Patents Issued in March 11, 2004
  • Publication number: 20040045871
    Abstract: Increased yields of middle distillate products are obtained in a hydrocracking process by the use of a catalyst containing a Beta zeolite which has been hydrothermally treated to adjust the distribution of relatively weak and strong acid sites. The number of strong acid sites is reduced, preferably by steaming at a temperature above 750° C. for at least one hour, with the acidity distribution being measured by pyridine IR adsorption values taken at 150° C., and 300° C., and 450° C.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2001
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Lorenz J. Bauer
  • Publication number: 20040045872
    Abstract: There is provided macrostructures of porous inorganic material which can have controlled size, shape, and/or porosity and a process for preparing the macrostructures. The macrostructures comprise a three-dimension network of particles of porous inorganic materials. The process for preparing the macrostructures involves forming an admixture containing a porous organic ion exchanger and a synthesis mixture capable of forming a porous inorganic material and then converting the synthesis mixture to a solid porous inorganic material. After formation of the composite material, the porous organic ion exchanger can be removed from the composite material to obtain the macrostructures, either before or after the porous inorganic material is hydrothermally treated with a structure directing agent to convert at least a portion of such porous inorganic material to a crystalline molecular sieve composition. The resulting macrostructure is composed of particles of the crystalline molecular sieve composition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Per Johan Sterte, Lubomira Borislavova Tosheva-Jivkova
  • Publication number: 20040045873
    Abstract: Process for the hydrotreatment of a mixture of C4 to C8 hydrocarbon-based compounds, rich in olefins and monoaromatic compounds, by hydrogenation in the presence of a solid catalyst, characterized in that an ammonia precursor is introduced into the charge of hydrocarbon-based compounds and in that the catalyst comprises at least one transition metal supported on at least one refractory oxide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Catherine Olivier, Walter Vermeiren, Jean-Pierre Dath
  • Publication number: 20040045874
    Abstract: A process for desulfurization and, if necessary, for denitrification of hydrocarbon fractions is characterized in that:
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Applicant: Institut Francais du Petrole, Rueil Malmaison Cedex, France
    Inventors: Helene Olivier-Bourbigou, Denis Uzio, Lionel Magna, Fabrice Diehl
  • Publication number: 20040045875
    Abstract: It has been discovered that metals and/or amines can be removed or transferred from a hydrocarbon phase to a water phase in an emulsion breaking process by using a composition that contains water-soluble hydroxyacids. Suitable water-soluble hydroxyacids include, but are not necessarily limited to glycolic acid, gluconic acid, C2-C4 alpha-hydroxy acids, poly-hydroxy carboxylic acids, thioglycolic acid, chloroacetic acid, polymeric forms of the above hydroxyacids, poly-glycolic esters, glycolate ethers, and ammonium salt and alkali metal salts of these hydroxyacids, and mixtures thereof. The composition may also include at least one mineral acid to reduce the pH of the desalter wash water. A solvent may be optionally included in the composition. The invention permits transfer of metals and/or amines into the aqueous phase with little or no hydrocarbon phase undercarry into the aqueous phase.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Tran M. Nguyen, Lawrence N. Kremer, Jerry J. Weers
  • Publication number: 20040045876
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a filter device (1), especially for a fluidised bed system (2) and particularly for use in pharmaceutical industry, for separating particles being larger than a separating grain from an amount of particles in a fluid flow. The filter device (1) comprising a housing (3) and at least one filter portion (4). A part of said housing (3) is mounted for rotational movement, and said filter portion (4) is provided in said housing (3), whereby the filter portion (4) is movable upon rotation of said housing (3). The present invention also relates to a method for separating particles using such a filter device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Hakan Glad
  • Publication number: 20040045877
    Abstract: There is provided exciter apparatus having a cast housing (11) and mounting base (14) secured to mounts bolted to the side plates of screening apparatus. A pair of shafts are mounted for rotation in and extend out of both sides of the cast housing (11). A gear assembly is keyed to each shaft t form a gear train coupling the shafts. The outer ends of each of the shafts are provided with eccentric masses (30) aligned on their respective shafts 180° out of phase. Drive spools (35) are driven by electric motors (not shown). Coupling spools (37) are adapted to accept flexible couplings for joining exciter units together. The gears (26) comprise 9 teeth of an 18-tooth module at 325.0 mm pitch circle diameter (PCD) and 65 mm axial dimension. The lands between the teeth are at a notional diameter 262.6 mm, the teeth having a corresponding notional tooth height of 31.2 mm to the PCD.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Peter Rubie, John Russell, Paul Dalziel, Ben Plant
  • Publication number: 20040045878
    Abstract: A checkweighing station includes a weigh platform mounted on a load cell which in turn is mounted on a rotatable shaft so that the entire assembly can be rotated to tilt the platform in one direction for an acceptable weight of a weighed item and in another direction for a rejected weight or weight of a different catgegory. A memory device can determine a trend and make adjustments in a production process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Applicant: Mettler-Toledo, Inc.
    Inventor: Edward Ratesic
  • Publication number: 20040045879
    Abstract: Devices and methods for determining analyte levels are described. The devices and methods allow for the implantation of analyte-monitoring devices, such as glucose monitoring devices, that result in the delivery of a dependable flow of blood to deliver sample to the implanted device. The devices comprise a unique microarchitectural arrangement in the sensor region that allows accurate data to be obtained over long periods of time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Applicant: DexCom, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark C. Shults, Stuart J. Updike, Rathbun K. Rhodes
  • Publication number: 20040045880
    Abstract: A water treatment control system using a fluorescence analyzer includes an activated carbon injection equipment 4 having an activated carbon injector 4a, a fluorescence analyzer 7 provided on the upstream of the activated carbon injector 4a, and a flowing water flowmeter 6. An activated carbon injection rate necessary to reduce a trihalomethane formation potential is calculated by an activated carbon injection rate calculating apparatus 8 based on a measured value from the fluorescence analyzer 7. An activated carbon injection amount from the activated carbon injector 4a is controlled by an activated carbon injection amount control apparatus 9 based on the activated carbon injection rate and a measured value from the flowing water flowmeter 6.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Applicant: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Seiichi Murayama, Futoshi Kurokawa, Masao Kaneko, Kotaro Iyasu, Kenji Taguchi, Kie Kubo, Shojiro Tamaki, Akira Hiramoto, Takumi Hayashi, Nobuyoshi Kaiga
  • Publication number: 20040045881
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for generating sterile infusion fluid from non-sterile infusion fluid produced by a machine. In one embodiment, the sterile infusion fluid is produced by a sterile fluid generating device that is an ancillary device designed to operate in conjunction with the existing machine. For example, the sterile fluid generating device is used in conjunction with a dialysis machine according to one embodiment resulting in sterile infusion fluid being produced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Gregory R. Collins, James Summerton, Edward Spence
  • Publication number: 20040045882
    Abstract: An apparatus for separating solid particles from the suction effluent of, for example, a dental office, preferably driven by a dental office vacuum pump, includes a surge tank for accommodating effluent overfill connected to a sedimentary deposit tank for sedimentation of effluent particles. A bypass conduit is connected to the surge tank inlet which is equipped with a vacuum break valve for allowing air into the system when the suction openings are closed. The sedimentary deposit tank has a series of baffle chambers through which effluent flows in sequence, and in each of which chambers sediment is deposited for later removal. The surge tank preferably has a liquid level sensor and warning device. Modular filters or adsorbants may be installed in the sedimentary deposit tank, or a modular auxiliary filter may be connected downstream of the tank. Chemical injection may be used to improve sedimentation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Richard H. Chilibeck
  • Publication number: 20040045883
    Abstract: The concept of my invention, the Stormwater Quality In-Pipe Filter, is a stormwater filter that is inserted into the storm pipe itself. The device is lightweight, removes stormwater pollutants and is easy to maintain; which means the public will have access to improved stormwater quality without the large price and maintenance issues associated with many commercial stormwater quality units available today.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Richard A. Miller
  • Publication number: 20040045884
    Abstract: A heated fuel strainer assembly for a fuel tank in a vehicle includes a strainer made of a metal material and adapted to be connected to an inlet of a fuel pump disposed in the fuel tank. The heated fuel strainer assembly also includes a power source connected to the strainer to supply power to the strainer to heat the strainer and allow fuel to flow through the strainer to the inlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Robert A. Roth, John G. Fischer, Mitchal A. Peterson, Mohammed Aslam
  • Publication number: 20040045885
    Abstract: A waste treatment system permitting treatment of organic wastes at low cost is provided. In the waste treatment system, organic wastes such as sewage, garbage and sludge are introduced into a methane fermentation bath for anaerobic fermentation. The methane gas produced in the bath is refined in a gas holder and then supplied to an electric generator, where the methane gas is used as a raw material for power generation. Digested liquid within the methane fermentation bath is supplied to an electrolytic bath via a flow adjustment bath and a fine screen. In the electrolytic bath, the digested liquid is subjected to electrolysis, by applying potentials to an electrode pair in the electrolytic bath based on the electric power obtained by the electric generator. By the electrolysis, nitrogen components including organic nitrogen and ammonia nitrogen, and BOD, SS and phosphorus components are removed from the digested liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Applicant: SANYO ELECTRIC CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Naoki Hiro, Masaki Moriizumi, Jun Hirose, Naoki Kitayama, Fumitake Kondo
  • Publication number: 20040045886
    Abstract: A UV-assisted advanced-ozonation water treatment system comprises a water treating tank 1, an ozonic water tank 2, an ozonized gas generator 3, and a UV light source 4 disposed in the water treating tank 1 and having a UV-radiating surface 4a, and an ozonic water jetting device including jetting nozzles 5 for jetting the ozonic water onto the UV-radiating surface of the UV light source. An ozonized gas diffusing device 12 is placed in the ozonic water tank 2. An ozonized gas generated by the ozonized gas generator 3 and compressed by a compressor 13 at a pressure in the range of about 2 to about 3 kg/cm2 is diffused into the ozonic water tank 2 by the ozonized gas diffusing device 12. A high-pressure, a high-ozone-concentration ozonic water produced in the ozonized water tank 2 is jetted through the jetting nozzles 5 onto the UV-radiating surface 4a.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA
    Inventors: Norimitsu Abe, Setsuo Suzuki, Seiichi Murayama, Kotaro Iyasu, Kie Kubo, Kenji Taguchi
  • Publication number: 20040045887
    Abstract: A device for cleaning liquids, in particular edible oils, by means of a filter in a filter housing, the filter being connected downstream of a pump, and a motor for driving the pump, which has a rotor having a rotor disc with vanes in an immersion housing being provided in a housing, the housing, immersion housing and filter housing together forming a unit which can be at least partially introduced into the liquid which is to be cleaned and removed therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Ivona Posavac, Andreas Schmidt, Zbiginiew Combrowski
  • Publication number: 20040045888
    Abstract: A fluid treatment system comprising at least two cylindrical vessels, wherein each vessel contains at least one treatment medium selected from ion exchange resins, polymeric adsorbents, inorganic adsorbents and activated carbon; each vessel has at each end a flat head and a fractal liquid transfer manifold; and the system comprises at least one membrane degasifier unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Jay Alfred Miers, James Thomas McNulty
  • Publication number: 20040045889
    Abstract: A high conductivity particle filter provides a flow path to subject a fluid stream to a series of turns. The turns require an abrupt directional change for the fluid stream. Traps are positioned in proximity to the turns to capture particles, which have greater inertia than the fluid. The flow path may be a spiral or a series of parallel paths. A cross sectional area of the flow path may be progressively decreased to increase flow velocity and particle inertia.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Applicant: Planar Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Kari Harkonen, Brad Aitchison
  • Publication number: 20040045890
    Abstract: Hollow fiber membrane cassettes (1000) comprising an exterior casing (400), a filter (20) comprising two or more hollow fiber membranes (21), and an internal manifold (50) comprising first and second cassette headers (51, 52), wherein the cassette is arranged to allow feed flow, retentate flow, and permeate flow, and methods for making and using the cassettes, are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Attila Herczeg
  • Publication number: 20040045891
    Abstract: A system and method for integrating microfluidic components in a microfluidic system enables the microfluidic system to perform a selected microfluidic function. A capping module includes a microfluidic element for performing a microfluidic function. The capping module is stacked on a microfluidic substrate having microfluidic plumbing to incorporate the microfluidic function into the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Applicant: Teragenics, Inc.
    Inventors: John Richard Gilbert, Manish Deshpande
  • Publication number: 20040045892
    Abstract: Cross flow filtration cartridges are made using semipermeable membrane of sheet formation that was cast upon an integral polymeric fibrous support material which exhibits excellent permeate flow in the plane thereof and serves as both backing material and permeate carrier. A fibrous support having a thickness between about 0.4 mm and about 2 mm and at least one surface region with a mean pore size no greater than about 300 microns has a semipermeable membrane cast in situ thereupon from a liquid solution. After gelling to form a polymeric semipermeable membrane, the product is spirally wound about a porous tube in association with feed-passageway-providing sheet material, but in the absence of any separate permeate carrier, to form an effective cross-flow filtration cartridge wherein the feed flow may be spiral and the permeate discharge through one of the side edges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Deborah De La Cruz
  • Publication number: 20040045893
    Abstract: A hollow fiber membrane cartridge wherein a cartridge head and a bottom ring are connected and fixed to each other by means of a plurality of rods or pipes, the hollow portion at the end of each hollow fiber membrane on the cartridge head side is open, the hollow portion at the end of each hollow fiber membrane on the bottom ring side is sealed, and a plurality of through-holes are provided in an adhesion and fixation layer on the bottom ring side and are located in a bundle of the hollow fiber membranes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Akihiro Watanabe, Yuzuru Ishibashi, Katsuhiko Hamanaka
  • Publication number: 20040045894
    Abstract: A stainless steel filter assembly which filters fluid entering a fluid interactive device, such as a gas analyzer, includes a connection block in the line which has lateral ports for coupling with an inlet coupling and an outlet coupling on a filter. The filter has a folded filter media made of sintered stainless steel panels which are separated by stainless steel screens that increase the surface area of the filter media exposed to the inlet stream of fluid to be filtered.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Applicant: NUCLEAR FILTER TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Michael D. Peterson, Darold M. Popish, Terry J. Wickland, Craig Washburn
  • Publication number: 20040045895
    Abstract: A pool skimmer basket kit for cleaning pool water is provided, which includes: a first skimmer basket having a peripheral wall portion and a bottom wall portion, each wall portion of the first skimmer basket defining therein a plurality of perforations of a first size; and a second skimmer basket having a peripheral wall portion and a bottom wall portion, each wall portion of the second skimmer basket defining therein a plurality of perforations of a second size. The pool skimmer basket kit of the invention may further include a third skimmer basket, the third skimmer basket having a peripheral wall portion and a bottom wall portion, each wall portion of the third skimmer basket defining therein a plurality of perforations of a third size. Each skimmer basket has a different color to one another for facilitating identification by the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Jonathan J. Bonelli, Matt Cowdell, Mitchell Saccoccio
  • Publication number: 20040045896
    Abstract: The invention provides a separating agent for enantiomeric isomers which has the characteristic ability to identify asymmetry. The separating agent includes as an effective component an aromatic polysaccharide derivative having a C10 or higher alkoxy group as a substituent on the aromatic group.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Yoshio Okamoto, Chiyo Yamamoto
  • Publication number: 20040045897
    Abstract: A modified hollow-fiber membrane which has improved surface hydrophilicity without increasing the amount of components released therefrom, is less apt to interact with living-body components, does not adsorb proteins, and is less apt to deteriorate in performance. The hollow-fiber membrane has a copolymer of 2-methacryloyloxyethylphosphorylcholine and other polymerizable vinyl monomer held on a surface of the membrane, the copolymer being present on the surface in a higher concentration than in other parts of the membrane. The modified hollow-fiber membrane is useful in medical applications such as hemodialysis and blood filtration and in the medical industry, food industry etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Nobuo Nakabayashi, Kazuhiko Ishihara, Shinji Miyazaki, Kazuo Imamura, Ken Suzuki, Koji Kamenosono
  • Publication number: 20040045898
    Abstract: Waste-treatment processes are enhanced through generation and introduction of specific biological populations customized to perform or favor specific, tasks either during the main process, or for solids minimization purposes in a post-treatment process. These bacteria may be grown from specialized mixes of activated sludge and waste influent by exposing these materials to controlled environments (e.g., in an off-line treatment area). They may then be added back to the main process to perform certain tasks such as converting particulate cBOD into soluble cBOD for utilization, to reduce high solids yield organisms by supplementing the population with low yield organisms, to improve nitrification/denitrification efficiency, or to disfavor filamentous biology such as Norcardia sp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Daniel Miklos
  • Publication number: 20040045899
    Abstract: A collapsible water treatment digester includes a flexible bladder, a frame, and a plurality of filter plates. The flexible bladder is movable from a collapsed position wherein the bladder is folded into a substantially flattened state to an expanded position wherein the bladder forms a water treatment chamber. The frame is connected to the bladder so as to support the bladder in the expanded position. The filter plates are disposed within the water treatment chamber of the bladder so as to cause a substantial portion of the solids from a wastewater stream introduced into the water treatment chamber to produce a reconditioned water stream dischargeable from the bladder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Mary Humphrey, John B. Rice
  • Publication number: 20040045900
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for treating wastewater comprising aerobic microbes and an upflow anaerobic reactor in which the wastewater including various substances such as non-degradable and toxic materials and organic substances could be decomposed biologically. Anaerobic bio-reaction effect could be maximized by maintaining uniformity of inflowing wastewater and recycle sludge or by deferring the heights of inlets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Seung Yeup Nam, Joong Chun Kwon
  • Publication number: 20040045901
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for building a lagoon based advanced treatment system or upgrading an existing lagoon system for advanced treatment of wastewater. The lagoon is provided with a baffle to create a complete mix zone in which an aeration system and bioconcentration modules are installed. Biological solids are concentrated in the modules and drop through their open bottoms where the solids are recirculated and mixed by the aeration system. Once a biomass equilibrium is reached in the complete mix zone, excess solids are passed into the rest of the lagoon for standard treatment there. The complete mix zone is operated as a low rate activated sludge process with a detention time much less than for the rest of the lagoon, maintaining sufficient heat and sludge aging to effect complete biological nitrification and/or denitrification.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Charles E. Tharp, Randall C. Chann
  • Publication number: 20040045902
    Abstract: A process for extracting and purifying naturally occurring zeolite from ores in the presence of other mineral phases by using mechanical dispersion and differential suspension to remove a majority of the clay content of the ore. The process continues by removal of contaminants with a higher mass to surface area ratio than that of the desired zeolite product by employing the properties of demineralized water in combination with a countercurrent flow separation column. No chemical flocculating or flotation agents need be employed in the process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Billy D. Fellers
  • Publication number: 20040045903
    Abstract: The invention relates to methods of treating contaminated fluids especially formalin. The device being able to pass a large volume of solid, lipid and cell contaminated material through it and being stable from shipping problems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Applicant: Creative Waste Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Rexford Charles Johnson
  • Publication number: 20040045904
    Abstract: A microchip-based electrospray ionization device and column with affinity adsorbents is disclosed. The invention includes a microchip array and a capillary tube or alone or attached in combination. At least a portion of the device or column has immobilized affinity adsorbents. Methods for using the device are provided as well for affinity capture of biomolecules to meet the needs for the modem life sciences such as proteomics and drug discover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Sheng Zhang, Xian Huang
  • Publication number: 20040045905
    Abstract: A method for treatment of organic-based material comprising contacting the organic-based material with solid waste material from the treatment of cooking oils. The treatment may comprise a clean-up of said organic-based materials, particularly clean up of an oil spill on a body of water. The solid waste material may be applied directly to the oil or it may be placed in bags prior to placing it on an oil spill. The solid waste material from the treatment of cooking oils is the solid waste product used in the treatment of cooking oils and cooking fats for the purpose of removing undesirable compounds that affect flavour, colour and odour therefrom. The solid waste material from the treatment of cooking oils typically comprise particulate material, such as acid-activated clays, that are loaded with adsorbed compounds and contain residual oils from the treatment process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Gordon John Churchman, Jennifer Susan Anderson
  • Publication number: 20040045906
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the treatment of a solution that contains colorants and, in particular, compositions and methods for the removal of colorants from a solution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Phil Wiseman
  • Publication number: 20040045907
    Abstract: A stormwater pollutant separator system is provided with the system having a stormwater pollutant separator, a by-pass system, an intake conduit and an outflow conduit connected together. The stormwater pollutant separator includes a chamber with a weir plate and siphon plate therein. The chamber has first, second, and third sections. The first section is located between the chamber first end and the weir plate. The second section is located between the weir plate and siphon plate. The third section is located between the siphon plate and the chamber second end. In one embodiment the third section has filter material placed intermediate the siphon (sometimes referred to as the second weir) plate and the second end plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Patrick X. Collings
  • Publication number: 20040045908
    Abstract: A method for substantially reducing cyanide and formate concentrations in gasification wastewater streams comprising first removing suspended solids from the wastewater stream, then adding sufficient hydrogen peroxide to completely oxidize contained cyanide ions and formate ions to form a feed solution, and then irradiating the resultant solution with sufficient UV light so as to substantially reduce said contained cyanide ions and formate ions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Dinh-Cuong Vuong, Byron Von Klock
  • Publication number: 20040045909
    Abstract: The present invention provides a humidifier capable of removing microorganisms without using electric power. The humidifier includes a reservoir; a humidification system including a humidification filter arranged such that at least part thereof is immersed in water and a blowing means for discharging air through the humidification filter; and a microorganism remover including a first electrode and a second electrode having different electric potentials and opposing to each other to have a space therebetween and a short circuit part for causing a short circuit between the first and second electrodes. The first electrode is higher than the second electrode in electric potential and at least the first and second electrodes are arranged in contact with water in the reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Applicants: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd., Matsushita Ecology Systems Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshikazu Tomioka, Takahiro Nakajima, Jun Inagaki, Yoshihito Nakanishi, Tetsuya Yoshida
  • Publication number: 20040045910
    Abstract: In order to use so-called gray water for the flushing of toilets, for example in a conveyance such as a passenger aircraft, the gray water is passed through at least one filter, preferably through a coarse filter followed by a fine filter, into a treatment tank where it is anodically oxidized. The rinsing is performed by a pump that may be a rotary pressure pump or a piston cylinder pump. The pump passes the processed or oxidized water through an excess pressure valve and through at least one spray nozzle into a toilet bowl.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Claus Hoffjann, Hans-Juergen Heinrich
  • Publication number: 20040045911
    Abstract: A method of treating a site containing contaminants and apparatus are described The method and apparatus sparges the site with an air/ozone gas stream delivered with a hydroperoxide, which is a substantial byproduct of a reaction of a contaminant present in the aquifer or soil formation with the ozone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: William B. Kerfoot
  • Publication number: 20040045912
    Abstract: A collection device (10) or a recovery device (13) made up of several interconnected collection devices is usable in a method for collecting a floating liquid, e.g., oil, from the surface of a body of a first liquid, e.g., water. Recovery device (13) includes one or more collection devices (110, 210, 310, 410), each of which includes a flotation member (112, 212, 312, 412) having a first regulator frame (114, 214, 314, 414) connected to a receiving tray (118, 218, 318, 418) having a suction port (120, 220, 320, 420). The respective suction ports of the receiving trays are connected to one or more pumps (22, 22′, 24, 24′) which transport the collected floating liquid from the receiving trays to a collection conduit (34). A liquid separator (36) may be connected to the collection conduit (34) for receiving the collected liquids and separating them. The pumps may be operated by movement of the body of liquid on which the device (13) floats, such as the natural wave action of a body of water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Paul L. Guilmette
  • Publication number: 20040045913
    Abstract: A positive pressure disc-type filtration apparatus (10) including a collection trough (40) internal to the cylindrical pressure vessel housing the filter discs (24). The collection trough (40) is entirely disposed within the cylinder of the pressure vessel (12) and configured and located to receive and direct filter cake removed from the discs (24) and then reslurried and sluiced toward the center of the trough using jets of liquid (32), to be discharged longitudinally centrally through a single outlet extending downwardly from the trough and through the wall of the pressure vessel (12). A method of filtration is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Peter J. Flanagan
  • Publication number: 20040045914
    Abstract: A revolving gun safety cabinet for holding and securing a plurality of rifles, shotguns and pistols. The revolving gun safety cabinet is made up of a multisided cabinet shell, a multisided storage compartment base used to support the multisided cabinet shell and to store gun accessories and supplies, a vertical post set within the center of the multisided exterior cabinet shell and a relatively large lower horizontal disk adapted to receive the butts of the rifles and shotguns held vertically upright within the revolving gun safety cabinet. There is also a relatively small upper horizontal disk adapted to receive the barrels of rifles and shotguns held vertically upright within the revolving gun safety cabinet and a locking mechanism to secure the rifles and shotguns to the vertical post.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Rex R. Sells, Todd Webster
  • Publication number: 20040045915
    Abstract: A shoe rack for mounting to an upright surface, or for hanging over a door, includes a pair of plastic, vertical side frame members and a plurality of shoe-retaining bars positioned between the side frame members upon which shoes, boxes and the like may be supported. A number of different embodiments are shown, each of which incorporates different features, and each of which may result in improved structural integrity over the prior art. Further, each embodiment may result in a product that is less expensive to manufacture and may result in a product which retains shoes on the shoe rack in a different, or better, manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Richard B. Klein, Chris Serslev, John W. Scott
  • Publication number: 20040045916
    Abstract: A shoe rack for mounting to an upright surface, or for hanging over a door, includes a pair of plastic, vertical side frame members and a plurality of shoe-retaining bars positioned between the side frame members upon which shoes, boxes and the like may be supported. A number of different embodiments are shown, each of which incorporates different features, and each of which may result in improved structural integrity over the prior art. Further, each embodiment may result in a product that is less expensive to manufacture and may result in a product which retains shoes on the shoe rack in a different, or better, manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Richard B. Klein, Chris Serslev, John W. Scott
  • Publication number: 20040045917
    Abstract: A shoe rack for mounting to an upright surface, or for hanging over a door, includes a pair of plastic, vertical side frame members and a plurality of shoe-retaining bars positioned between the side frame members upon which shoes, boxes and the like may be supported. A number of different embodiments are shown, each of which incorporates different features, and each of which may result in improved structural integrity over the prior art. Further, each embodiment may result in a product that is less expensive to manufacture and may result in a product which retains shoes on the shoe rack in a different, or better, manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Richard B. Klein, Chris Serslev, John W. Scott
  • Publication number: 20040045918
    Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of jewel case enclosed CDs in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired CD is moved to the top region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. In one embodiment a holder retains a single jewel case, and comprises two independent loops that are rotated with a single motor. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two jewel cases in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of CD selection. The housing base preferably is detached during shipping to permit transporting the rack in a smaller volume container. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Applicant: Sharper Image Corporation
    Inventors: Charles E. Taylor, Edward C. McKinney, Tristan M Christianson, Andrew J. Parker
  • Publication number: 20040045919
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a vertical support standard and track into which the standard can be mounted. The standard contains a plurality of slots in its front surface such that one or more ordinary shelving brackets can be mounted thereon, and contains an opening on its back surface such that it can be mounted to a track upon which the wall standard may be able to slide. The track contains a lip and support portion. The lip extends over the front of the standard to keep it mounted to the track, and the support portion can be inserted into the opening on the back of the standard to provide added support and to allow sliding of the standard if desired. This standard and track configuration thus not only allows greater flexibility for the consumer as to the placement of shelving brackets, but provides greater support and increased loading capacity such that more items can be placed on a shelf that is mounted to the disclosed shelving system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Lee Remmers
  • Publication number: 20040045920
    Abstract: A shelf includes a plurality of integrated hook members supporting a rod member to provide free movement of items supported by the rod member. The hook members are integrally connected to support members of the shelf deck to support the rod member for use in, for example, hanging items thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Lee E. Remmers