Abstract: An adaptable evaporative element for a humidifier or the like is described. It includes an evaporative element having at least one fold, such that the size of the evaporative element is adaptable by varying said evaporative element between a folded and an unfolded configuration.

Abstract: An expandable media filter structure is composed largely of biodegradable materials and is environmentally disposable. A plurality of pleated panels are interconnected at their edges so as to be collapsible for storage and shipping purposes but expandable for installation and use. A plurality of ribbons are ultrasonically welded to each of the panel edges, with the ribbon portions between edges being of substantially equal lengths, thereby maintaining equal spacing between the panel edges when the filter is in the expanded condition but allowing an easy collapsing of the filter for storage. Forming a part of the disposable filter are pair of end plates, with each being adhesively attached to an end panel and having a pair of slots formed near their ends for attachment to a nondisposable support structure. The end panels are formed of multiple layers of paperboard which are adhesively bonded and compressed into a U-shaped structure that rigidly supports the filter in its expanded condition.

Abstract: An expandable media filter structure is composed largely of biodegradable materials and is environmentally disposable. A plurality of pleated panels are interconnected at their edges so as to be collapsible for storage and shipping purposes but expandable for installation and use. A plurality of ribbons are ultrasonically welded to each of the panel edges, with the ribbon portions between edges being of substantially equal lengths, thereby maintaining equal spacing between the panel edges when the filter is in the expanded condition but allowing an easy collapsing of the filter for storage. Forming a part of the disposable filter are pair of end plates, with each being adhesively attached to an end panel and having a pair of slots formed near their ends for attachment to a nondisposable support structure. The end panels are formed of multiple layers of paperboard which are adhesively bonded and compressed into a U-shaped structure that rigidly supports the filter in its expanded condition.

Abstract: A decorative humidifier and fountain apparatus containing water for simultaneously humidifying and purifying air is disclosed that produces soothing sights and sounds as well as efficiently cleaned and humidified air. It includes a housing and a water distributor for forming a water curtain from the water. The water curtain has a first portion and a second portion. An evaporative filter element is sized and proportioned to humidify and filter the air as it passes through the fountain. A pool is positioned so as to receive the water from the water curtain. Water is circulated from the pool to the water distributor with a water circulating means. An air circulator draws air through the first portion of the water curtain, forcing air through the evaporative element, then forcing air through the second portion of the water curtain.

Abstract: An adaptable evaporative element for a humidifier or the like is described. It includes an evaporative element having a fold, such that the size of said evaporative element is adaptable by varying said evaporative element between a folded and an unfolded configuration. Alternate embodiments use a hinge over a portion of the thickness of the evaporative element, separable layers or an attached cutting guide as additional means of adapting the evaporative element.

Abstract: An evaporative element or cartridge especially useful in humidifiers comprises a plurality of stacked slit and expanded wicking paper layers, and means for supporting the wicking paper. The supporting means may comprise a layer of slit and expanded metal sandwiched in between the stacked wicking paper layers. The stacked wicking paper and metal layers are held together with an adhesive. Alternatively, the supporting means may comprise a rigid frame on the side edges of the stacked wicking paper layers, the frame having prongs engaging the wicking paper layers. Each layer of stacked wicking paper is staggered with respect to adjoining layers. The wicking paper has superior capillary rise of 79 to 112 mm/min.