Patents by Inventor Andrew J. Niksa
Andrew J. Niksa has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
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Patent number: 10183875Abstract: A point of use electrolysis system can be used to generate oxidizing species within liquid retained by a point of use discharge nozzle, helping to prevent pathogens from growing and multiplying in the nozzle. In one example, a system includes a point of use discharge nozzle having an inlet and an outlet and electrodes. The electrodes are configured to electrochemically generate an oxidizing species within the point of use discharge nozzle. According to the example, the point of use discharge nozzle is configured to trap liquid from a liquid source, when liquid ceases flowing through the point of use discharge nozzle, thereby providing a trapped liquid. Further, the electrodes are configured to generate the oxidizing species within the trapped liquid.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2014Date of Patent: January 22, 2019Assignee: Water Star, Inc.Inventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Andrew J. Niksa
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Patent number: 9365425Abstract: Dissolved oxygen may be generated by adding a peroxide to a fluid stream and then catalytically decomposing the peroxide to generate oxygen. As the peroxide is catalytically decomposed, the oxygen may solubilize in a surrounding fluid so as to provide dissolved oxygen. In some examples, the amount of peroxide added to the fluid stream is controlled such that substantially all of the hydrogen peroxide added to the fluid stream catalytically decomposes and yet the dissolved oxygen concentration of the fluid stream does not exceed a dissolved oxygen saturation limit for the fluid stream.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: June 14, 2016Assignee: WATER STAR, INC.Inventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Andrew J. Niksa
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Publication number: 20150041410Abstract: A point of use electrolysis system can be used to generate oxidizing species within liquid retained by a point of use discharge nozzle, helping to prevent pathogens from growing and multiplying in the nozzle. In one example, a system includes a point of use discharge nozzle having an inlet and an outlet and electrodes. The electrodes are configured to electrochemically generate an oxidizing species within the point of use discharge nozzle. According to the example, the point of use discharge nozzle is configured to trap liquid from a liquid source, when liquid ceases flowing through the point of use discharge nozzle, thereby providing a trapped liquid. Further, the electrodes are configured to generate the oxidizing species within the trapped liquid.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 5, 2014Publication date: February 12, 2015Inventors: Marilyn J. NIKSA, Andrew J. NIKSA
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Patent number: 8580091Abstract: A composition and method of manufacture of electrodes having controlled electrochemical activity to allow the electrodes to be designed for a variety of electro-oxidation processes. The electrodes are comprised of a compact coating deposited onto a conductive substrate, the coating being formed as multiple layers of a mixture of one or more platinum group metal oxides and one or more valve metal oxides. The formation of multiple layers allows the concentrations of platinum group metal and valve metal to be varied for each layer as desired for an application. For example, an electrode structure can be manufactured for use as an anode in electroplating processes, such that the oxidation of the organic additives in the electrolyte is markedly inhibited. Another electrode can be manufactured to operate at high anodic potentials in aqueous electrolytes to generate strong oxidants, e.g., hydrogen peroxide or ozone.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2011Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Water Star, Inc.Inventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Andrew J. Niksa
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Publication number: 20120085571Abstract: A composition and method of manufacture of electrodes having controlled electrochemical activity to allow the electrodes to be designed for a variety of electro-oxidation processes. The electrodes are comprised of a compact coating deposited onto a conductive substrate, the coating being formed as multiple layers of a mixture of one or more platinum group metal oxides and one or more valve metal oxides. The formation of multiple layers allows the concentrations of platinum group metal and valve metal to be varied for each layer as desired for an application. For example, an electrode structure can be manufactured for use as an anode in electroplating processes, such that the oxidation of the organic additives in the electrolyte is markedly inhibited. Another electrode can be manufactured to operate at high anodic potentials in aqueous electrolytes to generate strong oxidants, e.g., hydrogen peroxide or ozone.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 27, 2011Publication date: April 12, 2012Inventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Andrew J. Niksa
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Publication number: 20110135562Abstract: High concentrations of hypochlorous acid can be produced from, most typically, brine using an system of simple design with minimum residual salt production, reduced power consumption, and at high operating efficiencies. This is accomplished by separating the system into two operations, each of which is preferably optimized. This process employs at least two electrochemical cells, the first of which has no separator between the anode and cathode and generates a high-strength hypochlorite solution. The hypochlorite is then diluted to a desired chlorine concentration and/or pH and fed into the anode compartment of a second electrochemical cell wherein the electrodes are separated by a barrier, such as, for example, a membrane or diaphragm. The separated cell produces a solution containing predominantly hypochlorous acid.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 23, 2010Publication date: June 9, 2011Applicants: Terriss Consolidated Industries, Inc., Water Star, Inc.Inventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Andrew J. Niksa, Marc J. Epstein, Steven Seiden
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Publication number: 20100089131Abstract: A fluid contamination analyzer employs one or more MEMS-based sensors. The sensors are incorporated into probes or alternatively may be employed in an in-line analyzer residing in the fluid. The sensors, which can be selective to detect a distinct contaminant within the fluid, sense an impedance of the fluid, which is a function of its contamination and communicates the impedance to analysis circuitry.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2009Publication date: April 15, 2010Inventors: Andrew J. Niksa, James D. Fousek
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Patent number: 7541004Abstract: A fluid contamination analyzer employs one or more MEMS-based sensors. The sensors are incorporated into probes or alternatively may be employed in an in-line analyzer residing in the fluid. The sensors, which can be selective to detect a distinct contaminant within the fluid, sense an impedance of the fluid, which is a function of its contamination and communicates the impedance to analysis circuitry.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2004Date of Patent: June 2, 2009Assignee: Predict, Inc.Inventors: Andrew J. Niksa, James D. Fousek
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Patent number: 5049457Abstract: An aqueous electrolyte aluminum-air battery comprises one or more cells, each cell comprising a frame which defines an electrolyte chamber. The frame is made of a rigid material inactive to the electrolyte. The cell has a consumable aluminum anode and an air cathode spaced from the anode by said electrolyte chamber. Means are provided for admitting electrolyte solution into the electrolyte chamber. A vent exposes the electrolyte chamber to atmosphere. A hydrophobic membrane which is impermeable to the passage of electrolyte but permeable to the passage of hydrogen closes the vent. A surface of each cell anode is exposed to the flow of air. The amount of surface exposed is effective to dissipate heat generated at the anode.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 1990Date of Patent: September 17, 1991Assignee: Eltech Systems CorporationInventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Andrew J. Niksa, Jay M. Noscal
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Patent number: 5017275Abstract: The present invention resides in an anode structure as well as in an electrolytic cell utilizing the anode structure. The anode structure comprises a resilient anode sheet having an active anode surface, and a support substructure for the anode sheet. The anode substructure has a predetermined configuration. Means are provided for flexing the anode sheet onto the anode substructure so that the anode sheet conforms to the configuration of the anode substructure and at the same time provides an adequate electrical junction for uniform current distribution.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 1989Date of Patent: May 21, 1991Assignee: Eltech Systems CorporationInventors: Andrew J. Niksa, Gerald R. Pohto
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Patent number: 5006216Abstract: The present invention resides in part in a process for removing a multivalent metal ion contaminant such as can be found in an acidic waste water. The waste water may also contain one or more extraneous metals such as copper. This process aspect then more particularly involves the steps of (1) simultaneously reducing said multivalent contaminant to a lower valence state and said extraneous metal to a metal state, while at the same time inhibiting reoxidation of the multivalent contaminant to a higher valence state; and (2) removing the multivalent contaminant which has been inhibited from reoxidation.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 1989Date of Patent: April 9, 1991Assignee: ELTECH Systems CorporationInventors: Joseph J. Dietrich, Andrew J. Niksa, James J. Stewart
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Patent number: 4950561Abstract: The present inveniton resides in a metal-air battery consisting of one or more cells. Each cell comprises a cell frame. An air cathode is attached to each face of the frame. An anode blank is inserted through an access opening in the frame into the space between the cathodes. The anode blank comprises an elastomeric rubber labyrinth seal molded to the blank and sealing the access opening. Means may be provided for circulating electrolyte into an out of the spaces between the anode and air cathodes. A preferred electrolyte is an aqueous solution of an alkali hydroxide.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 1989Date of Patent: August 21, 1990Assignee: Eltech Systems CorporationInventors: Andrew J. Niksa, Marilyn J. Nikasa, Jay M Noscal, Thomas J. Sovich
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Patent number: 4927717Abstract: A bipolar battery assembly of the consumable metal anode type is described. Contact between internal battery elements is now enhanced by air assisted, internally exerted compressive force. Battery elements are constructed in modular manner that assists in the ease of battery assembly and disassembly. Furthermore, ease of anode replenishment is maintained. A multitude of individual cells can now be joined together in an efficient bipolar assembly cell stack for augmented electrical energy generation. In addition to being bipolar, the battery is of rugged construction, providing for dependable, long-life operation that is desirably maintenance-free.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 1989Date of Patent: May 22, 1990Assignee: ELTECH Systems CorporationInventors: Homer L. Turley, Marilyn J. Niksa, Gerald R. Pohto, Andrew J. Niksa
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Patent number: 4925744Abstract: An aqueous electrolyte aluminum-air battery comprises one or more cells, each cell comprising a frame which defines an electrolyte chamber. The frame is made of a rigid material inactive to the electrolyte. The cell has a consumable aluminum anode and an air cathode spaced from the anode by said electrolyte chamber. Means are provided for admitting electrolyte solution into the electrolyte chamber. A vent exposes the electrolyte chamber to atmosphere. A hydrophobic membrane which is impermeable to the passage of the electrolyte but permeable to the passage of hydrogen closes the vent. A surface of each cell anode is exposed to the flow of air. The amount of surface exposed is effective to dissipate heat generated at the anode.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 1989Date of Patent: May 15, 1990Assignee: Eltech Systems CorporationInventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Andrew J. Niksa, Jay M. Noscal
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Patent number: 4923582Abstract: Monopolar, bipolar, and hydrid filter press electrolytic cells for electrolytic processes utilizing a novel method of introducing and removing electrical energy are disclosed. The invention contemplates a novel low pressure, high surface contact area connecting means for joining the anode element and cathode element of electrode assemblies. The invention also contemplates a low pressure, high surface contact area contact of the current distributor member to the back plate.Type: GrantFiled: February 29, 1988Date of Patent: May 8, 1990Assignee: ELTECH Systems CorporationInventors: Donald W. Abrahamson, Marilyn J. Harney, Elvin W. Vauss, Jr., Andrew J. Niksa, James J. Stewart
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Patent number: 4828939Abstract: A bipolar battery assembly of the consumable metal anode type is described. Contact between internal battery elements is now enhanced by air assisted, internally exerted compressive force. Battery elements are constructed in modular manner that assists in the ease of battery assembly and disassembly. Furthermore, ease of anode replenishment is maintained. A multitude of individual cells can now be joined together in an efficient bipolar assembly cell stack for augmented electrical energy generation. In addition to being bipolar, the battery is of rugged construction, providing for dependable, long-life operation that is desirably maintenance-free.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 1987Date of Patent: May 9, 1989Assignee: ELTECH Systems CorporationInventors: Homer L. Turley, Marilyn J. Niksa, Gerald R. Pohto, Andrew J. Niksa
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Patent number: 4788764Abstract: A battery assembly of the consumable metal anode type has now been constructed for ready assembly as well as disassembly. In a non-conductive and at least substantially inert cell body, space is provided for receiving an open-structured, non-consumable anode cage. The cage has an open top for facilitating insertion of an anode. A modular cathode is used, comprising a peripheral current conductor frame clamped about a grid reinforced air cathode in sheet form. The air cathode may be double gridded. The cathode frame can be sealed, during assembly, with electrolyte-resistant-sealant as well as with adhesive. The resulting cathode module can be assembled outside the cell body and readily inserted therein, or can later be easily removed therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 1988Date of Patent: December 6, 1988Assignee: Eltech Systems CorporationInventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Gerald R. Pohto, Leslie K. Lakatos, Douglas J. Wheeler, Frank Solomon, Andrew J. Niksa, Thomas J. Schue, Yury Genodman, Thomas R. Turk, Daniel P. Hagel
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Patent number: 4756980Abstract: A battery assembly of the consumable metal anode type has now been constructed for ready assembly as well as disassembly. In a non-conductive and at least substantially inert cell body, space is provided for receiving an open-structured, non-consumable anode cage. The cage has an open top for facilitating insertion of an anode. A modular cathode is used, comprising a peripheral current conductor frame clamped about a grid reinforced air cathode in sheet form. The air cathode may be double gridded. The cathode frame can be sealed, during assembly, with electrolyte-resistant-sealant as well as with adhesive. The resulting cathode module can be assembled outside the cell body and readily inserted therein, or can later be easily removed therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 1987Date of Patent: July 12, 1988Assignee: Eltech Systems CorporationInventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Gerald R. Pohto, Leslie K. Lakatos, Douglas J. Wheeler, Andrew J. Niksa, Thomas J. Schue, Thomas R. Turk
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Patent number: 4738763Abstract: Monopolar, bipolar, and hybrid filter press electrolytic cells for electrolytic processes utilizing a novel method of introducing and removing electrical energy are disclosed. The invention contemplates a novel low pressure, high surface contact area connecting means for joining the anode element and cathode element of electrode assemblies. The invention also contemplates a low pressure, high surface contact area contact of the current distributor member to the back plate.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 1986Date of Patent: April 19, 1988Assignee: Eltech Systems CorporationInventors: Donald W. Abrahamson, Marilyn J. Harney, Elvin W. Vauss, Jr., Andrew J. Niksa, James J. Stewart
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Patent number: 4693946Abstract: A battery assembly of the consumable metal anode type has now been constructed for ready assembly as well as disassembly. In a non-conductive and at least substantially inert cell body, space is provided for receiving an open-structured, non-consumable anode cage. The cage has an open top for facilitating insertion of an anode. A modular cathode is used, comprising a peripheral current conductor frame clamped about a grid reinforced air cathode in sheet form. The air cathode may be double gridded. The cathode frame can be sealed, during assembly, with electrolyte-resistant-sealant as well as with adhesive. The resulting cathode module can be assembled outside the cell body and readily inserted therein, or can later be easily removed therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 1986Date of Patent: September 15, 1987Assignee: ELTECH Systems CorporationInventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Gerald R. Pohto, Leslie K. Lakatos, Douglas J. Wheeler, Andrew J. Niksa, Thomas J. Schue