With Recording Or Signaling Condition Patents (Class 95/25)
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Patent number: 7258711Abstract: A system for collecting and disposing of liquid medical waste includes a fluid collection cart and a draining and cleaning station. The fluid collection cart includes a pair of containers, each of which includes a draining port and a cap. Each cap includes an outer portion having a flushing port and a bore formed therein and an inner portion having vacuum and patient ports formed therein. The inner cap portion is disposable and removably positioned within the bore of the outer cap portion. Liquid level detectors also communicate with each container. The cart also includes a regulator so a low vacuum level may be pulled on one of the containers while a full vacuum level is pulled on the other container. Fluids are collected in the containers via suction tubes connected to the patient ports. The flushing and drain ports of the containers are connected to corresponding flushing and drain connectors on the station when the containers are full so that they may be drained and flushed.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2004Date of Patent: August 21, 2007Assignee: Dornock Medical Systems, Inc.Inventors: James L. Dunn, Lawrence E. Guerra
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Patent number: 7153347Abstract: The present invention provides device and method for controlling air cleaning operation, in which an air conditioner with an air cleaner is made to clean air effectively proper to different pollutants. The device includes a memory having a plurality of operation modes set and stored therein for controlling operation of a fan proper to characteristics of air pollution sources, first means for selecting one of the plurality of operation modes stored in the memory, and a controlling part for controlling the fan according to a control program of the operation mode. The method includes the steps of selecting one of a plurality of operation modes, changing setting of an operation time period of the selected operation mode, reading the selected operation mode from the memory, and changing the operation time period of the operation mode to the set value, and controlling the fan according to the value of the changed operation time period and the value of the operation mode read from the memory.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2003Date of Patent: December 26, 2006Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Tae Wook Kang, Jae Keun Lee, Ju Ho Ock
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Patent number: 7101420Abstract: Self cleaning air filtration machine and a method for using same comprising; a filter with a motor driven belt or disk or counter rotating disks that are perforated, a spray bar, a recirculation pump and supply line, a wet tank, a ultrasonic transducer, ultraviolet submersible bulbs, a water fill port, a liquid level sensor, a liquid and sediment drain port, and a power source. A preferred embodiment includes a subsonic transducer on the wet tank. A preferred embodiment includes a air diffuser, a toxic and noxious gas detection and recognition and radiation detection with automatic safety shut down and audible and visual alarm, a ultraviolet saturation chamber. A preferred embodiment includes a secondary wet filter, a secondary air diffuser, a secondary ultraviolet saturation chamber. A preferred embodiment includes a inline dryer assembly.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2004Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Inventors: Adria Valley Anne Nelson Ellis, Rob Nelson
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Patent number: 7097689Abstract: A process and system for purifying an impure gas to produce a purified gas in a gas purification system and protecting the system from damage by a) passing a portion of a first gas stream into a reactor vessel, which exits as a second purified gas stream; b) combining a portion of the second purified gas stream with another portion of the first gas stream to form a combined gas stream; and c) passing the combined gas stream into a sensing device to regulate the flow of the first and second gas streams into the reactor vessel.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2002Date of Patent: August 29, 2006Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.Inventors: John Fredric Billingham, Jerry Michael Mahl
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Patent number: 7048775Abstract: The invention concerns a device and method for monitoring the integrity of filtering installations consisting of a filter housing (1) designed to perform integrity tests and for filtration, equipped with a plurality of filter elements (2, 3) and an electronic testing and monitoring unit (4) designed for monitoring and performing integrity tests, said filter elements (2, 3) having each a storage element and a communicating part (7) being connected to the monitoring and testing unit arranged in the filtering housing, whereon data of said electronic storage elements can be read.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2002Date of Patent: May 23, 2006Assignee: Sartorius AGInventors: Maik Jornitz, Reinhard Baumfalk, Ralf Lausch, Christian Oldendorf, Oscar-Werner Reif
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Patent number: 7025802Abstract: A filter maintenance monitoring method and a filter maintained thereby are provided, by which re-use of the filter by wash is smoothly and efficiently promoted. The filter includes that loaned from a filter owner to a filter user. The filter used for a predetermined purpose and having clogging of filter cloth by filtering dust in air is recovered to be washed for re-use. History data base stored in a storage portion of a computer is renewed based on wash history of the recovered filter. Then, re-use of the filter is decided based on the renewed history data base. Changes in the filter by damages or deterioration corresponding to the wash history are automatically grasped. Thereby, an efficient filter maintenance is realized.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2002Date of Patent: April 11, 2006Assignee: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Kazuya Ushioda, Yoshiyuki Doi, Toyosei Aota
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Patent number: 6984256Abstract: An operational state of a system for filtering imaging by-products from an airflow is monitored by comparing a measurement of the flow rate of the airflow to a threshold. Additionally, an operational state of a filtration element is monitored by accumulating a count indicative of the remaining capacity of the filtration element in a memory device coupled to the filtration element.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2003Date of Patent: January 10, 2006Assignee: Creo Inc.Inventors: Anton W. Lamprecht, Dean Laurent Leonard, William John Dall, David Bruce Burgess, Alexander Kheifets
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Patent number: 6979361Abstract: An end of service life indicator (ESLI) device for a fluid filter is included on the filter and visually indicates when the life of the filter has expired. The ESLI indicates the depletion of the filter by changing the color density on a surface of the device to a color density having a well distinguishable contrasting pattern that is easily recognizable even by individuals who are color-blind. The contrasting pattern may express text indicative of the state of the filter.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2003Date of Patent: December 27, 2005Inventors: Gueorgui Milev Mihayiov, Kirollos Salama Kirollos, Tesfa-Michael Tekleab
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Patent number: 6858062Abstract: A residual gas removing device for a gas supply apparatus in a semiconductor fabricating facility, includes a low stress valve disposed between a mass flow controller and a chamber. The low stress valve alternately supplies or cuts off a gas from the mass flow controller to the chamber. A WF6 gas removing apparatus is in flow communication with a gas inlet line of the low stress valve to remove a residual WF6 gas in the gas inlet line, before proceeding with a subsequent deposition step.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2002Date of Patent: February 22, 2005Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Chul-Hwan Choi, Jin-Ho Jeon, Yong-Gab Kim, Jong-Seung Yi, Min-Woo Lee, Kyung-Tae Kim, Chan-Hyung Cho
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Patent number: 6827760Abstract: A system and method for passive hypoxic training provides a person with a low oxygen (hypoxic) environment. Oxygen sensors automatically monitor and control oxygen levels to maintain the altitude desired. CO2 levels are monitored and CO2 is eliminated so that the air a person breathes is substantially clean and fresh. Exposure to a high altitude environment produces physiological changes in a person's body, which becomes more efficient at absorbing and transporting oxygen. Using the present method and system, athletes obtain the benefits of sleeping at a simulated altitude in the user's own home for six to twelve hours, rather than traditional altitude therapies in which athletes spend two to three weeks at high altitude before an athletic competition to obtain similar benefits. This system allows for “live high train low” altitude training that has been shown in controlled studies to provide superior benefits to “live high train high” training.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2003Date of Patent: December 7, 2004Assignee: Colorado Altitude Training LLCInventors: Lawrence M. Kutt, Mark Jellison, Joseph Boatman
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Patent number: 6814784Abstract: To provide a method of handling DPF capable of ensuring an expected value of a catching function of reclaimed DPF and eliminating waste of useful metals included by DPF, DPF(1) mounted to a diesel engine for catching PM included in exhaust is reclaimed until being brought into a nonreusable state and remounted to the engine by at least once and in remounting, the DPF(1) is mounted such that the DPF(1) is mounted in the direction reverse to a direction of mounting at a preceding time.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2002Date of Patent: November 9, 2004Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventor: Fumihide Satou
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Patent number: 6681648Abstract: Gas separation membranes, especially meniscus-shaped membranes for gas separations are disclosed together with the use of such meniscus-shaped membranes for applications such as thermal gas valves, pre-concentration of a gas stream, and selective pre-screening of a gas stream. In addition, a rapid screening system for simultaneously screening polymer materials for effectiveness in gas separation is provided.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2001Date of Patent: January 27, 2004Assignee: The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventors: Robert C. Dye, Betty Jorgensen, David R. Pesiri
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Patent number: 6660070Abstract: An air purifier includes a cabinet, an electrically driven fan, a replaceable filter element, and an air quality sensor. A display provides a visual indication of the air quality condition. A microprocessor is programmed to control the speed of the fan automatically according to the air quality condition. The microprocessor also computes when the filter element must be changed by totalling the time of operation and its speed (which equals air quality) so that for example the filter element will be changed more often (used for less aggregate time) when the air purifier is operated in a poor quality environment.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Simatelex Manufactory Co., Ltd.Inventors: Chi Cheung Chung, Stephen Wai-Kin Chan, Wing-Chung Li
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Publication number: 20030205129Abstract: A system and a method for controlling or reducing moisture levels in building cavities. Desiccant is used in combination with various containers for placing the desiccant into building cavities to control levels of moisture and mold in the cavities.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 12, 2002Publication date: November 6, 2003Inventors: Shane A. Kretsinger, Jack Lee Meyer
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Publication number: 20030200786Abstract: Passive and active methods for anticipating problems with electrical wiring are provided. An insulative material in contact with an electrical conductor has at least one impurity that is impregnated in the insulative material and/or disposed thereon. An environment around the electrical conductor is monitored for the presence or the level of the impurity(ies) emanating from the insulative material in the form of a gaseous effluent. An alarm signal is generated when a predetermined level of the gaseous effluent is detected.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 21, 2003Publication date: October 30, 2003Applicant: U.S.A. as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventors: William T. Yost, K. Elliott Cramer, Daniel F. Perey
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Patent number: 6565624Abstract: A system and method for passive hypoxic training provides a person with a low oxygen (hypoxic) environment. Oxygen sensors automatically monitor and control oxygen levels to maintain the altitude desired. CO2 levels are monitored and CO2 is eliminated so that the air a person breathes is substantially clean and fresh. Exposure to a high altitude environment produces physiological changes in a person's body, which becomes more efficient at absorbing and transporting oxygen. Using the present method and system, athletes obtain the benefits of sleeping at a simulated altitude in the user's own home for six to twelve hours, rather than traditional altitude therapies in which athletes spend two to three weeks at high altitude before an athletic competition to obtain similar benefits. This system allows for “live high train low” altitude training that has been shown in controlled studies to provide superior benefits to “live high train high” training.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2001Date of Patent: May 20, 2003Assignee: Colorado Altitude Training LLCInventors: Lawrence M. Kutt, Mark Jellison, Joseph Boatman
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Patent number: 6558444Abstract: An intake filter (1) or a coalescing filter (4) of a compressor or vacuum pump, or an in-line filter has its identity recorded in a transponder (50, 54), memory chip or other device such as a magnetic or magnetostrictive strip. Interrogation e.g. by means of antennae (52, 56) enables a control unit (55) to verify the identity of the filter and to store the result in memory (57). A record can therefore be maintained of whether approved filters are being used and whether they are exchanged at approved intervals.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2001Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Assignee: PSI Global Ltd.Inventor: Susanne Phyllis Hunter
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Publication number: 20030079605Abstract: To provide a method of handling DPF capable of ensuring an expected value of a catching function of reclaimed DPF and eliminating waste of useful metals included by DPF, DPF(1) mounted to a diesel engine for catching PM included in exhaust is reclaimed until being brought into a nonreusable state and remounted to the engine by at least once and in remounting, the DPF(1) is mounted such that the DPF(1) is mounted in the direction reverse to a direction of mounting at a preceding time.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 17, 2002Publication date: May 1, 2003Inventor: Fumihide Satou
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Publication number: 20030070544Abstract: A system and method for determining the condition of a filter in a forced air filtration system includes a blower motor and a fan mounted for rotation with an output shaft of the blower motor. A load sensor is operably connected to the blower motor for monitoring an electric load of the motor. As the filter becomes increasingly laden with airborne particles, the electric load changes. The load sensor generates a load value dependent on the electric load of the motor which is compared to a predetermined value. When the load value reaches the predetermined value, a signal is generated indicative of a filter change condition.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 15, 2002Publication date: April 17, 2003Applicant: Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex, Inc.Inventors: Patrick T. Mulvaney, Marron Hak
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Patent number: 6533839Abstract: There is provided a three-dimensional adsorbent particle filter having a width, depth and at least one exposed outer face. The filter comprises darkly colored adsorbent particles having an L-value of 60 or less, preferably 20 or less providing a dark contrasting background. Reflective particles are present at the outer face of the filter at levels that allow a user to visually differentiate the filter based on the contrast between the reflective particles and the dark adsorbent particles. Different reflective particle or combinations of reflective particles are used with different filters to differentiate the filters each from the other.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2001Date of Patent: March 18, 2003Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: Jason D. Janisch, Robert M. Swinehart
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Patent number: 6491828Abstract: A contaminated aqueous composition is withdrawn from a groundwater extraction well and the groundwater is treated in a pump and treat system to remove a contaminant. The treating of the aqueous composition is monitored from a location remote from the groundwater extraction well and the treating is adjusted to remove a contaminant in accordance with the monitoring. A system to treat a contaminated aqueous composition comprises a capture zone to intercept a contaminated aqueous composition and a surface pump and treat system to receive and treat the contaminated aqueous composition from the capture zone. The system also includes a sensor that senses a contaminant in the contaminated aqueous composition and a monitor to receive information concerning the contaminant from the sensor and to consequently control the pump and treat system to treat the contaminated aqueous composition. The monitor is situated at a location remote from the pump and treat system.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2000Date of Patent: December 10, 2002Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Timothy Mark Sivavec, Patricia Denise Mackenzie, Sunita Singh Baghel, Joseph James Salvo
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Patent number: 6391102Abstract: A filtration system for trapping airborne contaminants as exemplified in evacuating smoke generated during a surgical procedure wherein operation efficiency thereof is automatically reported in relation to filter structure cumulative use time and cumulative airflow volume. In a first embodiment a system processor correlates cumulative vacuum pump motor speed, operation duration, and air pressure difference measurements over an airflow filter path into a cumulative value and automatically compares that value to a plurality of known pre-determined correlated values to thereby provide filter life expectancy which is conveyed to a memory device of the filter structure for retention and. conveyance for display. In a second embodiment a self-contained microprocessor and memory device of the filter structure is in communication with the system processor to receive, store, and send filter structure time-duration operability data which is sent to a data display site for display.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2000Date of Patent: May 21, 2002Assignee: Stackhouse, Inc.Inventors: Steven A. Bodden, Johann M. Kreutzer
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Patent number: 6338823Abstract: A gas chromatograph has a pressure sensor measuring a pressure in a sample introduction part, a flow control valve controlling carrier gas flow rate, a flow sensor measuring a flow rate of the carrier gas, a split flow path exhausting part of a carrier gas and sample from the introduction part, an exhaust valve placed in the sprit flow path, and a monitor screen. The controller controls the flow control valve to flow the carrier gas at the designated flow rate into the introduction part, reads an output of the pressure sensor after making the exhaust valve fully open, calculates a flow path resistance of the filter by using an output of the pressure sensor and a flow path resistance of the chromatographic column, and controls the monitor screen to display an indication for exchanging the filter when the calculated resistance reaches the preset value corresponding to a state in which the filter is stuffed.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 1999Date of Patent: January 15, 2002Assignee: Shimadzu CorporationInventor: Masanao Furukawa
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Patent number: 6273935Abstract: An apparatus and a method for trapping a toxic gas contained in an exhaust gas from a process chamber are disclosed. In the apparatus, two toxic gas traps are provided which are connected in series with a toxic gas sensor provided thereinbetween and in fluid communication with the two traps. When toxic gas is detected by the toxic gas sensor, i.e., an indication that the first toxic gas trap is fully consumed, the second toxic gas trap is used to replace the first toxic gas trap, while a new toxic gas trap is installed as the second toxic gas trap. The present invention novel apparatus and method enables the full use or utilization of a toxic gas trap and results in significant cost savings. Furthermore, the present invention novel apparatus and method improves the yield of a fabrication process by reducing the machine down time since the service frequency for the chamber is reduced.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 1999Date of Patent: August 14, 2001Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Ltd.Inventors: Shih-Chang Shih, Yung-Dar Chen, Fu-Shun Lo, Wen-Hsiung Wu
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Patent number: 6237368Abstract: A method for regulating or controlling the content of NOx in the exhaust gases of a glass-melting furnace having several burners operated in alternation, wherein both the beginning and the end of a combustion break (FP+, FP−) are supplied to a binary signal generator (8) which passes a signal to a regulator (4) with a time delay and upon receipt of the time-regulator (4), and the amount of NH3 supplied to the denitrating plant is adjusted to a lower constant fixed value F1 via a control, and by means of a memory element (7) a higher constant fixed value F2 is calculated as amount of NH3 and supplied to the regulator (4), whereupon as soon as the regulator (4) has received the signal of the time-delayed end of a combustion break, the fixed value F1 is adjusted to the fixed value F2 via a control, and subsequently the regulation is directly continued.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 1999Date of Patent: May 29, 2001Assignee: Metallgesellschaft AktiengesellschaftInventors: Hans Beisswenger, Klaus Hasselwander, Hansjörg Herden, Gernot Mayer-Schwinning, Gurudas Samant, Peter Ludwig
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Patent number: 6224651Abstract: A process for separation of a gas mixture by pressure swing adsorption, in which a pressure swing cycle comprising a sequence of steps which define adsorption, decompression/regeneration and pressure rise phases is employed for the or each adsorber. The cycle furthermore comprises at least temporarily at least one step of isolating the adsorber (II; IV) during which the pressure variation in the isolated adsorber is recorded.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 1999Date of Patent: May 1, 2001Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges ClaudeInventors: Christian Monereau, Yves Engler, Guillaume De Souza, Pierre Olivier Dolle
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Patent number: 6168646Abstract: Electronic equipment having a temperature control air flow passage. A length of filter material has a length portion extending across the upstream end of the flow passage, the filter material being movable longitudinally to replace the clogged length portion with unused filter material. A filter advancement device is operable by a control device actuated when an undesirably low fluid flow rate is achieved through the length portion so as to effect filter replacement. Roller devices give up unused filter material and take up used material. A stepper motor may be used to advance filter material for replacement purposes. The control device is preferably operated upon drop in rotational speed of a fan located immediately downstream of the filter length portion, the speed drop being caused by drag as the filter becomes clogged. Alternatively, the control device comprises a switch which is operated as the filter length portion flexes it becomes clogged, or temperature sensors located at chosen sites.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 1999Date of Patent: January 2, 2001Assignee: Nortel Networks LimitedInventors: William L. Craig, John S. Moss
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Patent number: 6077330Abstract: Device and method for the regeneration of a drying agent in compressed air system. The wetting degree of the drying agent is estimated and recorded by a control unit. The control unit ensures that the drying agent is dehumidified as soon as the wetting degree has reached a certain wetting degree. This certain wetting degree may be set to different levels for different operational condition.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 1998Date of Patent: June 20, 2000Assignee: AB VolvoInventor: Mats Sabelstrom
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Patent number: 6042634Abstract: A gas sampling apparatus includes a probe tube having a tip positionable in a stream of products of combustion and a sample dryer tube connected in fluid communication with an end of the probe tube opposite the tip. The sample dryer tube is received in a purge gas tube along a lengthwise axis thereof. The purge gas tube and the sample dryer tube define therebetween a space through which a purge gas pump urges a purge gas in a first direction. A sample pump connected in fluid communication with the sample dryer tube urges therethrough in a second direction opposite the first direction a sample of gas obtained from the stream of products of combustion via the probe tube. A sensor is positioned to detect a constituent of the sample of gas exhausted from the sample dryer tube. The sample dryer tube is formed at least in part of a hydrophilic membrane and the purge gas entering the space contains less water vapor than the sample of gas.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 1998Date of Patent: March 28, 2000Assignee: Bacharach, Inc.Inventors: Norman L. Van Tassel, William J. Perroz, Jr., Richard M. Hickox
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Patent number: 6040777Abstract: A device and a process for indicating the exhaustion of an adsorption filter to indicate a necessary filter change in time is provided. The monitoring device has a gas concentration-measuring device (8), a temperature-measuring device (9) for determining the temperature of the ambient air, a memory unit (3) with a first memory field (4), in which filter data sets associated with individual filters are stored, with a second memory field (5), in which data specific of toxic substances are stored, and with a third memory field (6), which contains preset values for the ambient air humidity and the respiratory minute volume, as well as an input unit (7) for selecting preset values from the memory fields (4, 5, 6). A timer (10) with a start button (13), which provides an output of the service life t of the adsorption filter is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 1999Date of Patent: March 21, 2000Assignee: Drager Sicherheitstechnik GmbHInventors: Klaus Ammann, Wolfgang Bather
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Patent number: 6036757Abstract: A portable air purifier including a housing defining an air inlet, an air outlet and an air flow passage extending therebetween; a filter mechanism disposed to filter air circulating through the flow passage; and a fan retained by the housing and activatable to draw air through the air inlet, move air through the flow passage and filter mechanism, and discharge air through the air outlet. An electrically powered drive mechanism is energizable to activate the fan and a control system including a processor monitors and records elapsed time data during periods in which the fan is activated to move air.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 1998Date of Patent: March 14, 2000Assignee: Honeywell Inc.Inventors: Stephen M. Gatchell, Zhiwei Xu
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Patent number: 6001151Abstract: A filter cell for use as all or as part of a filter panel includes an upper face 1 and a lower face 2. The upper face 1 and lower face 2 includes a set of parallel ribs 3 interconnected across one end by a further rib 4 orthogonal to the ribs 3. A mesh panel 5 is provided between each of the ribs 3 to define a flat surface through which air or gas can flow. The ribs on the upper face 1 cooperate with the ribs on the lower face 2 to define a plurality of open ended compartments spacer frame 6 which increase the size of the compartments by extending the ribbing 3 on the upper 1 and lower 2 faces are provided between upper face 1 and lower face 2. The upper face 1, spacer frames 6 and lower frame 2 are assembled by snap-fit using corresponding male 10 and female 11 lugs. A filter medium is inserted through the open ends into the compartments and a slide plate is used to close the ends.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 1998Date of Patent: December 14, 1999Assignee: AAC Eurovent LimitedInventor: Robin Dean Elshout
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Patent number: 5944873Abstract: The invention relates to a device for removing one or more undesirable or dangerous substances for the human race from a gas or vapour mixture, the device comprising: a predetermined amount of adsorbent for adsorbing the substances and an odourant for releasing an odour in order to alarm a person, wherein the odourant is arranged in such a manner that the odourant is displaceable by the substances, following a predetermined level of saturation of the adsorbent.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 1997Date of Patent: August 31, 1999Assignee: Nederlandse Organisatie Voor Toegepastnatuurwetenschappelijk Onderzoek TNOInventors: Hein Jager, Martin Jozef Van de Voorde
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Patent number: 5914453Abstract: A monitoring apparatus for alerting an operator to the need to change a temperature control system filter includes a mechanism for selecting and setting a primary period of filter use to assure replacement before the filter becomes clogged; a mechanism for counting out the selected primary period; a mechanism for activating a signalling device to signal the operator to replace the filter, absent replacement of the filter; a mechanism for sensing replacement of the filter; a mechanism for resetting the mechanism for counting to begin the counting out the selected primary period again upon replacement of the filter; a mechanism for counting out a secondary period measured from the end of the primary period; a mechanism for shutting down the system at the end of the secondary period absent replacement of the filter; and a mechanism for detecting a fire within the building. The apparatus preferably additionally includes a mechanism for shutting down the temperature control system upon detection of a fire.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 1998Date of Patent: June 22, 1999Inventors: Terry Lynn James, Tommy M. Buckley
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Patent number: 5853455Abstract: A method is provided for efficiently controlling the operation of a vapor recovery system including a first reaction vessel and first bed of adsorbent, a second reaction vessel and second bed of adsorbent and a vacuum pump for selectively regenerating those beds of adsorbent. The method includes the step of adsorbing vapor from an air-volatile liquid vapor mixture on the first bed of adsorbent in the first reaction vessel, measuring a total amount of the vapor adsorbed by the first bed of adsorbent, comparing the total amount of vapor adsorbed on the first bed of adsorbent to a first predetermined value which is a percentage of the first bed adsorbance capacity and regenerating the first bed of adsorbent and adsorbing the vapor from the air-volatile liquid vapor mixture on the second bed of adsorbent in the second reaction vessel upon reaching the first predetermined value.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 1997Date of Patent: December 29, 1998Assignee: Jordan Technologies, Inc.Inventor: David L. Gibson
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Patent number: 5810908Abstract: An air filtering apparatus including motor selectively connected to a power source, a fan driven by the motor and creating an air flow, a replaceable filter element selectively positioned in the air flow path, and an electronic control. The electronic control includes a clogged filter element detector and an indicator and a missing filter element detector. The current drawn by the fan motor is sensed by a current transformer and compared to a predetermined threshold by a comparator in each detector. If the current drawn by the fan motor is less than the clogged filter element predetermined threshold, the clogged filter element detector operates an indicator. If the current drawn by the fan motor is greater than the missing filter element predetermined threshold, the missing filter element detector operates a controller to disconnect the fan motor from the power source.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 1997Date of Patent: September 22, 1998Assignee: Bemis Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Edward G. Gray, John W. Seaman
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Patent number: 5772732Abstract: A monitoring apparatus for alerting an operator to the need to change a temperature control system filter includes a mechanism for selecting and setting a primary period of filter use to assure replacement before the filter becomes clogged; a mechanism for counting out the selected primary period; a mechanism for activating a signalling device to signal the operator to replace the filter, absent replacement of the filter; a mechanism for sensing replacement of the filter; and a mechanism for resetting the mechanism for counting to begin the counting out the selected primary period again upon replacement of the filter. The apparatus preferably additionally includes a mechanism for counting out a secondary period measured from the end of the primary period; and a mechanism for shutting down the system at the end of the secondary period absent replacement of the filter.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 1996Date of Patent: June 30, 1998Inventors: Terry Lynn James, Tommy M. Buckley
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Patent number: 5772711Abstract: Apparatus for indicating when the air intake filter of portable turbines useful with spray paint guns is blocked and a method and apparatus for close coupled mounting of a pair of series connected turbines by axially aligning and abutting the axial outlet of one turbine against the axial inlet of the other turbine with a seal surrounding the turbine junction and with tie rods extending between radially projecting apertured ears of the turbines securing the turbines together and supporting the turbines on a generally U-shaped mounting bracket having spaced apart flanges engaging the tie rods. An air baffle partitions the space containing the two turbines into two air plenums to prevent hot air exhausted by the larger turbine from entering the air inlet to the turbine impellers. A visual or audible indicator provides a perceptible indication that the filter is becoming blocked.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 1996Date of Patent: June 30, 1998Assignee: Wagner Spray Tech CorporationInventor: Joseph W. Kieffer
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Patent number: 5730777Abstract: A method for performing a function or an operation involving a material, in particular, a non-gaseous material such as a biological material subjected to a scientific investigation, under a gaseous atmosphere in a closed chamber comprising performing the operation in a housing comprising i) first chamber walls defining a first chamber containing a gaseous atmosphere and ii) second chamber walls defining a second chamber substantially enclosing the first chamber, the second chamber containing a gaseous atmosphere between the first and second chamber walls, the operation being performed in the first chamber while a) the partial pressure of the selected gas species or the total gas pressure in the atmosphere of the second chamber is lower than the partial pressure of the selected species of the total gas pressure, respectively, of the gaseous atmosphere in an adjacent outer third chamber or space. The invention also relates to a housing for performing the operation mentioned above.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 1996Date of Patent: March 24, 1998Assignees: Peter Mosborg Peterson, Jan Alexander Villadsen, Peter EbbesenInventors: Peter Mosborg Petersen, Jan Alexander Villadsen, Peter Ebbesen
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Patent number: 5711785Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for cleaning filter elements, such as filter bags in a plurality of baghouses and for predicting the useful life of such filter elements in individual baghouses. The volumetric flow rate of air from each baghouse is continually calculated using actual impact and static pressure measurements and compared with a flow rate set point. The set point is continually adjusted for density correction based on the actual air stream temperature. The bags are pulsed for cleaning when the flow rate is less than the adjusted set point. Pulsing is then halted when the flow rate reaches or exceeds the adjusted set point. Total daily cleaning times are accumulated over time and graphically displayed to indicate when a critical level is reached indicating that filter bag change out is needed. Each baghouse is monitored in this manner to reflect the unique operating conditions of each baghouse.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 1995Date of Patent: January 27, 1998Assignee: Ormet CorporationInventor: Allan L. Maxwell
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Patent number: 5688308Abstract: The electrostatic air cleaning system is mounted in a duct of a residential or commercial heating and cooling system to remove particles from the circulating air. The electrostatic air cleaning system includes an air flow sensor which turns the air cleaner off in response to the lack of air flow through the air duct. An air flow sensor circuit connected to the electrostatic air cleaner includes a thermistor which detects the lack of air flow in the duct and provides a signal in response to lack of airflow. The signal from the sensor causes the power supply to the electrostatic air cleaner to be disconnected when there is insufficient air flow through the air duct. The air flow sensor circuit is configured so that power will continue to be supplied to the electrostatic air cleaner from the power supply when the sensor is disabled for a variety of reasons.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 1995Date of Patent: November 18, 1997Assignee: Trion, Inc.Inventor: Ronald D. Voigts
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Patent number: 5679137Abstract: An electrostatic air cleaner has at least one hole in one of the plates over which air with charged dirt particles is passed. A light source is mounted adjacent to the hole so as to direct its light through the hole. A light sensor detects the level of light passing through the hole. As dirt particles deposit on the plate, they fill in the hole over a period of time, reducing the amount of light passing through the hole. It is possible by measuring the amount of light passing through the hole, to determine the amount of dirt deposited on the plate. In a preferred embodiment, each of the plates contain a hole in alignment with each of the other plates' holes so that light from a single light source can pass through each of the holes. Such a configuration allows both the light source and the light sensor to be located outside of the entire group of plates.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 1995Date of Patent: October 21, 1997Assignee: Honeywell Inc.Inventors: John L. Erdman, Stephen J. Kemp, Mark R. Schoeneck, Maynard L. Thompson
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Patent number: 5593470Abstract: A modular filtration system for cleaning HVAC ductwork includes first and second modular assemblies containing a plurality of filters. The modules can be easily transported into a site and connected to one another and to the ductwork. The system includes a plurality of wheels and external assembly protruding from the housing to assist in wheeling the housing up and down stairs.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 1995Date of Patent: January 14, 1997Assignee: Abatement Technologies, Inc.Inventors: David M. Shagott, Gary E. Kruse, Blair L. Harber, Jr., Daniel N. Sutherland, Terrell F. Travis
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Patent number: 5588985Abstract: A method is disclosed for cleaning HVAC ductwork, including the steps of transporting first and second modular filter assemblies to a site, connecting them in sealed fluid communication with one another and to the ductwork, drawing fluid through the filtration system from the HVAC ductwork, exhausting filtered fluid from the filtration system and tilting the housing so that any stairs present at the site bear against a bearing surface of an external conveyance assembly as the modules are transported up and down stairs.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 1995Date of Patent: December 31, 1996Assignee: Abatement Technologies, Inc.Inventors: David M. Shagott, Gary E. Kruse, Blair L. Harber, Jr., Daniel N. Sutherland, Terrell F. Travis
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Patent number: 5587005Abstract: In an air purifier apparatus, an electrostatic filter is detachably and operatively connectable to an electrical contact which in turn is connected to a terminal of a power supply. The electrostatic filter is also detachably and operatively connectable to a second electrical contact which is connected to an alarm device. When the electrostatic filter is properly mounted within the air purifier apparatus, the two electrical contacts are short-circuited, thus electrically connecting the power supply to the alarm device through the electrostatic filter. The alarm device provides an indication that the electrostatic filter is properly mounted within the air purifier apparatus when energized by the power supply.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 1995Date of Patent: December 24, 1996Assignee: Procond Elettronica S.p.A.Inventor: Doreano De Marco
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Patent number: 5360467Abstract: A method for detection of impurities at very low levels in hydrogen, oxygen or specialty gases comprises the metered mixture with high purity helium and subsequent selective separation of hydrogen, oxygen or specialty gas with the detection of impurities remaining in the helium by ionization spectrometry.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 1993Date of Patent: November 1, 1994Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.Inventors: Suhas N. Ketkar, Robert G. Ridgeway, Peter J. Maroulis, Timothy C. Golden
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Patent number: 5346533Abstract: A method of monitoring filter components. The components are hollow and employed for filtering hot and dusty gases. They are accommodated in groups in a housing. Each group communicates through a single supply line with a filtered-gas line. The filtered-gas line conveys the filtered gas away. A sweeper is injected in the form of a gas into each supply line in cycles at higher pressure. The sweeping cycle is recorded. Measurement is carried out in the flow of sweeper and/or of filtered gas. The result of the measurement is compared with the record and an alarm released in the event of a discrepancy.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 1993Date of Patent: September 13, 1994Assignee: Deutsche Babcock Energie- und Umwelttechnik AktiengesellschaftInventors: Werner Jelich, Heiko Rehwinkel, Friedrich Klauke, Dieter Konig, Udo Kalthoff
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Patent number: 5334237Abstract: A method for predicting end-of-life of a system consumable in a fluid purification system characterized by the steps of (a) coupling a model consumable to the fluid purification system which has comparable characteristics but substantially less time capacity than the system consumable; (b) diverting a portion of an unpurified fluid which could otherwise flow into the system consumable into the model consumable; and (c) analyzing the model consumable to predict the end-of-life of the system consumable. Preferably, the time capacity of the model consumable to remove impurities from the fluid is a small fraction, e.g. 25%-50%, of the capacity of the system consumable.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 1993Date of Patent: August 2, 1994Assignee: SAES Pure Gas, Inc.Inventor: D'Arcy H. Lorimer
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Patent number: 5324344Abstract: A system and method are provided to verify proper operation of and to adjust a particulate emission detector in a system including a dust collector bag house. A by-pass apparatus is provided around the dust collector bag house which includes a conduit downstream of the inlet to said dust collector bag house and an outlet in fluid communication with a fluid outlet conduit extending from said dust collector bag house.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 1993Date of Patent: June 28, 1994Assignee: Brown & Williamson Tobacco CorporationInventors: David Broyan, Robert T. Lewis
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Patent number: 5269832Abstract: A method and apparatus for continuously monitoring the concentration of a target chemical in a solution, such as chlorine dioxide in sewage or waste water, includes a holding tank, a bubbler chamber, and an air pump for directing air bubbles through the solution held in the bubbler chamber. Gases discharged from the solution by the air bubbles are collected in the bubbler chamber. These discharged gases include a quantity of the target chemical present in the solution as a dissolved gas. The concentration of the chemical in the discharged gases is then measured with a sensor such as a polarographic probe. This concentration along with the measured temperature of the solution is used as an analog to determine the concentration of the chemical in the solution.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 1992Date of Patent: December 14, 1993Assignee: Winfield IndustriesInventor: Robert S. Meijer