Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the generation of steam via the use of a combustion process to produce heat and, in one embodiment, to a device, system and/or method that enables one to control one or more process parameters of a combustion process so as to yield at least one desirable change in at least one downstream parameter. In one embodiment, the present invention relates to measuring or determining at least one process parameter of a combustion system and using the information obtained from same to control at least one component of the combustion system.

Abstract: A system for analyzing the quality of combustion in the vicinity of the over fire zone of a combustion system includes at least one lens assembly mounted to a wall of the combustion system in the vicinity of the over fire zone. One or more photo-detectors are used to measure the intensity of light emitted in the over fire zone. A data acquisition system is connected to the photo-detector assembly via a communication link and includes an analog-to-digital converter and data buffering device for converting the light signals to digital signals. A computer analyzes the digital signals with linear and nonlinear signal analysis techniques.

Abstract: Methods for cyclone boiler flame diagnostics and control, including methods for monitoring the operating state of a cyclone furnace using linear and nonlinear signal analysis techniques, including temporal irreversibility and symbol sequence. Adjustments may be made in the air flow distribution to optimize performance. Signals for the main flame and lighter scanners are relatively independent, thereby allowing for independent control of the primary air flow to the burner and secondary air flow to the barrel.

Abstract: The current invention provides a method and apparatus, which uses symbol sequence techniques, temporal irreversibility, and/or cluster analysis to monitor the operating state of individual burner flames on a appropriate time scale. Both the method and apparatus of the present invention may be used optimize the performance of burner flames.

Abstract: Methods for cyclone boiler flame diagnostics and control, including methods for monitoring the operating state of a cyclone furnace using linear and nonlinear signal analysis techniques, including temporal irreversibility and symbol sequence. Adjustments may be made in the air flow distribution to optimize performance. Signals for the main flame and lighter scanners are relatively independent, thereby allowing for independent control of the primary air flow to the burner and secondary air flow to the barrel.

Abstract: The current invention provides a method and apparatus, which uses symbol sequence techniques and/or temporal irreversibility derived from chaos theory to monitor the operating state of individual burner flames on a appropriate time scale. Both the method and apparatus of the present invention may be used optimize the performance of burner flames.

Abstract: The current invention provides a method and apparatus, which uses symbol sequence techniques and/or temporal irreversibility derived from chaos theory to monitor the operating state of individual burner flames on a appropriate time scale. Both the method and apparatus of the present invention may be used optimize the performance of burner flames.

Abstract: The current invention provides a method and apparatus, which uses symbol sequence techniques and/or temporal irreversibility derived from chaos theory to monitor the operating state of individual burner flames on a appropriate time scale. Both the method and apparatus of the present invention may be used optimize the performance of burner flames.

Abstract: The current invention provides a method and apparatus, which uses symbol sequence techniques and/or temporal irreversibility derived from chaos theory to monitor the operating state of individual burner flames on a appropriate time scale. Both the method and apparatus of the present invention may be used optimize the performance of burner flames.

Abstract: An annular heat-exchange reactor vessel allows for selectively controlled heat transfer between a first fluid and second fluid flowing through the vessel. Optionally, catalyst means may be added to further convert either fluid into a desired end product. In this regard, it is envisioned that the present invention will have particular utility in fuel processing systems. Additional, in-line upstream or downstream annular modules may also be incorporated to create a more complete, efficient and/or compact system. Various methods for constructing this reactor system are also disclosed.

Abstract: A modular fuel processing system has component modules stacked together into a single tower or stacked separately in various configurations in other embodiments. A backbone member having all fluid connections for the modules thereon connects the component modules of the stack(s). The backbone member may contain quick disconnect fittings on each module. The modules of the system are preferably configured using plate-type reactors.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for producing clean, sweet, fuel gas for use in a combustion process and for producing other useful products by processing a waste stream from digestion of lignocellulosic material. Essentially, the waste stream is partially oxidized to form hot gases and molten salts. The hot gases and molten salts are then cooled using a quench liquor to form quenched gas and carbonate liquor. Particles are removed from the quenched gas to form a raw fuel gas, preferably by subjecting the quenched gas to a multi-step fume reduction process which includes heat extraction from the quenched gas to reduce particulate load and water content of the quenched gas to form a low fume fuel gas. H2S is removed from the low fume fuel gas using an H2S removal process which is more selective for H2S than it is for CO2, the removing step forming clean, sweet, fuel gas and acid gases.