Germicidal Lamp (e.g., Ultraviolet Light, Etc.) Patents (Class 96/224)
  • Patent number: 6736885
    Abstract: An air filtration system for refrigerated compartments. In one embodiment, the refrigerated compartment of the invention includes a plurality of walls defining the refrigerated compartment, an air inlet passage and an air outlet passage extending through at least one of the walls, a plenum chamber positioned outside of said refrigerated compartment having an air inlet port and an air outlet port wherein the air inlet port and air outlet port are respectively fluidly coupled to the air inlet passage and said air outlet passage, a fan to produce airflow between the air inlet port and the air outlet port, and an air filter assembly disposed within the plenum. The air filtration system of the invention can be utilized in a refrigerated commercial transport vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Inventor: Dolores Kaiser
  • Patent number: 6730141
    Abstract: A method is for selectively removing gaseous pollutants from the ambient air, and a device is for implementing the method. Undesirable emissions may be selectively and completely removed from the ambient air using relatively simple equipment and a small amount of energy. Pollutants contained in the air to be purified are ionized by the action of optical radiation, based on resonant and/or non-resonant single-photon excitation and/or multiple-photon excitation, so that the ionized pollutants are drawn off and removed from the air to be purified, using an electric field. A small portion of the energy necessary for the ionization may also be applied in the form of microwave energy or electric-field energy. The method and device may be used in air-conditioning or other air-circulation systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: EADS Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Johann Goebel, Helmut Oberpriller, Peter Peuser
  • Publication number: 20040074392
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fixture type sterilizing and lighting apparatus provided together with a sterilizing apparatus and a lighting apparatus, so that it can accomplish a sterilization and an illumination concurrently by the same electric lamp, economize in energy and resources and solve one's double share in expenses. The fixture type sterilizing and lighting apparatus includes a ultraviolet electric lamp 1, 4, 22, 14 for emitting ultraviolet rays (wavelength of 253.7 nm); a fluorescent film 2, 5, 8, 15 formed with a fluorescent substance which emits the necessary rays such as visible rays, ultraviolet rays and infrared rays by the ultraviolet rays (wavelength of 253.7 nm) emitted from the above ultraviolet electric lamp 1, 4, 22, 14; a transparent tube or transparent plate 3, 6, 9, 16 coated with the above fluorescent film; (wavelength of 253.7 nm); and a reflection plate 17 for reflecting the ultraviolet rays (wavelength of 253.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Joon Choi
  • Publication number: 20040025694
    Abstract: An air purification and disinfection apparatus incorporates an air inlet filter (1) spanning the intake of the apparatus, an ultraviolet light source (2) for treating the air within a chamber (14) of the apparatus, and an equalising screen (3) spanning the outlet of the apparatus. The chamber (14) is lined with a reflective sheet (11) or coating such that the ultraviolet light is reflected around the chamber (14). The air inlet filter (1) removes larger airborne particles from the airflow prior to entering the chamber (14). The light source (2) may be located in the chamber (14) or in a housing (16) which communicates with the chamber (14). With the reflective surface of the chamber (14), the intensity of the light source (2) can be maintained when dirt begins to build up on the light source (2), thereby extending the length of time that passes between each cleaning of the light source (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Gordon Hurst
  • Publication number: 20040020363
    Abstract: A self contained air purification pyramid shaped system and apparatus that can form up to approximately 300 cfm of air flow at high speed, that can remove allergy causing particulates, microorganisms, and odors/chemicals from the air so as to create a healthier environment. The system and apparatus can use a carbon prefilter for removal of larger particulate and odors/chemicals and gases, a UV(ultra violet) lamp for destruction of bacteria, viruses, and molds, and a hospital grade HEPA filter (approximately 99.97% efficient at approximately 0.3 microns) for removal of smaller particulate and bacteria. Air can first enter the peak of the pyramid shaped apparatus, pass through a carbon prefilter, past the UV lamp(s), through filter, such as a HEPA filter, and through a motorized impeller which pushes the air out lower sides of the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2002
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventors: Derek LaFerriere, Dan Martin
  • Patent number: 6680028
    Abstract: A portable air purifier system and apparatus which includes a multi-element filter pack that is replaceable as a single unit, thus facilitating health safety of maintenance personnel. By serially disposing filter elements in order of descending sizes of particulates, filtering is improved. Selectably includable within the filters are materials that are particularly efficacious in removing contaminants such as acetone, ammonia, ozone, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, ethanol, methane, ethane, methanol, formaldehyde, hydrogen sulfide and other hazardous substances. By including an ultra-violet light source directed onto an activated charcoal layer, germicidal action is facilitated, and noise is abated through the advantageous employment of an expanded plenum and multiple right angle bends in air passageways.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Clean Air Research & Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles D. Harris
  • Patent number: 6673137
    Abstract: An air purifier includes a housing having a purification chamber with an inlet to the housing for drawing in contaminated air and an outlet from the housing for releasing purified air. The air purifier also includes an inlet for introducing a fluid containing a source of antimicrobial ions into the purification chamber. The air purifier also includes at least one microwave radiation source and at least one ultraviolet radiation source which work in combination to increase the effectiveness of the antimicrobial ions. Also included are filters for removing airborne particulates and adsorbing antimicrobial ions from treated air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Sheree H. Wen
  • Patent number: 6666912
    Abstract: An air cleaning apparatus that includes a housing, a fan, an ultraviolet lamp, and a cylindrical filter. The housing has a separation plate that defines an air inlet region and an air outlet region inside the housing. The separation plate has a vent. An air inlet is formed through an outer surface of the air inlet region. An air outlet is formed through an outer surface of the air outlet region. A holder is located in the longitudinal direction of the housing. A fan is mounted in the air inlet region proximate to the vent of the separation plate. An ultraviolet lamp is mounted inside the holder. A cylindrical filter has a rotating part at one end thereof. The holder is arranged inside the cylindrical filter, and the rotating part is rotatably engaged with the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Inventor: Jason Yan
  • Publication number: 20030230196
    Abstract: Provided is an oxygen supply device for common use in a vehicle and indoors, that generates oxygen and supplies the same to the vehicle or a place indoors, and can provide an oxygen concentration display operating in combination with the oxygen supply device for vehicle- or indoor-use. The oxygen supply device for generating oxygen of a constant concentration has a simple structure and operational mechanism and a compact case where various components such as an oxygen separator and a pump mechanism are contained to thereby allow a user to easily mount and dismount the oxygen supply device in and from a vehicle and a place indoors as necessary, and then carry the same by hand. The oxygen supply device has a display for enabling users to verify a current oxygen concentration so the user is reassured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Inventor: Tai-Jin Kim
  • Publication number: 20030230197
    Abstract: An air cleaning apparatus that includes a housing, a fan, an ultraviolet lamp, and a cylindrical filter. The housing has a separation plate that defines an air inlet region and an air outlet region inside the housing. The separation plate has a vent. An air inlet is formed through an outer surface of the air inlet region. An air outlet is formed through an outer surface of the air outlet region. A holder is located in the longitudinal direction of the housing. A fan is mounted in the air inlet region proximate to the vent of the separation plate. An ultraviolet lamp is mounted inside the holder. A cylindrical filter has a rotating part at one end thereof. The holder is arranged inside the cylindrical filter, and the rotating part is rotatably engaged with the opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Inventor: Jason Yan
  • Patent number: 6663690
    Abstract: Elemental mercury is removed from emissions of coal-fired utilities by the selective photoionization of mercury atoms using ultraviolet light, followed by electrostatic precipitation of the mercury ions. Mercury is first exposed to light of a wavelength which boosts the mercury to an excited state. Then mercury is ionized using light of a different wavelength. The ionized mercury atoms are exposed to supersaturated water vapor to produce charged droplets which are precipitated, such that the exhaust effluent is substantially devoid of mercury or the mercury level is substantially reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Johns Hopkins University
    Inventor: Joseph L. Katz
  • Publication number: 20030221279
    Abstract: The cyclone-type dust collecting apparatus for a vacuum cleaner can reduce reverse flow of dirt and kill any bacteria in the dirt-collecting receptacle. The cyclone-type dust-collecting apparatus has a protruding flow path formed on the front side of the cyclone body and a lamp-positioning groove depressed inwardly at one side of the dirt-collecting receptacle for an ultraviolet lamp disposed in the cleaner body to apply ultraviolet rays radiated into the dirt-collecting receptacle. Accordingly, various bacteria inside the dirt collecting receptacle can be killed as the ultraviolet lamp disposed in the lamp positioning groove of the dirt collecting receptacle continuously applies the ultraviolet rays into the dirt collecting receptacle while the cleaner is on.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventors: Jang-Keun Oh, Hyun-Ju Lee
  • Publication number: 20030217641
    Abstract: A germicidal method and apparatus for destroying airborne pathogenic bacteria such as tuberculosis bacteria using ultraviolet light. Air is drawn through a filter and into a sterilization chamber that is irradiated with ultraviolet light, and out through an exhaust opening. Consideration for the characteristics of the room in which the apparatus is installed and the positioning of the installation allows effective prevention of transmission of disease through expectoration and inhalation of airborne microdroplets of bacteria-containing sputum. The filter is of the low-density type which traps large particulates, but not small particulates of the size of the microdroplets, so that the filter does not become a bacteria colonization site. Baffles on the air intake opening and air exhaust opening to prevent ultraviolet light from escaping into the environment. The sterilization chamber is constructed such that the air passes the ultraviolet light bulbs twice as it circulates therethrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2003
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Inventors: Richard P. Palestro, Dale R. Morgan, Michael Dee Iseman
  • Patent number: 6648030
    Abstract: A ventilating/sterilizing system for food-quality liquid storage tanks has a weatherproof overhead hood. Incoming air, drawn up into the hood is first filtered at the intake of an electric blower forcing the airflow through a main filter to be sterilized by ultraviolet radiation then heated for tank entry, where airflow drives out moisture and displaces air in the head region through a specially designed weather protective tank outlet vent with a removable cone-shaped dual-screen filter unit. A remote indicator light panel indicates normal operation and malfunctions. Stainless steel construction throughout minimizes deterioration and contamination. The main filter is enclosed in a housing mounted on a base unit containing the ultra-violet chamber, the heating chamber, and electrical components. The hood is hinged for intake filter access; similarly the blower assembly is hinged for main filter access for replacement or cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Robert J. Sparks
  • Patent number: 6630105
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for decontaminating chemical and biological agents using the reactive properties of both the single atomic oxygen and the hydroxyl radical for the decontamination of chemical and biological agents. The apparatus is self contained and portable and allows for the application of gas reactants directly at the required decontamination point. The system provides for the use of ultraviolet light of a specific spectral range to photolytically break down ozone into molecular oxygen and hydroxyl radicals where some of the molecular oxygen is in the first excited state. The excited molecular oxygen will combine with water vapor to produce two hydroxyl radicals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2003
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
    Inventors: Hugh J. O'Neill, Kenneth L. Brubaker
  • Patent number: 6623538
    Abstract: A compact, portable, lightweight, low power consuming, convenient, versatile and sterile laminar airflow device, useful in obtaining a workspace substantially devoid of airborne particulate contaminants, said device having a body (C) divided into an upper and lower chambers; the upper chamber housing one or more pre-filtration members (B), a motor (T) driving a fan (S), and one or more filters (U) located below the motor; and the lower chamber provided with a slideable front panel (M), a removable platform (X) located at the lower portion of the chamber and a perforated plane (N) placed on the removable platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Council of Scientific & Industrial Research
    Inventors: Rajesh Thakur, Anil Sood, Paramvir Singh Ahuja
  • Patent number: 6623544
    Abstract: A housing for purifying an air flow moving through it provides a reception space for receiving the air flow. The air is treated with mechanical filtration of particles larger than approximately 2 micron, ionizing with energetic ions, exposure to ultraviolet light radiation, and electrostatic precipitation of particles in the air inflow. The ionizing and UV bombardment of the air inflow occur simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Inventor: Kamaljit S. Kaura
  • Publication number: 20030131734
    Abstract: An outwardly projecting air purifier comprising a support, a generally cylindrical array of UV lamp assemblies mounted to the support, wherein each the UV lamp assembly comprises a reflector having a generally parabolic inner surface and a UV lamp so mounted to the reflector that the inner surface of the reflector reflects a portion of the ultraviolet radiation emitted by the lamp in an outward, radial, direction is described herein. The air purifier also includes a convex shaped deflector element so mounted to the support that the airflow is deflected by the deflector element and brought near the lamps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventors: Stuart Engel, Normand Brais, Marc Lupien
  • Patent number: 6589323
    Abstract: There is provided a system for cleaning a contaminated airflow. The system includes a macro-contaminant separator that creates substantially macro-contaminant free airflow, a micro-contaminant separator that creates a substantially contaminant free airflow from said substantially macro-contaminant free airflow, and a germ controlling device that kills or controlling any germs remaining in the substantially contaminant free airflow. The macro-contaminant separator may be a cyclone-type contaminant separator. The micro-contaminant separator may include a micro-particle filter, an odor adsorber, or both. The germ controlling means may be an ultraviolet light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Inventor: Amos Korin
  • Patent number: 6589486
    Abstract: The apparatus and method of the present invention are suitable for use in the HVAC system of a building or dwelling such as a home or small commercial building. The apparatus and method cleans, purifies and deodorizes air in the building or dwelling. The air purifying apparatus comprises the following basic components: a UV germicidal lamp, an ozone generator, an air flow sensor, a control system, a status display system, a coupling system to connect the apparatus to an HVAC system, and a power system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Osceola Specialty Products
    Inventor: John B Spanton
  • Publication number: 20030121419
    Abstract: An air extraction and treatment unit (2) is located above a source of contaminated air. The apparatus has a series of ultraviolet tubes (20) for treating the decontaminated air. The unit is arranged such that in use substantially no direct or reflected ultraviolet light is visible from outside the unit. Furthermore even when a removable filter (4) is removed, there is no direct line of sight to the ultra-violet sources.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Publication date: July 3, 2003
    Inventor: Phillip George Gibson
  • Patent number: 6585809
    Abstract: A system for separating a gaseous constituent from a gaseous mixture includes an ionization chamber, suction plenums separated from the chamber by an anode or a cathode, suction pumps for drawing gas from the plenums, and a throttle valve for controlling the entry of gas into the ionization chamber so as to maintain the chamber at a pressure less than atmospheric. The ionization chamber is bounded by an anode and a cathode, which are separated by a volume for containing the gaseous mixture. When the electrodes are oppositely charged, ions of a gaseous constituent are drawn towards the electrode of opposite polarity to the ions, and away from the other electrode. As ions approach the electrodes, they are collected and sucked though exhaust ports by the pumps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Inventor: Komad Parsa
  • Patent number: 6585897
    Abstract: The apparatus of the present invention for treating a gas containing a substance to be decomposed comprises an adsorption unit equipped with an adsorbent for adsorbing the substance to be decomposed, a steam introduction unit for bringing steam into contact with the adsorbent, a condensation unit for obtaining a condensed liquid containing the substance to be decomposed from the steam containing the substance, a reaction tank, a condensed liquid supply unit for supplying the condensed liquid to the reaction tank, a hypochlorous acid supply unit for supplying a solution containing hypochlorous acid to the reaction tank, and a light irradiation unit for irradiating the reaction tank with light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Kinya Kato
  • Patent number: 6579342
    Abstract: Oleophobic and hydrophobic filters for filter venting applications are made by forming a fluorosulfone coating on the surface of a filtration substrate. The filters have high water penetration pressures and high air permeabilities. The coatings are formed by grafting a fluorosulfone oligomer to a polymeric substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: Pall Corporation
    Inventors: I-fan Wang, Jeff Palpallatoc
  • Publication number: 20030101872
    Abstract: A system which includes a forced air system with interconnected ducting and a humidifier positioned at a predetermined location in the ducting, with the system further includes a source of UV radiation for controlling bacteria. The improvement resides in providing plastic material for all components in the humidifier and other system component parts which contains a UV inhibiting material to combat UV deterioration of the plastic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2001
    Publication date: June 5, 2003
    Applicant: Carrier Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher E. Peel, Kevin H. Waldo
  • Patent number: 6572817
    Abstract: A system for treating a contaminated liquid wherein atmospheric air is fed into an oxygen generator with the resulting gases fed into an ozone generator and the resulting gases fed into a treatment tower as the contaminated liquid flows through the treatment tower is modified by locating apparatus between the oxygen generator and the ozone generator which apparatus receives the gases from the oxygen generator, ionizes such gases and feeds the ionized gases to the ozone generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Universal Water Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: William M. Fields, Donald L. Boyd
  • Publication number: 20030047079
    Abstract: The present invention describes a refrigerator air filtration system. In one embodiment, the filtration system is positioned outside of the refrigerated compartment. The refrigerated compartment of the invention includes a plurality of walls defining the refrigerated compartment, an air inlet passage and an air outlet passage extending through at least one of the walls, a plenum chamber positioned outside of said refrigerated compartment having an air inlet port and an air outlet port wherein the air inlet port and air outlet port are respectively fluidly coupled to the air inlet passage and said air outlet passage, a fan to produce airflow between the air inlet port and the air outlet port, and an air filter assembly disposed within the plenum. In an alternative embodiment, the refrigerator walls have internal cavities herein forming a plenum chamber in fluid communication with the interior airspace of te refrigerator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Inventor: Dolores Kaiser
  • Publication number: 20030021721
    Abstract: An air purification system for purifying recirculated air eg in an aircraft, vehicle, offices or hospitals comprises the combination of a filter section with an ultraviolet illumination section and a coating of an antimicrobial agent on surfaces in one or both of the filter and illumination sections. Air flow through the illumination section is caused to be slightly turbulent by means of a multi-bladed fan being fixed in position between the filter and illumination sections. This increases the dwell time of contaminants in the illumination section. The antimicrobial agent includes as an active ingredient a quarternary ammonium salt and preferably as the following structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Applicant: Microgenix Limited
    Inventor: Philip Hall
  • Patent number: 6497840
    Abstract: A germicidal method and apparatus for destroying airborne pathogenic bacteria such as tuberculosis bacteria using ultraviolet light. Air is drawn through a filter and into a sterilization chamber that is irradiated with ultraviolet light, and out through an exhaust opening. Consideration for the characteristics of the room in which the apparatus is installed and the positioning of the installation allows effective prevention of transmission of disease through expectoration and inhalation of airborne microdroplets of bacteria-containing sputum. The filter is of the low-density type which traps large particulates, but not small particulates of the size of the microdroplets, so that the filter does not become a bacteria colonization site. Baffles on the air intake opening and air exhaust opening to prevent ultraviolet light from escaping into the environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2002
    Inventors: Richard P. Palestro, Dale R. Morgan, Michael Dee Iseman, Donald P. Rosier
  • Patent number: 6494940
    Abstract: An air purifier including a housing supporting an air inlet, an air outlet and an air flow passage interconnecting the air inlet and the air outlet. The airflow passage is defined by a filtration chamber positioned upstream from a blower chamber and an ultraviolet light chamber. A blower assembly is supported within the blower chamber and includes a fan driven by a motor for forcing air through the air flow passage from the air inlet to the air outlet. A pre-filter and a main filter are removably supported within the air filtration chamber for entrapping particulates having a size of 0.3 microns and greater. An ultraviolet light source is positioned within the light chamber and is positioned proximate the air outlet. An outlet grille is supported proximate the air outlet and provides for the passage of air while substantially preventing the passage of ultraviolet light. The outlet grille includes a louver assembly including a plurality of blades defining a plurality of convoluted passages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex, Inc.
    Inventor: Marron Hak
  • Patent number: 6464760
    Abstract: The invention relates to a portable air sterilization and filtration apparatus for removing contaminants from the ambient atmosphere, having a housing with an inlet opening and an outlet opening, filter media and ultraviolet light source, and a motorized fan for maintaining a flow of air through the housing from the inlet opening to the outlet opening. The invention also includes easy access to the filter medium and to the ultraviolet light sources for periodic replacement or cleaning, and integrates a safety lock feature whereby the removal of the filter or the removal of an ultraviolet light source would open the power circuit to the ultraviolet light source, preventing accidental irradiation of the user. The ultraviolet light sources also activate an indicator light viewable by the user when the ultraviolet light sources are energized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventors: John C. K. Sham, Kumkit Kunavongvorakul
  • Publication number: 20020144601
    Abstract: A germicidal method and apparatus for destroying airborne pathogenic bacteria such as tuberculosis bacteria using ultraviolet light. Air is drawn through a filter and into a sterilization chamber that is irradiated with ultraviolet light, and out through an exhaust opening. Consideration for the characteristics of the room in which the apparatus is installed and the positioning of the installation allows effective prevention of transmission of disease through expectoration and inhalation of airborne microdroplets of bacteria-containing sputum. The filter is of the low-density type which traps large particulates, but not small particulates of the size of the microdroplets, so that the filter does not become a bacteria colonization site. Baffles on the air intake opening and air exhaust opening to prevent ultraviolet light from escaping into the environment. The sterilization chamber is constructed such that the air passes the ultraviolet light bulbs twice as it circulates therethrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventors: Richard P. Palestro, Dale R. Morgan, Michael Dee Iseman, Donald Preston Rosier
  • Patent number: 6454841
    Abstract: The present invention describes a refrigerator air filtration system. The air filtration system includes a microfilter adapted for use within a refrigerator by cooperating with existing air handling means, or in conjunction with a provided air handling means, e.g. a fan. In a preferred embodiment, the filtration system is supplied as a kit which includes the necessary components for use within a plurality of refrigerators as are known in the art. Incorporation of the air filtration system is useful for enhancing food freshness and flavor and further aids in retarding food spoilage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Inventor: Dolores Kaiser
  • Publication number: 20020121196
    Abstract: A compact, portable, lightweight, low power consuming, convenient, versatile and sterile laminar airflow device, useful in obtaining a workspace substantially devoid of airborne particulate contaminants, said device comprising a body (C) divided into an upper and lower chambers; the upper chamber housing one or more pre-filtration members (B), a motor (T) driving a fan (S), and one or more filters (U) located below the motor; and the lower chamber provided with a slideable front panel (M), a removable platform (X) located at the lower portion of the chamber and a perforated plane (N) placed on the removable platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2001
    Publication date: September 5, 2002
    Applicant: COUNCIL OF SCIENTIFIC & INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH
    Inventors: Rajesh Thakur, Anil Sood, Paramvir Singh Ahuja
  • Publication number: 20020098109
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for producing purified or ozone enriched air to remove contaminants from fluids is accomplished by exposing an air stream from a surrounding area to ozone generating ultra-violet (UV) radiation to generate ozone in a system ozone chamber. The ozone chamber is configured to reduce through-flow velocity and provide time for the ozone to mix with the air and oxidize contaminants. The air stream subsequently enters a germicidal chamber and is exposed to germicidal UV radiation to destroy bacteria and ozone in the air stream resulting in sterilized air. The radiation source may include an end-cap that interfaces guiding mechanisms to align the end-cap for power connections, and/or controls emission of ozone generating radiation to control production of ozone. Further, the system may include an additional germicidal chamber that exposes an air stream to germicidal radiation prior to treatment within the ozone chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2001
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventors: Jerry Nelson, Craig Andrews
  • Patent number: 6379427
    Abstract: A method for protecting an exposed surface in an enclosed space, such as a building, medical room, manufacturing space or consultation room, from harmful airborne agents. Airborne agents are charged by exposure to an electrostatically-charged cloud and an electrostatically-charged field is created for electrostatically manipulating the harmful airborne agent away from or toward the exposed surface for protecting the exposed surface from the harmful airborne agent. The harmful airborne agent may be collected on a charged surface, and destroyed by ultraviolet light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Inventor: Harold E. Siess
  • Patent number: 6372186
    Abstract: A germicidal lamp for harsh environments is disclosed. The germicidal lamp is suited for outdoor installation on an HVAC system or related components. The germicidal lamp is made from materials resistant to splashing water, etc., and includes plural seals to protect the interior of the fixture and prevent leakage or contamination into or out of the HVAC system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Steril-Aire USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Forrest B. Fencl, Robert M. Culbert
  • Publication number: 20020020297
    Abstract: Novel air purification devices are disclosed. Preferred devices comprise air inlets and outlets separated by a significant distance and at least one filter. Other preferred devices comprise a radiation source and at least one filter. Also disclosed are novel methods of purifying air.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2001
    Publication date: February 21, 2002
    Inventors: Peter A. Harris, David M. Lupo
  • Patent number: 6322614
    Abstract: The present invention refers to a device for high-purity filtering and disinfecting breathing air. The device includes a fine-dust filter and fan arranged on a housing. An elongate air flow tube is also arranged on the housing and is oriented to receive air flow from the housing. A second filter for disinfecting air is included in the elongate air flow tube. Arranged in series in the air flow tube are a third, main filter for removing microorganisms and a fourth, activated carbon filter for removing noxious fumes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventor: Kurt Tillmans
  • Publication number: 20010043887
    Abstract: An air purifier includes a high mass-flow rate air-mover and a low mass-flow rate ultra-violet radiation decontamination device. The decontamination device is mounted in spaced relation to the air-mover so as to space the inlet of the air-mover from the inlet of the decontamination device. In particular, the inlet of the decontamination device may be disposed oppositely to the inlet of the air-mover, relative to the outlet of the decontamination device, along a low mass-flow rate flow path of a low mass-flow rate air flow. The low mass-flow rate air flow passes ambient air into the inlet of the decontamination device, through the decontamination device so as to pass for an operative dwell time into operative proximity to at least one UV emitter mounted in the decontamination device and so as to exit from the outlet of the air-mover to then be drawn into the inlet of the air-mover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Guy G. Morneault, Stephen G. Morneault
  • Patent number: 6284025
    Abstract: A particle microtrap screen apparatus has an inlet, a jet orifice screen with multiple microjet orifices, and a microtrap plate having multiple microtraps spaced opposite the multiple microjet orifices for entrapping particles entrained by the jets and then released by the gas, and impacting in the microtraps with the energy imparted by the gas as the gas turns and flows between the jet orifice screen and the microtrap impact plate. Collection efficiencies of greater than 90% of particles, about 2 micrometers or larger in size, are experienced with pressure drops of less than 5 millimeters of water. The pressure drop does not increase upon increased loading with particles. The jet orifices have widths of D, about 0.5 millimeters, with spacing between orifices of about 5D and trap width and depth of about 4D and 2D, respectively, with about 2D spacing between the jet orifice screen and the microtrap plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Aerosol Dynamics, Inc.
    Inventors: Nathan Kreisberg, Susanne V. Hering
  • Patent number: 6280686
    Abstract: There are described apparatus and methods wherein ultraviolet light kills and/or degrades and vaporizes microorganisms and organic material which naturally form over time on a heat exchanger. As this matter is eliminated, the pressure drop is decreased (i.e., airflow is increased) and the heat exchange efficiency (capacity) is increased. Less energy per Btu removed is used by the cooling system, and less energy is used by the HVAC system to move air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: Steril-Aire U.S.A., Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Scheir, Forrest Fencl
  • Patent number: 6221314
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for ultraviolet irradiation of air for the purpose of removing contaminants from that air is disclosed. A U-shaped ultraviolet bulb enshrouded within a quartz tube provides enhanced contaminant destruction characteristics. By combining a plurality of those bulbs in a chamber that is of polished aluminum, and further combining aluminum filters therewith, added irradiation enhancement is achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Inventor: Wil Bigelow
  • Patent number: 6220579
    Abstract: A warm mist humidifier with a fan and a germicidal bulb to facilitate the dispersion of water vapor and the elimination of potentially harmful microorganisms in water. The humidifier includes a base unit having an energizing circuit, a water tank having a weight sensor and disposed on the base unit for supplying water to the base unit, a reservoir in the base unit for receiving water from the water tank, a heating assembly disposed in the base unit for vaporizing water received from the reservoir when the heating assembly is activated by the energizing circuit, and a tank switch for activating or deactivating the energizing circuit. The tank switch is responsive to a change of position of the water tank relative to the base unit in response to the water in the water tank. The heating assembly is consisted of a boiler cavity, a heating coil fixedly mounted underneath the boiler cavity, an insulative outer housing mounted on the boiler cavity, and a removable cover covering the insulative outer housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Inventor: Tsu-Hsiu Chen
  • Patent number: 6217834
    Abstract: An ultraviolet radiation lamp comprising a heat absorbing element on the exterior thereof such that, during operation of the lamp, the temperature of the lamp in contact with the heat absorbing element is at a lower temperature than the remainder of the lamp. The use of the lamp in a radiation source module and a fluid treatment system is also described. The ultraviolet radiation lamp is particularly useful for treatment of fluids such ambient air (e.g., containing pollutants), warm liquids and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: Trojan Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Feraz Hosein, Ted Mao, Rob Brunet
  • Patent number: 6149717
    Abstract: An electronic air cleaner (10) includes a housing (20), a mechanical prefilter (30), an electrostatic precipitator cell (40) and at least one germicidal lamp (50). The electrostatic precipitator cell (40) includes a plurality of collector plates (42) for collecting thereon particulate material from the air stream. The germicidal lamp or lamps (50) are disposed to irradiate the collector plates (42) and any particulate material collected thereon with germicidal light to destroy microbial growth that might occur on the particulate material deposited on the collector plates. Reflectors (60) may be provided in operative association with the germicidal lamp or lamps (50) to concentrate the germicidal light unto the collecting surface of the collector plates (42). A post filter (90), disposed downstream with respect to air flow of the lamp or lamps (50), is provided to remove volatile organic compounds from the air flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Carrier Corporation
    Inventors: Sunita Satyapal, Antonio Rinaldi, Robert J. Hall, Laurence R. Boedeker
  • Patent number: 6117219
    Abstract: A device for humidifying and washing air in which a hollow body of a sculptured configuration in a collecting container is supplied with water by a recycling pump so that the water cascades down the outer surface of the body and along the inner surface thereof which can be provided with steps. A mesh can be located within the body and the body can have openings at the top and bottom for enabling air to enter and leave the interior of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Inventor: Hans Muhr
  • Patent number: 6086657
    Abstract: An exhaust emissions filtering system for filtering of particulate matter from a flow of exhaust. The exhaust emissions filtering system comprises an ultrasonic transducer unit, an ultraviolet light unit, a magnetic particle filter unit, and an electronic control unit. The exhaust emissions filtering system removes particulates from exhaust emissions by fracturing the particles with the ultrasonic transducer unit, further breaking down the fractured particles with a high-intensity ultraviolet light, and removing the particles with an electrostatic mesh that is located in the magnetic particle filter unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Inventor: Joseph P. Freije
  • Patent number: 6071472
    Abstract: The photocatalytic action of titanium dioxide and the anti-odor activity of undecylenic acid or its compounds are combined in an atmospheric scrubbing or renewal system. The invention consists in placing a filter impregnated with these two substances and exposed to a natural or artificial source of ultraviolet radiation in the path of the air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: Elf Atochem S.A.
    Inventors: M. Henri-Jean Caupin, M. Joseph Dussaud
  • Patent number: 6063170
    Abstract: This invention relates to an air filtration system including four principle segments interconnected in series as one unit through which contaminated air is passed. The first segment includes a prefilter for the removal of dust particles; the second segment is provided with germicidal UV lamps for bacteria removal; the third segment contains a medicated wet filtration system for virus removal, and the fourth segment contains a final carbon filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: Air-A-Medic Corporation
    Inventor: Ronald H. Deibert