Abstract: To provide a golf club shaft that can provide a moderate rigidity and enhance an impact strength. A shaft 6 includes full length layers s3, s4, s7, s8 and s9 provided wholly in a longitudinal direction of the shaft, and tip end partial layers s1, s2, s10, s11 and s12 provided on a tip end part of the shaft. The full length layers include bias layers s3 and s4 and straight layers s8 and s9. The tip end partial layer includes an inner glass fiber reinforced layer s1, and an outer low elastic carbon fiber reinforced layer s10 or an outer glass fiber reinforced layer s10 which is disposed outside the inner glass fiber reinforced layer s1. The low elastic carbon fiber has a tensile elastic modulus of 22 ton/mm2 or less. In the shaft 6, a shaft weight in terms of 46 inches is 55 g or less.

Abstract: A golf tee having a contact alert coating cooperates with a golf ball and a golf club to provide a novel training aid that is economical, compact, and encourages proper golfing form. The golf tee has a golf tee body with a top plate, top wall and side walls. The top plate is fixedly attached to a shaft which terminates into a point that is inserted into a ground surface when a ball is placed on the top plate. A contact alert coating is coated on at least an upper portion of the golf tee body. The contact alert coating is composed of a material that generates a spark and, preferably, an audible sound when a golf club head strikes the ball and strikes the contact alert coating of the golf tee at the coating/golf tee interface. Generation of the spark and, preferably, the audible sound provides an alert that immediately informs the user whether the user's golf swing has been properly executed.

Abstract: A hockey-stick blade includes a reinforcing frame that provides improved strength, rigidity, and impact resistance. The reinforcing frame may be continuous along the top, bottom, and toe edges of the hockey-stick blade. The reinforcing frame optionally is a tubular structure made of fiber-reinforced epoxy resin. The interior of the reinforcing frame may include a core made of a resilient material, such as an expandable syntactic foam. Fiber reinforcement may also be included in the frame's construction.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein describe systems and methods for a retrieval tool, which is configured to secure object in place within the retrieval tool responsive to the object engaging with the retrieval tool. The retrieval tool may be utilized to grasp, secure, hold, etc. objects in a plurality of different circumstances, such as disc golf, grasping an object at a hard to reach place, more easily holding an object, etc.

Abstract: An athletic training device for selectively and removably urging a user's limbs together is provided. The device includes two arm/leg cuffs, each having a flexible band with securing means for removably securing the band to a user's limb. Extending from each band is a spacer component having a sidewall and a top wall. Located on or within the top wall is a magnet. The magnets in each cuff are configured with opposing polarity so that the top walls of each cuff are urged together when placed in close proximity to one another. The device can be used by securing each cuff around a user's arms/legs. When the user places his/her arms/legs in close proximity to one another, the magnets urge the cuffs in an attached arrangement and the user can only separate his/her arms/legs by intentionally applying a separating force sufficient to overcome the force of the magnets.

Abstract: A sports apparatus, comprising: at least two support columns, and at least two base structures coupled to the at least two support columns. At least one horizontal support bar is coupled to the at least two support columns. The at least one horizontal support bar is moveable and/or adjustable, and comprises at least two openings. At least one connector, disposed entirely below the lower surface of the at least one horizontal support bar, comprises at least two connecting point coupling the at least one connector to the at least one horizontal support bar at a lower surface of the at least one horizontal support bar by engaging with the at least two openings in the at least one horizontal support bar.

Abstract: A folding structure (2), is provided to which one or more rollers (3) are coupled, which is constituted by an articulated one-piece construction, formed of straight sections (2a, 2b) joined together with articulated joints that rotate around a vertical axis (4) and movement of the sections on the horizontal plane, and hinged joints that rotate around a horizontal axis (5) and movement of the sections on the vertical plane. In a use position, it has a rectangular frame shape, while in a folded position it forms an elongated and flat compact block. The upper part of the structure (2) has recesses (8) with protruding nipples (9), suitable for being inserted into holes (10) made on the ends (3a) of the roller (3) axis; while dampers (11) are disposed in the lower part. There is a joint that rotates around a vertical axis (4), and another hinged joint that rotates around a horizontal axis (5).

Abstract: A green simulation apparatus having a configurable upper surface with a changeable contour may comprise a covering forming the upper surface and a covering support assembly configured to support the covering. The support assembly may comprise a plurality of movable positioning elements having the covering resting thereon and positioned in an array extending in a reference plane and movable along axes extending substantially perpendicular to the reference plane. The support assembly may comprise a movement actuator configured to move at least one of the positioning elements independently of other positioning elements in the array. The plurality of positioning elements may include active positioning elements and passive positioning elements, with the active positioning elements being associated with a movement actuator and the passive positioning elements not being associated with a movement actuator.

Abstract: A green simulation apparatus having a configurable upper surface with a changeable contour may comprise a covering forming the upper surface and a covering support assembly configured to support the covering. The support assembly may comprise a plurality of movable positioning elements having the covering resting thereon and positioned in an array extending in a reference plane and movable along axes extending substantially perpendicular to the reference plane. The support assembly may comprise a movement actuator configured to move at least one of the positioning elements independently of other positioning elements in the array. The plurality of positioning elements may include active positioning elements and passive positioning elements, with the active positioning elements being associated with a movement actuator and the passive positioning elements not being associated with a movement actuator.

Abstract: A putting trainer, as described herein, is used for practicing golfing with a golf club with a head. The putting trainer is for use on a generally smooth putting surface. The putting trainer has a body and at least one obstacle.

Abstract: An exercise system comprising: an exercise mat; a plurality of sensors integrated into the exercise mat, each of the sensors configured to sense when a force is applied to a respective portion of the exercise mat; a plurality of displays coupled to the exercise mat and configured to display indications corresponding to desired locations for body parts of a user in accordance with an exercise routine; at least one processor disposed in communication with the plurality of sensors and the plurality of displays; and memory storing at least one exercise routine for use with the exercise mat and instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, configures the exercise system to: display on one or more of the displays indications corresponding to desired locations of a user's body part in accordance with a form of one of the exercise routines stored in memory; sense by one or more of the sensors an application of force to the exercise mat; determine that a location of the sensed application of force is

Abstract: An apparatus which damps oscillation in a ski, the apparatus comprising an enclosure, a cavity encompassed by the enclosure, and an aggregate located in the cavity. The cavity has a dimension in a direction perpendicular to a gliding surface of the ski which is larger than a thickness of the ski in a location adjacent to the enclosure. The aggregate, in its tapped density, occupies substantially less volume than a volume of the cavity, thereby allowing significant travel of the aggregate in the cavity. Oscillation accelerates and decelerates the enclosure, resulting in accelerations and decelerations of the aggregate which cause it to acquire and lose kinetic energy. The aggregate's acquisition and loss of kinetic energy attenuates the oscillation.

Abstract: The present invention is a skin cleat device for increasing grip while ski touring. The skin cleat is configured to be attached around a ski by a skier without disengaging the ski boot from the skis and can be removed and re-attached depending on the needs of the user. The skin cleat is a strap-like device that includes two end sections and a studded central section there-between. The central section is intended to be placed underneath the base of the ski and skin such that the studs extend into the snow. The two end sections can be attached together by a coupling to form a continuous structure around the waist of the ski. Using the coupling, the structure can be tightened around the ski securing it in place and preventing the skin cleat from rotating around the ski or the studs from moving substantially when in use.

Abstract: A method, system and apparatus for carrying a user including a board for supporting the user, a ground-contacting member coupled with the board, a motorized drive assembly coupled with the ground-contacting member and one or more sensors coupled with the drive assembly. In operation, the drive assembly adjusts the velocity of the ground-contacting member based on one or more distances of the board from a surface below the board as detected by the sensors. As a result, the system is able to maintain a desired velocity when ascending, descending or traversing uneven ground without the need for excessive and sometimes impossible tilting of the board.

Abstract: Card handling devices may include a card shuffling apparatus and a card output portion having a card buffer area positioned at an interface of the card shuffling apparatus and the card output portion. The card output portion may be configured to move relative to the card shuffling apparatus and alter the orientation of the card buffer area. Card handling devices having a substantially flat card output area may include an interface portion having an at least substantially flat draw surface. The substantially flat card output area may permit playing cards to be drawn from an outlet of the substantially flat card output area in a plurality of at least substantially horizontal directions. Methods of shuffling playing cards may include altering an orientation of a card buffer area and inserting cards into the card buffer area at both a top and a bottom of a group of cards within the card buffer area.

Abstract: A dice angle game is played on an apparatus that preferably has a flat playing surface, two side walls, two end walls, two barriers, scoring areas between the barriers and the adjacent end walls, and a plurality of dice. The game is played by rolling a dice against a side wall and trying to have it land in a scoring area.

Abstract: A gaming machine and method of play providing a predetermined top game symbol that can replace adjacent symbols to expand possible winning outcomes and payouts for winning outcomes in connection with a “ways to win” game format. The machine and method defining an expanding property applicable to the top symbol, and where the top symbol and expanding property are displayed together in the same game position, the top symbol being propagated to replace other symbols presented on the same reel. A configuration of identical game symbols on displayable game positions of adjacent reels establishing winning outcomes and payouts.

Abstract: An electronic device with one or more processors and memory stores one or more respective sound effect units in association with each of a plurality of scene elements used in a game. The electronic device obtains a scene element template for a respective scene in the game, the scene element template including one or more constituent scene elements of the respective scene. The electronic device also selects one or more corresponding sound effect units for each of the one or more constituent scene elements in the scene element template for the respective scene. The electronic device further generates a composite sound effect for the respective scene using the selected sound effect units.

Abstract: Various embodiments are directed to techniques for reducing electric power employed by devices of a game play monitoring system that collects data during game play in a sport. An apparatus may include an interaction detection component to monitor an interaction sensor of a playing piece to detect an interaction with a body, generate playing piece data recording an aspect of the interaction and determine whether the interaction maintains the playing piece within a close proximity to the body; and a communications component to use electric power from a power source to wirelessly transmit the playing piece data to a player device carried by the body via shorter range wireless communications or to an access point device via longer range wireless communications based on the determination, the shorter range wireless communications to consume electric power of the power source at a lesser rate. Other embodiments are described and claimed.

Abstract: An interactive gaming toy is provided for playing a game having both physical and virtual gameplay elements. The gaming toy comprises a physical toy, such as a toy wand, doll or action figure, having an RFID tag pre-programmed with a unique identifier that identifies the toy within an associated computer-animated game. The RFID tag stores information describing certain attributes or abilities of a corresponding virtual character or object in the computer-animated game. Additional information may be stored on the RFID tag as the corresponding virtual character evolves or changes over time based on player performance and/or gameplay progression. The interactive gaming toy thus allows developed character attributes and the like to be stored and easily transported to other games and compatible gaming platforms. One or more optional auxiliary components may be attached to the gaming toy to selectively create a modified gaming toy having additional desired functionality and/or aesthetics.

Abstract: An operating device has an operating shaft, engagement protrusions, and a movable body. The movable body can rotate relative to the operating shaft. The movable body engages with the engagement protrusions at positions separate from its rotation center. The movable body rotates relative to the operating shaft through the engagement with the engagement protrusions according to the translation of the operating shaft. A base abuts against the movable body in the rotational direction of this movable body and receives a force due to the movement of the operating shaft from the movable body. Sensors detect the force acting on the base. According to this, an operating device having a novel structure allowing detection of the translation of the operating shaft is implemented.

Abstract: Simulated video game channel systems and methods are disclosed that allows users to connect their video game consoles to a device, such as a set-top box, and to then connect over a gaming channel that is identified by an electronic programming guide (EPG). Both audiovisual broadcast content channels and video game channels are displayed on the same integrated EPG. An individual may either watch the video game action or participate in the video game. A video game channel may be either public, viewable by all service provider subscribers, or private, viewable to only a subset of subscribers. The system also analyzes the video gaming habits of the user to determine recommendations for audiovisual broadcast content and video on demand content to present to the user.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an online flash game system and method, a flash game web page providing method, a web server for providing web pages for flash game execution, and a storage medium for recording method programs. When a flash game execution is selected, a skin flash module performs a skin flash, which is a frame on a flash game screen, on a user terminal screen, and controls a UI flash module and a game contents flash module. The skin flash module displays the skin flash, which is a frame on the flash game screen, on the user terminal screen, and controls the UI flash module and the game contents flash module.

Abstract: A bingo game system provides for new features and functionality for a bingo game platform, including a bingo listener for relaying messages from a bingo broadcaster to at least one mobile client device (e.g., via a bingo connection proxy).

Abstract: A method is provided, including: receiving, over a network by a cloud gaming server computer, a request from a client device to initiate gameplay of a cloud video game; responsive to the request, assigning the client device to a first data center from which to stream the gameplay of the cloud video game; responsive to the request, initiating transfer of user save data over the network from a second data center to the first data center; loading the cloud video game on a cloud gaming machine at the first data center, the loading of the cloud video game including loading of generic save data; initiating interactive gameplay of the cloud video game with the generic save data; during the interactive gameplay, completing the transfer of the user save data to the first data center; applying the user save data to update the execution of the cloud video game.

Abstract: A method of and system for handling latency issues encountered in producing real-time entertainment such as games of skill synchronized with live or taped televised events is described herein. There are multiple situations that are dealt with regarding latencies in receiving a television signal with respect to real-time entertainment based on the unfolding games played along with the telecasts. Systemic delays, arbitrarily imposed delays of a broadcast signal and variances in the precise broadcast times of taped television programs have to be equalized so as to provide fair entertainment.

Abstract: A computer performs a process for displaying an object string and a player object within a game screen, the object string including a main object, and at least one sub-object that is connected to the main object, the player object being an object that can be operated by a player, and virtual walls that limit a moving direction of each of the main object, the sub-object and the player object being provided within the game screen. The motion of the player object within the game screen is controlled in response to an operation performed by the player. The motion mode of the object string is switched from a first mode to a second mode or a third mode based on a given condition, the second mode being a mode in which the object string is inferior as compared with the first mode, and the third mode being a mode in which the main object is superior as compared with the first mode.

Abstract: A gaming device, during play of a particular game, receives a plurality of audio channels carrying game sounds and determines whether a first of the game sounds overwhelms a second of the game sounds. In response to the determination, the gaming device adjusts a level of one or more of the audio channels such that perceptibility of the second game sound is improved relative to perceptibility of the first game sound prior to the adjustment, wherein for the adjustment, a level of one or more of the audio channels carrying the first game sound is decreased while a level of one or more of the audio channels carrying the second game sound is maintained or increased. The audio channels include three or more audio channels and the adjustment of the level of the audio channels is performed while the three or more audio channels are combined into two stereo channels.

Abstract: Some embodiments herein include systems, methods, and software for IR object identification and motion detection. Consumers may project an interactive projection surface on the wall or floor of any room, and when IR object motion is detected, the interactive projection may update in response to the motion. A newly introduced IR object may be identified, and an effect specific to the IR object may be projected into the IR object.

Abstract: A player model for a video game is generated based on inputs received from users who have played past versions of the game. The player model can be used to simulate user actions in a new version of the video game and make predictions about average user session length, average earnings per session, number of games played per day, etc. More than one player model may be generated for a game. Each player model for a game may represent one or more features, such as a user skill level, for a group of users.

Abstract: Embodiments of systems presented herein may identify users to include in a match plan. A parameter model may be generated to predict the retention time of a set of users. A queue of potential users, a set of teammates, and/or opponents may be selected from a queue of waiting users. User information for the set of teammates and/or opponents may be provided to the parameter model to generate a predicted retention time. The set of teammates and/or opponents may be approved if the predicted retention time meets a predetermined threshold. Advantageously, by creating a match plan based on retention rates, the engagement and/or retention level for a number of users may be improved compared to existing multiplayer matching systems.

Abstract: In a cloud computing system having a plurality of computational resources that are connected via a network, a table display section displays, on a terminal used by a user using the cloud computing system, a table showing a list of thumbnail movies of execution screens of applications that can be provided on arbitrary dates and times to the user, the table assigning the thumbnail movies to specified dates and times. A movie selection acceptance section acquires the user's selection from the thumbnail movies shown in the table. An application provision part provides an application, associated with the thumbnail movie selected by the user, to the user.

Abstract: Features are described to use data from game play to construct social networks of users. For example determining that a user played a game with a certain player, a certain number of times, can indicate compatibility between the user and the player. The compatibility may suggest the potential for a social network connection between the user and the player. Social network connections could be within the particular game platform, or the connection may be outside the game such as via other social networking platforms. In addition, a type of connection via the service may be identified. For example, some services allow users to follow or friend other users, where each type of connection is associated with different data security features.

Abstract: In an example embodiment, a yoyo includes an axle, a first body and a second body coupled to the axle, and a string windable about the axle within a gap between the first body and the second body. The first body includes an outer rim and multiple propeller blades that extend inward from the outer rim toward the axle. The gap between the first body and the second body is smaller than three times a diameter of the string. A diameter of the axle is no larger than one sixth of the diameter of the first or second outer rim. An aggregate mass of the first and second outer rims is at least one quarter of an aggregate mass of the yoyo, string excluded.

Abstract: A system for interconnecting discrete rigid member mating components creates different stable, freestanding three-dimensional figures such as robots. The mating components are positioned in tandem employ an elastic element through bores and each mating component has at least one slot that is aligned with a corresponding slot formed on adjacent mating component or body. The arrangement of the slots and elastic element permits each mating components to be maneuvered onto an adjacent mating component and retains its position without the use of hinges or other securing devices. A reconfigurable toy is constructed by interconnecting a plurality of different sized mating components. The mating components can thus be rearranged to form different-shaped figures including a robot that is reversibly transformable between a first configuration, which can comprise a myriad of forms, and a second configuration that is a cube.

Abstract: A viewing system based on a two-layer film and television railcar, comprising a first railcar moving on a first rail track and a second railcar of a second rail track arranged thereabove; at the docking point of the first railcar and the second railcar, the first rail track and the second rail track are positioned on the same plane; and arranged on the bottom of the first railcar is a locking apparatus used for locking the first railcar onto the second rail track when the first railcar moves on the second rail track. Viewers can experience different viewing positions and viewing space by means of the first railcar and the second railcar, and can use the changing movement of the railcars to enjoy different film and television content.

Abstract: A Salinity Gradient Solar Pond (SGSP) has saturated salt water in the bottom zone of the pond and nearly fresh water at the top zone, with a gradient zone between the top and bottom. Due to this salinity stratification the upward diffusion of salt is a natural consequence in SGSP's. Controlling the salinity gradient in SGSP systems is vital to their reliable operation. The method for controlling the salinity gradient disclosed in this application, coined the “Pond Rolling Method” by the authors, rapidly drains the pond's non-gradient zones, refurbishes the gradient, and restores the non-gradient zones of the SGSP system, in a manner that minimizes land use, water and heat loss. The salt in the pond is allowed to diffuse upward over time and, on condition as needed to restore the gradient, the Pond Rolling Method is used to completely rebuild the gradient and the SGSP zones.

Abstract: A process for production of minerals using an evaporation unit comprising an evaporation element for exposing thereof to the atmosphere for evaporation of a liquid solution therefrom. The evaporation element comprises an evaporation surface and a texture for deflecting the solution during movement along the surface, leaving minerals on the surface as a result of evaporation of the solution. The texture allows the minerals to detach from the element under the sole influence of normal forces of nature before the minerals reach a weight capable of damaging the evaporation unit. The process includes wetting the element with the solution, which at least partially evaporates and forms precipitated minerals, at least some of which are left on the surface; and letting the minerals detach from the surface solely under the influence of normal forces of nature before the minerals on the surface reach a weight capable of damaging the unit.

Abstract: The invention is a distributor tray (2) of a column for heating and/or material exchanging material between a gas and a liquid, comprising gas passage casings (4), liquid passages (6) and a secondary distribution system (7) projecting from the lower part of tray (2). Secondary distribution system (7) allows the liquid to be collected and distributed more homogeneously over the contactor. The invention also relates to a gas/fluid heat or material exchange column comprising such a distributor tray.

Abstract: An atmospheric water generation system, including a casing into which an air treatment unit and a chiller unit are located, the air treatment unit being provided with a first air inlet for ambient air and a first air outlet, the chiller unit being provided with a second air inlet and a second air outlet, wherein a respectively closing member is directly associated to each first and second air inlet and outlet. The system thus can additionally be used as an air conditioning unit, when the cooled and demoistured air from the air treatment unit is directed to a closed work space. The system may additionally include a water treatment unit and a power generating unit for stand alone purposes.

Abstract: Wastesolution treatment systems and methods are provided which may remove particulates and hydrocarbons from wastesolution. Embodiments may be used to treat scrubber wastesolution from exhaust gas cleaning (“EGC”) systems. Some embodiments may be used with terrestrial EGC systems and others may be used for maritime ship EGC systems. Certain embodiments remove free phase oil and particulates from the wastesolution. Some embodiments may utilize a fixed film biogenerator cultured with hydrocarbon degrading microorganisms to reduce the concentration of oils in the water. Certain embodiments may utilize a biofilter with granulated activated carbon (“GAC”) to adsorb contaminants in the water. Other embodiments may utilize GAC cultured with hydrocarbon degrading microorganisms to reduce oil concentration in the water. The wastesolution may be recirculated through the system until the measured contaminant concentration drops below a threshold value.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to a sulfur trap comprising an inlet, a first chamber, a divider, a second chamber, an outlet, and a float assembly. The float assembly may have many different configurations, but generally comprises a float and plug, is configured to float within liquid sulfur, and is operatively coupled to a seal seat in the divider for sealing and unsealing the first chamber from the second chamber. Generally, only liquid sulfur is allowed to pass from the first chamber into the second chamber. However, the sulfur trap may be configured to allow for pressure relief, such that during an overpressure event the plug and seal seat disengage and allow the liquid-gas mixture to flow into the second chamber to prevent damage within the system. In some embodiments a filter and/or the flow of liquid sulfur is directed to collect debris from the liquid sulfur.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a plate settler cover that prevents algae growth, prevents contamination from organic material, and provides structural support for a user who is standing or walking on the plate settler system. The plate settler covers can either float directly on standing water present in the system or may be structurally supported such that the plate cover is positioned above the surface of the water.

Abstract: A clip of the present application generally comprises a first clip member, a second clip member, and a retention feature. The first clip member and the second clip member are coupled together and capable of being placed in at least two positions. In the first position, the clip is capable of receiving a bag containing a fluid, and, in the second position, the bag is capable of being held between the first and second clip members. While the clip is holding the bag, two or more pockets are formed in the bag, and the fluid is generally restricted or prohibited from transferring from one pocket to another pocket while the clip is in this position. A retention feature retains the clip, which is holding a bag, to a centrifuge receptacle and allows the clip to be placed in a predetermined position on the centrifuge receptacle.

Abstract: A method of exfoliating graphite into graphene uses a sequence of flow and sonication on graphite suspensions. Graphite particles after intense mixing/grinding in a liquid are found to be altered, graphite having curled-up edges, which increases its sensitivity to ultrasound. Quadrupled graphene yield is achieved through introducing chaotic flow pretreatment.

Abstract: Clog-resistant serpentine crossflow filters and blade loading structures for micro- and nano-fluidics are provided. In one aspect, a filter includes: a substrate; and at least one layer of pillars on the substrate, wherein the pillars are arranged adjacent to one another and groups of the pillars alternate between being perpendicular and parallel to a direction of fluid flow through the filter giving the filter a serpentine configuration having at least one downstream catch. A method of forming the filter as well as a system employing the filter in conjunction with a pillar sorting array and optionally a staged blade structure are also provided.

Abstract: Improved screen filter modules, related compartmentalized filtration modules, and related filtration processes, suitable for filtering fluid to eliminate suspended particulate matter, such as living cells or microcarriers anchoring living cells, or to separate particulate matter based on size. The improvement is the presence of a barrier that channels redirected filtrate to the portion of the filter most susceptible to clogging by the particulate matter and induces flow patterns that act against clogging.

Abstract: A filtering device for high-viscous fluids having a two pistons being movably disposed in bores is disclosed. Each piston has at least one cavity and at least one filter element. The device also includes a displacing piston for generating fluid pressure and reversing the flow direction at the fluid during a back-flushing mode in an outlet channel or in a reservoir connected therewith.

Abstract: A device for filtering ballast water which performs filtering by installing a filter element having a conical shape in a concentric circle direction inside the device for filtering ballast water that accommodates a filter portion, and introducing ballast water from a lower end of the device for filtering and passing same through the filter element inside the device for filtering, and for discharging backwash water containing foreign substances that are inside a filter by way of differential pressure, which is created by a driving portion communicating with a filter element by rotating a suction portion that is located on a lower end of the device for filtering. Particularly, the present invention relates to a high-efficiency candle-type device for filtering ballast water having a high-density filter structure, wherein the driving portion is positioned on a lower portion of a housing so that more filter elements can be accommodated inside the housing.

Abstract: The disclosed subject matter is directed to a fluid treating system comprising a housing configured with at least one fluid inlet port and at least one fluid outlet port, with at least one fluid treating chamber disposed between and being in flow communication with the at least one fluid inlet port and at least one fluid outlet port, and at least one intermediate chamber disposed between at least one inlet port and at least one of the fluid treating chamber and outlet port. The at least one intermediate chamber is vented to the atmosphere or coupleable to a vacuum source.