Including Solid Or Liquid Transport Means Into Or Out Of A Compostor Patents (Class 435/290.4)
-
Publication number: 20100071429Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for the conditioning of organic residuals occurring, for example, in biogas systems, wherein a digestate materializes from the organic residuals as an intermediate product during biogas regeneration in a fermenter, the digestate being subjected to mechanical conditioning comprising at least one concentration step. Subsequent to the mechanical conditioning, a first part of the liquid digestate passes through an evaporation process for the production of a top dressing, and a second part of the concentrated digestate passes through a drying process for the production of base dressing, wherein a mass flow of the top dressing concentrate is fed to the partial flow of the base dressing production such that the base dressing is enriched upgraded. Due to this enrichment, the digestate can either be gasified for energy generation, or utilized as an organic agricultural fertilizer.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 4, 2008Publication date: March 25, 2010Inventor: Reinhart Von Nordenskjöld
-
Patent number: 7682813Abstract: An organic solid waste digester for producing methane from solid waste, the digester comprising a reactor vessel for holding solid waste, a sprinkler system for distributing water, bacteria, and nutrients over and through the solid waste, and a drainage system for capturing leachate that is then recirculated through the sprinkler system.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2006Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Assignee: Arrowhead Center, Inc.Inventors: Zohrab A. Samani, Adrian T. Hanson, Maritza Macias-Corral
-
Patent number: 7682821Abstract: The invention provides a device for growing genetically enhanced aquatic photoautotrophic organisms in a stable culture, causing said organisms to produce ethanol, and then separating, collecting, and removing the ethanol in situ.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2007Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Assignee: Algenol Biofuels Switzerland GmbHInventors: R. Paul Woods, Edward Legere, Benjamin Moll, Carlos Unamunzaga, Eulalia Mantecon
-
Publication number: 20100015689Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of composting and treating food waste by using wood chips and an apparatus therefor. The method and apparatus for the composting and treatment of food waste in accordance with the present invention can recycle food waste as an organic compost by using wood chips in an eco-friendly manner and convert effluents generated from said food waste into an effluent satisfying water quality suitable for discharging by a combined biological and chemical process. Therefore, the present invention can be effectively used for recycling and treating food waste.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 14, 2009Publication date: January 21, 2010Inventors: Wan Cheol Park, Tae Hyung Kim, Mi Ae Lee
-
Patent number: 7642090Abstract: Systems and methods for the generation of compost are provided. In one embodiment, the system for generating compost comprises a positively aerated floor, a semi gas and liquid impermeable compost cover sized to cover a compost biomass pile placed on the positively aerated floor, and a suction system positioned under or substantially close to the compost cover and generally near a top of the compost biomass pile, wherein the floor comprises a plurality of channels connected to at least one gas flow pipe installed below or above grade, wherein gas drawn by suction system at the top of the biomass compost pile maintains a negative pressure across the compost cover, thereby generating suction between the compost cover and the top of the compost biomass pile, and wherein the compost cover directs substantially all of the gas flow towards the suction system.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2007Date of Patent: January 5, 2010Assignee: Engineered Compost Systems, Inc.Inventors: Frederick Timothy O'Neill, Christopher J. Hibbard, Charles A. Krauter
-
Publication number: 20090305379Abstract: A manure mixture within an anaerobic digestion tank stratifies to form a liquid effluent layer and a sludge layer. Liquid effluent from the liquid effluent layer is withdrawn from the tank through a height adjustable valve. The height adjustable valve is adapted to automatically adjust the position of its intake end within the liquid effluent layer in response to the level of the sludge layer detected by a sludge meter located within the tank. Liquid effluent withdrawn from the tank is passed through a heat exchange system including at least one heat exchanger. Heat from the heat exchanger is transferred to the liquid effluent to produce heated liquid effluent. The heated liquid effluent is reintroduced back into the digestion tank such that the temperature of the manure mixture within the tank is maintained within a suitable temperature range for anaerobic digestion of the manure mixture.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2008Publication date: December 10, 2009Inventors: Matthew W. Johnson, Dennis J. Johnson
-
Publication number: 20090305390Abstract: A method is provided for processing waste and producing methane, in which a chamber is filled with waste, in which it undergoes anaerobic degradation. According to the method, a large chamber and a small chamber are filled respectively with slightly organic waste and highly organic waste, and a liquid fraction generated by the degradation of the waste in the large chamber is introduced into the small chamber. Also provided is an apparatus adapted to implement such a method.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 30, 2008Publication date: December 10, 2009Applicant: Veolia PropreteInventors: Jesus CACHO, Olivier CAUDART, Thomas LAGIER, Pascal PESLERBE, Vassilia VIGNERON
-
Publication number: 20090305377Abstract: A method for the continuous liquefying of organic solids in a fermenter, wherein an outwardly directed flow of solids is produced in a dammed-up liquid, the solids are added in the lower region of the fermenter and the solid fermentation residues are essentially collected and removed below the level of the dammed-up liquid.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2006Publication date: December 10, 2009Inventors: Jan Mumme, Bernd Linke, Rainer Toelle
-
Patent number: 7625749Abstract: A garden composter has a longitudinally extending cylindrical drum which is mounted to a support frame and can be rotated relative to the support frame about an axis of rotation of the drum. The drum has at least two load openings formed in a cylindrical wall portion between two end wall portions and removable closure caps for selectively closing the load openings. At least one partition divides the drum into a number of chambers disposed side by side along the longitudinal axis. Each chamber communicates with a respective load opening. The partition has a fixed portion coupled to the drum and a relatively movable portion. Each portion has at least one flow control partition opening and the movable portion can be moved so that its associated flow control partition opening may be selectively brought into and out of registration with corresponding flow control partition openings in the fixed portion.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2005Date of Patent: December 1, 2009Assignee: Sun-Mar CorporationInventor: Henric Sundberg
-
Publication number: 20090199608Abstract: There is disclosed a system and method for composting large amounts waste material comprising a predominant amount of compostable organic material, such as Source Separated Organic (SSO) material. The method comprises mixing the waste material with a bulking agent such as tree bark, removing larger inorganic material then compositing the remainder using compositing bacteria and forced air to promote composting. During its initial composting stages when the majority of noxious gasses, fumes and odours are generated the composting is carried out in an enclosed area and the gases removed and treated using a bio-filter. Once the compostable organic material has been adequately decomposed the bulking agent is removed along with any residual inorganic material and the composting process completed. In particular embodiment the bulking agent is recycled. There is also disclosed a method and device for mixing the waste material with the bulking agent.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2007Publication date: August 13, 2009Applicant: CONPOREC INCInventors: Carl Genois, Rolf Arneberg, Denis Potvin, Bernad Caron, Jose Scorsone
-
Publication number: 20090191613Abstract: The device and method invented provides a unique means to extract and multiply, by the millions, beneficial aerobic microbes found in compost and vermicompost to be applied to soil and plants in liquid form. This liquid has been named compost tea colloquially. Compared to many compost tea making devices being sold, the invented device is truly simple and can be dismantled and cleaned in under twenty minutes. Most of the parts are not glued and can be pulled apart. The device and method uses air pumps alone to actually circulate the water and can be used with or without a mesh extractor. This is achieved by the insertion of an air diffuser into the piping used, which infuses the water with oxygen while circulating the water, into either, an extractor containing compost or a body of water containing compost. Concurrently additional diffusers infuse the body of water with oxygen.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 19, 2009Publication date: July 30, 2009Inventor: Timothy James Wilson
-
Patent number: 7550292Abstract: A mobile, modular multi-chamber composting system for the composting of organic material includes a composting unit having a pair of adjacent composting chambers enclosed by sidewalls, a roof, and closure panels, with the chambers delimited by a separation panel, and the first chamber having a uni-directional tilting floor and the second chamber having a bi-directional tilting floor so that organic material can be placed in the first chamber and transferred to the second chamber to facilitate decomposition of the material. Hydraulic mechanisms are interconnected to each floor to facilitate the tilting of the floor and the transference of the material, and the second chamber can transfer the material back to the first chamber or expel the material from the unit or transfer the material to another adjoined composting unit.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2006Date of Patent: June 23, 2009Inventor: Roger Teixeira
-
Publication number: 20090145188Abstract: The present invention provides apparatus and methods for shortening the time needed to convert mixed pulp into unlimited use and relatively odor-free compost down from several weeks to several days, and for producing the compost without the need for a large or remote outdoor area. In addition, the process may be modified so as to improve the quality of the compost so that it is made more suitable for particular soil applications.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2007Publication date: June 11, 2009Inventor: Emmanuel G. Moya
-
Patent number: 7494803Abstract: An apparatus for bio-composting domestic waste from residential dwellings, comprised of a tank, a multi-chambered liner and a separator. Domestic waste influent enters one end of a sluice, which has ribs on its surface directing the influent onto the upper section of an inclined sieve. The inclined sieve is angled downward and is permeable. The influent waste flows down the inclined sieve, and free water drops downward through the sieve while separated waste solids slide off the lower edge of the inclined sieve. The multi-chambered liner is set inside the tank under its lid. The multi-chambered liner is partitioned into a first chamber running the length of the liner on one half its wide, which the other half its width is subdivided into a series of smaller sub-chambers running the length of the liner. The chambers are separated by permeable partitions. The walls of the liner are permeable, as well.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2005Date of Patent: February 24, 2009Inventor: Danny R. Smith
-
Publication number: 20080311640Abstract: Described herein are methods for producing chemical products by anaerobically fermenting a particular biomass using anaerobic bacteria. Such chemical products include hydrogen and other gases, acetic acid and other volatile organic acids, solvents, solids, and salts of volatile organic acids.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 27, 2006Publication date: December 18, 2008Inventors: Marion E. Cox, Jeremy N. McDonald, Laura M. Nondorf, Steven M. Cox
-
Patent number: 7449330Abstract: A bioreactor apparatus for processing waste, comprising a cylindrical pressure vessel having an inlet end and an exit end, an internally rotating main shaft having spaced apart ends, and a plurality of paddles and agitator bars attached to and extending radially from the shaft. At least some of the plurality of paddles and/or agitator bars extend radially outward from the shaft and form a helical spiral pattern when viewed from either of the spaced apart ends.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2002Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Assignee: Bouldin CorporationInventor: Floyd E. Bouldin
-
Patent number: 7445927Abstract: A 10,000 gallon sequencing batch reactor tank for the on-site bio-degradation of oily sludge. Bacteria already present in and adapted to oily sludge degrade the hydrocarbons found in oily sludge within two weeks from 20,000 ppm to less than 100 ppm. A degradation cycle requires 5 days. After five days a recirculation pump and aeration system are turned off and solids are allowed to settle to the bottom of the tank. An ultrafiltration unit connected to the tank requires approximately 16 hours to process the contents of the reactor tank.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2004Date of Patent: November 4, 2008Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Gerardo F. Maga, Frederick E. Goetz
-
Publication number: 20080254534Abstract: The invention relates to a device for the composting of biogenic materials, wherein material introduced at the top of a container as in FIG. 2b reaches a storage chamber (2) arranged below a reactor chamber (1) passing therethrough only by gravity with air introduction. Slide surfaces are provided which brake the downward material flow. Slide vanes (4), for example, can be used as slide surfaces and also other slide devices such as tubes, funnels, spheres and particular container shapes. The compost can be easily removed from the storage container by means of a shovel, or similar without the weight of the heap affecting the shovel. The otherwise necessary shifting of the heap in order to reach the mature compost on the floor is thus avoided. The heap is also vertically aerated over the whole surface thereof from bottom towards the top, the composting organisms are continually optimally supplied with air and optimal conversion rates of fresh biowaste to compost achieved.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 4, 2006Publication date: October 16, 2008Inventor: Reinhard Schmidl
-
Publication number: 20080216535Abstract: The invention concerns a novel method for purifying air and gasses, consisting of an optimized air ventilation slab, with its air ventilation pipes, air ventilation pipettes and air diffusion plugs; optionally a complementary cellular material enabling the material to be supported providing biofiltration, purification or treatment of air, and optionally a device for diffusing liquids and/or bacteria and/or enzymes, allowing the biofilter to act as the equivalent of a gas scrubbing tower.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 28, 2005Publication date: September 11, 2008Applicant: ACES ENVIRONMENTInventor: Philippe J. Thurot
-
Patent number: 7422894Abstract: Apparatus for use in a vermiculture plant, the apparatus including a treatment receptacle having a treatment Apparatus for use in a vermiculture plant which includes a treatment receptacle having a treatment chamber therein and a base upon which material within the treatment chamber is disposed. The receptacle is arranged so that when in use there is a space below the base. The apparatus further includes a harvester operable to extract material from the treatment chamber through the base and a collecting assembly including a flexible belt operatively connected to a rotatable drum so that it can be wound onto or drawn from the rotatable member. The belt is arranged so that it can adopt a collecting position when at least partially unwound from the rotatable member wherein it is positioned below the treatment chamber and harvester so that harvested material can be collected upon it and is operable so that when wound onto the rotatable member material thereon can be transferred to a discharge zone.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2003Date of Patent: September 9, 2008Assignee: Vermitech LimitedInventors: Simon James Tratt, Graham Shaun Ankers
-
Publication number: 20080153080Abstract: The invention provides a device for growing genetically enhanced aquatic photoautotrophic organisms in a stable culture, causing said organisms to produce ethanol, and then separating, collecting, and removing the ethanol in situ.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 30, 2007Publication date: June 26, 2008Applicant: ALGENOL BIOFUELS LIMITEDInventors: R. Paul Woods, Edward Legere, Benjamin Moll, Carlos Unamunzaga, Eulalia Mantecon
-
Patent number: 7390651Abstract: A serum-free C3A clonal cell line and methods for generating the same are provided. The C3A cell line has a reduced doubling time in serum-free medium compared to a corresponding C3A cell line from which it is derived. Methods using the cells of the serum-free C3A clonal cell line for the production, expression and recovery of harvestable polypeptides, screening compounds for metabolic activity, studying enteric disease and for use in a bio-artificial liver device are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2003Date of Patent: June 24, 2008Assignee: Vital Therapies, Inc.Inventors: Dennis Triglia, Anthony Purchio
-
Publication number: 20080124791Abstract: A device and method for collecting organic waste is disclosed. The invention comprises a biodegradable bag that hangs inside a rigid container covered by a perforated lid. A filter lines the inside of the lid which rests on the rim of the rigid container. The biodegradable bag is secured onto an annular flange by means of a retaining band. The flange, together with the biodegradable bag, sits on the shoulder on the inside of the rigid container so that the biodegradable bag hangs from the flange leaving a cavity inside the rigid container between the biodegradable bag and the walls of the rigid container. The flange has a handle to pull the biodegradable bag out. The biodegradable bag aids in composting of the organic waste as it is permeable to both air and water and provides the largest possible surface area of any waste container to aerate the organic waste.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 27, 2006Publication date: May 29, 2008Inventor: Paul A. Bucci
-
Publication number: 20080085548Abstract: The invention provides a transporting arrangement for transporting biomass (22), in particular biomass from energy crops, in a fermenter (2) for generating biogas, it being possible for large-scale fermenters (2) to be operated continuously, in accordance with the principle of the methanation of solid matter, by means of this transporting arrangement. The transporting arrangement (20) comprises a plurality of transporting cushions (24-i) which are arranged one beside the other and have liquid pumped into them, and discharged again, one after the other. This generates a wave movement which transports the biomass (22) through the fermenter (2) from a loading region (10) to an unloading region (14). The invention also specifies a large-scale fermenter having such a transporting arrangement (20).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 4, 2005Publication date: April 10, 2008Applicant: Bekon Energy Technologies GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Peter Lutz
-
Publication number: 20080070294Abstract: A mobile, modular multi-chamber composting system for the composting of organic material includes a composting unit having a pair of adjacent composting chambers enclosed by sidewalls, a roof, and closure panels, with the chambers delimited by a separation panel, and the first chamber having a uni-directional tilting floor and the second chamber having a bi-directional tilting floor so that organic material can be placed in the first chamber and transferred to the second chamber to facilitate decomposition of the material. Hydraulic mechanisms are interconnected to each floor to facilitate the tilting of the floor and the transference of the material, and the second chamber can transfer the material back to the first chamber or expel the material from the unit or transfer the material to another adjoined composting unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 15, 2006Publication date: March 20, 2008Inventor: Roger Teixeira
-
Publication number: 20080050806Abstract: An aerobic waste treatment system, such as a composting system, comprising a movable push wall (20). The movable push wall (20) is preferably part of a container (10). In use of the aerobic waste treatment system, waste is heaped against the movable push wall (20) to build a waste heap (60). The waste is coverable with a removable flexible enclosure. The removable flexible enclosure is preferably a liquid-tight but gas-permeable cover (70). A deployment apparatus (30) for covering or uncovering the waste heap (60) with the removable flexible enclosure can facilitate the handling of the removable flexible enclosure.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2005Publication date: February 28, 2008Applicant: COMP-ANY GMBHInventors: Markus Binding, Jan Gressmann
-
Patent number: 7329425Abstract: An apparatus and process for naturally recycling poultry carcasses for use as a nutritional supplement, the apparatus generally consists of four modules: an enzymatic digest medium mixing assembly that self adjusts for pH; a mobile grinding assembly mounted on a truck trailer; a digesting and emulsifying assembly which includes a heated tank and separator; and a drying system. Carcasses are loaded into the grinder, and the ground carcasses are pumped into a storage tank with the enzymatic digest medium to produce a protein soluble mixture. The particle size of this mixture is then further reduced, and transported to a centralized and stationary processing plant for digesting and emulsifying. The remaining emulsified proteins are then dried. The resulting pellet-like pieces are uniformly sized for packaging.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2003Date of Patent: February 12, 2008Assignee: Naturally Recycled Proteins, LLCInventors: Jonathan Scott Darling, Don Scott Darling
-
Publication number: 20080032395Abstract: A device for producing compost and heat from composting, comprises a container for creating, containing, and transferring the compost and the heat. The container comprises a hatch for transferring feedstock into the container and for transferring the compost out of the container, and also comprises conduit bearing a heat-transfer medium, such as water, for transferring the heat out of the compost. The device also comprises wheels for supporting the container in a position to facilitate use of the hatch and for rotating the container.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 2, 2007Publication date: February 7, 2008Inventor: Stephen Goodman
-
Patent number: 7241615Abstract: This invention relates to systems, apparatus and methods of operating a wet combustion engine and apparatus therefore, capable of biologically burning fuels within a wet combustion chamber within a bioproactor system, including but not limited to, organic carbon containing materials especially biological, hazardous or toxic waste contaminants, in an environmentally sensitive manner. An integrated computer control system that, proactively and pre-emptively, uses feedback from bio-sensors, to monitor, record and control applicable components of the bio-system, to optimize, replenish, and sustain exponential growth of selected life-forms, including but not limited to microbes such as bacteria. In the intake cycle, a suitably prepared fuel mixture is metered into the wet combustion diffusion separation membrane chamber located within the life-support chamber of the bioproactor. In the combustion cycle, diffusion and combustion rates are monitored and timed.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2002Date of Patent: July 10, 2007Inventor: Thomas W. St. Lawrence
-
Patent number: 7226778Abstract: An apparatus and process for naturally recycling poultry carcasses for use as a nutritional supplement, the apparatus generally consists of four modules: an enzymatic digest medium mixing assembly that self adjusts for pH; a mobile grinding assembly mounted on a truck trailer; a digesting and emulsifying assembly which includes a heated tank and separator; and a drying system. Carcasses are loaded into the grinder, and the ground carcasses are pumped into a storage tank with the enzymatic digest medium to produce a protein soluble mixture. The particle size of this mixture is then further reduced, and transported to a centralized and stationary processing plant for digesting and emulsifying. The remaining emulsified proteins are then dried. The resulting pellet-like pieces are uniformly sized for packaging.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2003Date of Patent: June 5, 2007Assignee: Naturally Recycled Proteins , LLCInventors: Jonathan Scott Darling, Don Scott Darling
-
Patent number: 7179642Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for anaerobic digestion of high-solids waste are provided. The methods may include and the apparatuses may be used for moving the solid waste in a corkscrew-like fashion through a closed container. The method may further include moving the high-solids waste into contact with a heating device to facilitate the corkscrew-like movement. Other methods and apparatuses may use at least one of a partition and a conduit from which liquid or gas is discharged.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2003Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: GHD, Inc.Inventor: Stephen W. Dvorak
-
Patent number: 7160713Abstract: Method and apparatus for biologically oxidizing organic matter. Finely powdered organic matter is suplied into the top end of an upright, high reaction vessel (1). The vessel (1) has been filled up substantially completely by small balls, on the surfaces of which the matter to be oxidized is present in thin layers. By means of a conveyor (6) outside the vessel, the balls are transferred uppwards, whereby the balls in the reaction vessel (1) flow downwrds. Oxidizing air is blown uppwrds against the flow of balls, whereby in the upper section of the vessel, drying takes place in the first instance and then is formed an oxidizing zone automatically by microbial activity in a section, wherein the best oxidizing conditions are prevailing. Exhaust air is cleaned by means of ionic cleaners (14) and singlet oxygen generators (27) and oxidized matter is recovered from the bottom end of the reaction vessel.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2002Date of Patent: January 9, 2007Inventor: Hannu L. Suominen
-
Patent number: 7150987Abstract: An organic waste processing method and device makes a mass disposal and 24 hours continuous processing possible, and can largely cut down facility and processing costs. It uses a number of roughly cut-end inverted cone shaped processing tanks 3, 3A, 3B, and 3C aligned serially, a motor 17 installed on the bottom of each processing tank, a rotating shaft 19 that rotates by motor 17 drive set up passing through the top and bottom parts inside each processing tank, and stirring blades 21, attached on rotating shaft 19, that mix aerobic microorganism 1 and organic waste 2 to put in more than capacity amount of organic waste 2 into the upstream processing tank 3, have a part of organic waste 2 transport from outlet 14 at upper peripheral wall of processing tank 3 to inlet 9 at the top of processing tank 3A placed adjacently and downstream, by centrifugal force of stirring blades 21.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2001Date of Patent: December 19, 2006Assignee: Japan Life Center, Inc.Inventor: Yasuichi Ueda
-
Patent number: 7138271Abstract: A continuous composter for continuously processing organic waste material from a generally heterogeneous state into a generally homogenous state. The composter includes a container rotatably mounted on a support frame about its longitudinal axis that defines an inner chamber containing an amount of the heterogeneous waste material for continuous circulation therein. An agitator located within the inner chamber is rotatably mounted on fixed end walls about its own longitudinal axis that is offset relative to the container axis. The agitator is located to selectively receive the circulated waste material from the rotating container, to separate the heterogeneous waste material into the homogenous waste material, and to aerate the homogenous waste material by projecting it within the chamber. Both the container and the agitator rotates in a same direction at a relatively slow and fast rotational speed respectively.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2003Date of Patent: November 21, 2006Assignee: 9087-7374 Quebec Inc.Inventor: Jean-Pierre Pratte
-
Patent number: 7078229Abstract: This invention provides a waste-processing system capable of processing high-solids wastes such as manure. This invention provides a compact U-shaped digester that allows for recycling of activated sludge to improve the efficiency of the process. Efficiency is also improved through a sludge heating design that creates a current in the digester and efficiently heats the sludge. A composter is provided to further process the sludge through aerobic digestion to create usable fertilizer. Finally, one embodiment provides a turbine that is fueled by biological gases from the digester to generate heat and electricity to be used by the system.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2002Date of Patent: July 18, 2006Assignee: GHD, Inc.Inventor: Stephen W. Dvorak
-
Patent number: 7052902Abstract: A continuously operational biological reactor for the aerobic processing of animal waste into chemically free fertilizer includes an inner drum and an outer drum coaxially mounted on a horizontal center shaft with the inner annular surface of each drum including conveyor threads with the angularity of the conveyor threads being opposite each other so that the animal waste material can be conveyed down the inner drum and then back up the outer drum for processing into chemically free fertilizer. The biological reactor will include a hopper for receiving the material, a dewatering unit for material compression and preheater, and a mixer for introducing air and microbes to facilitate the processing. The center shaft includes instrumentation passageways for monitoring and control of the process and air flow passageways for diluting and discharging volatile substances such as methane.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2003Date of Patent: May 30, 2006Inventor: Russell Holt Miller
-
Patent number: 6982167Abstract: The present invention describes all apparatus for making a foliar spray from a liquid and a particulate matter. The apparatus consists of a non-porous liquid receptacle, a basket for holding the particulate matter, intake means for transporting air from a blower to a manifold means for aerating the liquid and the particulate matter, and a blower for supplying the air. The liquid receptacle is typically a substantially horizontal, rectangular tank having a flat bottom and the manifold means includes a selected number of diffuser arms, the number of diffuser arms selected to cover a substantial portion of the area of the bottom surface of the liquid receptacle and is selectively proportionate to the volume of the receptacle. The manifold means may be easily removed from the liquid receptacle by means of a quick-disconnect coupler for ease of cleaning the liquid receptacle once the foliar liquid is removed from the liquid receptacle via outlet means.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2002Date of Patent: January 3, 2006Inventors: George E. Hahn, Carole Eddington, James Eddington
-
Patent number: 6921661Abstract: A composting device for composting organic matter, includes a hollow container having a bottom end, a top end and at least one sidewall extending therebetween. The top end includes a charge opening therein for adding organic matter. The container also includes a discharge opening for proximal the bottom end for removing compost matter. A removable top cover for cooperating with the top end of the hollow container, covers the charge opening. The top cover is removable to expose the charge opening and includes connection means. An ornament including a corresponding complementary connection means, the complementary connection means cooperating with the connection means of the top cover, for mounting the ornament on the top cover.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2003Date of Patent: July 26, 2005Assignee: Ideas That Grow Inc.Inventors: Jayne Nagy, Kathy Rayburn, James Kirby Rayburn, Richard Paul Morawietz
-
Patent number: 6887692Abstract: A method for hydrogen production from biodegradable feedstocks in which a feedstock having at least one biodegradable solid is introduced into a first stage anaerobic bioreactor operating at thermophilic conditions to form a liquid effluent which includes fatty acids. The liquid effluent is transferred through a plurality of hollow semipermeable fibers disposed in a second stage anaerobic bioreactor having a light transmitting wall, which hollow semipermeable fibers have an outer surface coated with a biofilm of photosynthetic bacteria, which photosynthetic bacteria, using the nutrients in the hollow fibers and the incoming light, generates hydrogen.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2002Date of Patent: May 3, 2005Assignee: Gas Technology InstituteInventor: James Robert Paterek
-
Publication number: 20040265993Abstract: An apparatus and process for naturally recycling poultry carcasses for use as a nutritional supplement, the apparatus generally consists of four modules: an enzymatic digest medium mixing assembly that self adjusts for pH; a mobile grinding assembly mounted on a truck trailer; a digesting and emulsifying assembly which includes a heated tank and separator; and a drying system. Carcasses are loaded into the grinder, and the ground carcasses are pumped into a storage tank with the enzymatic digest medium to produce a protein soluble mixture. The particle size of this mixture is then further reduced, and transported to a centralized and stationary processing plant for digesting and emulsifying. The remaining emulsified proteins are then dried. The resulting pellet-like pieces are uniformly sized for packaging.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2003Publication date: December 30, 2004Inventors: Jonathan Scott Darling, Don Scott Darling
-
Publication number: 20040224399Abstract: A recycle soil manufacturing apparatus is provided enabling paper/wood chips of finely cut paper and wooden materials to be efficiently changed to soil. A fermenter (1) comprises a paper/wood chip feeder (2) and a fermenter body (10). The paper/wood chip feeder (2) comprises a paper/wood chip supply port (3), a leaf mold supply port (4) and a helical conveyor (5). The fermenter body (10) comprises a helical conveyor (11) transferring paper/wood chips and leaf mold, heaters (14), water sprayers (15), opening/closing type ceiling portions (16) and ventilating fans (17).Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2003Publication date: November 11, 2004Inventor: Matsuro Bundo
-
Publication number: 20040172996Abstract: An apparatus of continuous type for producing matured compost-like material comprises: a vertical vessel 1 which is provided at an upper side thereof with an inlet 2 for organic waste and provided at a lower side thereof with an outlet 3 for the material treated with heat; heating panel(s) 4 for heating the material which is disposed within the vessel 1 in multi-stage form or spiral form; and moving means for moving the material within the vessel 1 from the inlet 2 toward the outlet 3. The material within the vessel 1 is heated and dried and is further treated with heat at temperature of 100-200° C., thereby continuously producing compost-like material.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2004Publication date: September 9, 2004Applicant: KURITA WATER INDUSTRIES LTD.Inventor: Kensuke Matsui
-
Publication number: 20040172878Abstract: The method according to the invention concerns an anaerobic conversion of biomass into biogas in separated processes of hydrolysis and methane fermentation of biomass by means of methane mesophile, thermophile and psychrophile bacteria, contained in returned reflux. Cleaned biogas undergoes decomposition into methane and carbon dioxide. From part of methane and biogas standard gas fuel is produced, used for the engine of a current generating unit and a thermoregenerative cell generating electrical energy and heat. The system according to the invention consists of a system of preparation of biomass (1) connected to a hydrolyser (2) and then to a series system of fermentation tanks and a composter (1), which co-operates with a system of returning and enriching reflux (4). A tank for raw biogas (5) is connected to a system for cleaning biogas (6) and then to a tank for cleaned biogas (7) connected to a system of biogas decomposition (8) and a gas mixer (11).Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2004Publication date: September 9, 2004Inventors: Adam Krylowicz, Kazimierz Chrzanowski, Janusz Usidus
-
Patent number: 6783975Abstract: The present invention is a device and method for efficient composting of organic matter using a low-cost composting structure and high efficiency methods. A composting container incorporates rigid insulated panels to form an insulated composting container of a generally cylindrical shape with polygonal cross-section. The insulated panels provide high thermal efficiency at low cost to help maintain composting temperatures. A rigid frame supports the panels and allows the container to be rotated. An internal manifold or plenum supplies air while the container is stationary or rotating. Rotation in various embodiments is effected by motor driven rollers bearing on external hoops integrated to the container support frame. In preferred methods, the container is rotated at rates slower than one revolution per minute as air is introduced.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2003Date of Patent: August 31, 2004Inventor: Harry N. Windle
-
Patent number: 6780637Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and system of system for efficiently bio-converting putrescent wastes to a more usable form. The present “domestic” unit does not utilize a motor nor does in contend any moving parts. Instead, the domestic unit generally comprises a generally rounded container with two small ramps on the inside of the container. The two ramps begin at the bottom of the container and spiral up to the top of the container, where they adjoin a discharge pipe. In operation, the putrescent waste is deposited into the domestic unit container. Mature larvae have only one avenue of escape from the putrescent waste, up the ramps and into discharge pipe and onto collection tubes where the larvae are collected and processed. When the container fills up with larval residue, the larvae are removed from the container, the container is emptied of residue, and the larvae are put back into the container.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2002Date of Patent: August 24, 2004Inventor: Paul A. Olivier
-
Publication number: 20040147013Abstract: A continuous composter for continuously processing organic waste material from a generally heterogeneous state into a generally homogenous state. The composter includes a container rotatably mounted on a support frame about its longitudinal axis that defines an inner chamber containing an amount of the heterogeneous waste material for continuous circulation therein. An agitator located within the inner chamber is rotatably mounted on fixed end walls about its own longitudinal axis that is offset relative to the container axis. The agitator is located to selectively receive the circulated waste material from the rotating container, to separate the heterogeneous waste material into the homogenous waste material, and to aerate the homogenous waste material by projecting it within the chamber. Both the container and the agitator rotates in a same direction at a relatively slow and fast rotational speed respectively.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 14, 2003Publication date: July 29, 2004Inventor: Jean-Pierre Pratte
-
Patent number: 6758880Abstract: A method of disposing materials such as pet waste. First, an assembly is provided that has a container; a fitting for accepting and retaining a garden hose; a pressure nozzle for receiving water from the fitting and expressing the water under pressure; and a nozzle-retaining apparatus oriented so that the water expressed is directed into the container at an angle adapted to produce a churning motion within the container. Biodegradable material is placed into the container and the insertive coupler of a standard garden hose is attached into the fitting. Finally the faucet is turned on to cause water to flow through the hose and out the nozzle, thereby watering and stirring and fragmenting the biodegradable material while the operator remains at a distance far enough away from the container to avoid the unpleasant odor that is emitted from the container by virtue of the watering and stirring and fragmenting.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2002Date of Patent: July 6, 2004Inventor: Steven E. Rhodes
-
Publication number: 20040123637Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for composting organic material, in which method organic material is transported to a bioreactor (1) where it is mixed and where material for regulating the oxygen content and bacteria and/or enzymes for agitation of composting process are added to it, and where organic material may compost, after which the composted material is removed outside the bioreactor to be stabilized. The invention also relates to a device for composting organic material, which device includes a bioreactor (1) with at least one filling and emptying opening (12, 13, 17) in order to fill and empty the bioreactor, and a transporting device (2) mixing the material inside the bioreactor (1) in order to transport the organic material to be composted and to mix it inside the bioreactor.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 17, 2004Publication date: July 1, 2004Inventor: Claus Rostrom
-
Publication number: 20040087011Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for anaerobic digestion of high-solids waste are provided. The methods may include and the apparatuses may be used for moving the solid waste in a corkscrew-like fashion through a closed container. The method may further include moving the high-solids waste into contact with a heating device to facilitate the corkscrew-like movement. Other methods and apparatuses may use at least one of a partition and a conduit from which liquid or gas is discharged.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 27, 2003Publication date: May 6, 2004Applicant: GHD, Inc.Inventor: Stephen W. Dvorak
-
Patent number: 6727090Abstract: An apparatus for producing compost tea wherein compost material is passed through a separator housing in such a manner so that microorganisms on the compost material is washed from the compost material and is delivered to a separator tank positioned below the separator housing. The wash water from the separator tank is recirculated through the apparatus until the desired concentration of microorganisms has been achieved.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2002Date of Patent: April 27, 2004Inventor: Dennis R. Hronek