With Pressurized Fluid Or Fluid Manipulation Patents (Class 134/22.18)
  • Patent number: 7828903
    Abstract: A method for removing pipe tuberculation includes the initial step of preparing an access point in the existing pipe by digging to the pipe and sawing a section from the pipe or creating an access port. The section of the pipeline to have its tuberculation removed is isolated by closing valves or creating another access point and sealing the end. Then, a reaming tool is introduced to the interior of the pipe. The reaming tool is attached to a hollow rod string capable of producing moderate thrust and pullback force, and must also produce sufficient torque when rotated. A horizontal directional drilling or “HDD” machine on the surface or in a pit dug out for this purpose applies the aforementioned forces to the rod string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Earth Tool Company LLC
    Inventor: Steven W. Wentworth
  • Patent number: 7824501
    Abstract: Provided is an in-situ method of cleaning a vaporizer of an atomic layer deposition apparatus during a dielectric layer deposition process, to prevent nozzle blocking in the vaporizer and an atomic layer deposition apparatus. During the dielectric layer deposition process, the following steps are repeated: supplying a first source gas for dielectric layer deposition into a chamber of an atomic layer deposition apparatus; purging the first source gas; supplying a second source gas into the chamber of the atomic layer deposition apparatus; purging the second source gas, the in-situ method of cleaning the vaporizer is performed after supplying the first source gas for dielectric layer deposition and before supplying the first source gas again.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hoon-sang Choi, Jong-cheol Lee, Ki-vin Im, Eun-ae Chung, Sang-yeol Kang, Young-sun Kim, Kwang-hee Lee
  • Patent number: 7819978
    Abstract: A diesel particulate filter of a motor vehicle is cleaned of diesel particulate material like ash and possibly soot, typically using equipment already available in a service shop following the method and diesel particulate filter cleaning apparatus of the invention. The diesel particulate filter cleaning apparatus has an air chamber that is coupled to a vibrator and is attached to the diesel particulate filter. The vibrator vibrates the air chamber and the diesel particulate filter to dislodge the diesel particulate material. Air is introduced into the air chamber and into the diesel particulate filter to further remove the diesel particulate material from the diesel particulate filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventors: James A. Thomas, Karl Reith
  • Patent number: 7820014
    Abstract: A decoking system that not only enables an operator to remotely switch the coke-cutting process from boring to cutting mode without removing the drill stem from the coke drum, but also to remotely determine the drill stem's mode so that efficiency, safety and convenience are not compromised, is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Inventor: Ruben F. Lah
  • Patent number: 7815743
    Abstract: Device for cleaning a gas turbine engine, and in particular an engine of turbofan type. The present invention further relates to a method for cleaning such an engine. The device comprises a plurality of nozzles arranged to atomize cleaning liquid in the air stream in an air inlet of the engine up-stream of a fan of the engine. According to the invention, a first nozzle is arranged at a position such that the cleaning liquid emanating from the first nozzle impinges the surfaces of the blades substantially on the pressure side; a second nozzle is arrange at a position such that the cleaning liquid emanating from the second nozzle impinges the surfaces of the blades substantially on the suction side; and a third nozzle is arranged at a position such that the cleaning liquid emanating from the third nozzle passes substantially between the blades and enters an inlet of the core engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Gas Turbine Efficiency AB
    Inventors: Peter Asplund, Carl-Johan Hjerpe
  • Patent number: 7815744
    Abstract: The invention provides a method of moving a pig through pipeline, the method comprising the steps of: a) introducing the pig into the pipeline; b) causing a chemical reaction between two or more reagents to produce at least one reaction product that would be in a gaseous state at STP, wherein the reagents would be in a non-gaseous state at STP; and c) introducing the gaseous reaction product into the pipeline. The invention also provides a method of moving a pig through a pipeline, the method comprising the steps of: a) introducing the pig into the pipeline; b) introducing into the pipeline two or more reagents capable of chemically reacting to produce at least one reaction product that would be in a gaseous state at STP, wherein the reagents would be in a non-gaseous state at STP.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Laurence J. Abney, Steve Arrington
  • Publication number: 20100252072
    Abstract: In this disclosure, a reactor system is described. The reaction system comprises (a) a reaction vessel having an inner wall, wherein said reaction vessel is configured to receive reactants and export products and byproducts; (b) a primary quench device (PQD) configured to receive a coolant and disperse said coolant into said reaction vessel; and (c) a secondary quench device (SQD) configured to receive a coolant and disperse said coolant into said reaction vessel; wherein said PQD comprises an array of spray nozzles fixed on the inner wall of said reaction vessel at a first axial position; and wherein said SQD comprises (1) an axially movable pipe having a coolant entry end and a nozzle end, wherein said pipe is configured to be removably fixed inside said reaction vessel; and (2) a spray nozzle that is fluidly connected to said pipe at its nozzle end via a fluid tight seal connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2009
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Applicant: SYNFUELS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Duane MORROW, Joel CANTRELL, Edward R. PETERSON
  • Publication number: 20100243000
    Abstract: A mobile cleaning device for cleaning parts of a burner is provided. The mobile cleaning device includes a closable pressure vessel, wherein a nozzle end of the burner is located inside the pressure vessel. An end of the burner, which is used for supplying fuel and is arranged opposite from the nozzle end, is located outside the pressure vessel. Further, a method for cleaning parts of the burner is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventors: Andreas Böttcher, Andre Kluge, Sabine Tüschen
  • Patent number: 7803232
    Abstract: A bottle cleaner that inverts the bottles to spray solutions into them. The cleaner sends the bottles through two inverting passes for multiple stages of liquid cleaning. Thus, on the first pass, the bottles invert and receive, for example, a spray of a cleaning solution of some sort. The cleaner then returns the bottles to the upright orientation. On the second pass, the bottles again turn upside down and then may receive a liquid rinse. After returning the bottles to the normal orientation, the cleaner may then pass the bottles off to another location for further operations. Each pass of the bottles utilizes two sets of linked grippers arranged as a chain. One chain contacts the bottles on one side while the second chain contacts them on the other side. The two chains squeeze the bottles between them to firmly hold them. A single adjustment accomplishes a multitude of tasks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: McBrady Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Julian P. Avelis, Garrett McBrady
  • Publication number: 20100237025
    Abstract: The present invention is related to a method and system for cleaning a media support structure in a filter cell in a liquid filter system, wherein a cleaning solution does not significantly enter a filter media zone. The method comprises supplying a cleaning solution to a filter cell to a level sufficient to submerge the media support structure, but not to significantly enter the filter media zone. Additionally, the cleaning solution level is monitored to ensure the cleaning solution does not significantly enter the filter media zone. Alternatively, the cleaning solution may be continuously recirculated and reintroduced to the filter cell during the cleaning operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2009
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Applicant: ITT WATER & WASTEWATER LEOPOLD, INC.
    Inventors: John L. Geibel, Eugene M. Vegso, Christopher J. Ball, Robert L. Laird, Thomas M. Getting, Dean T. Berkebile
  • Patent number: 7799137
    Abstract: A system and method of cleaning an enclosure of a container defined by inner walls, including providing a container, orienting the container so that the opening is lowermost and opens downwardly and generating resonant vibration in the container at a predetermined frequency and at an energy level sufficient to dislodge any loose solid particles from the inner walls of said container but not being of an energy level to impact the structural integrity of the container and maintaining the resonant vibration within the container enclosure for a sufficient time to dislodge all loose solid particles from the inner walls of said container. The system may include a resonant chamber in the form of a shroud and means to effectuate the method steps and may also include a sanitizing step in which the containers are further sanitized to render inactive any organic contaminants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Stokely-Van Camp, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas S. Wolters
  • Patent number: 7799144
    Abstract: A method of cleaning a filter component comprises subjecting the component to an atmosphere of superheated steam at a pressure of a least 0.5 bar in a vessel and subsequently decompressing the vessel to achieve a pressure reduction of at least 0.5 bar in at most 5 seconds. The method is particularly useful for the cleaning of filter components that have been used for the filtration of molten polymer (e.g. polyester) and which are at least partially blocked by solidified polymer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Longworth Engineering Ltd.
    Inventors: Peter John Norris, John Norris, Christopher Reid, James Peter Millington
  • Publication number: 20100224216
    Abstract: A camera module includes a lens module, an image sensor, a circuit board for supporting the image sensor, and a lens holder for connecting the lens module and the circuit board. A method for fabricating the camera module includes the following steps. Firstly, at least one cleaning hole is created in the lens holder, and the at least one cleaning hole is filled with a removable sealing stuff. Then, the printed circuit board, the image sensor, the lens holder and the lens module of the camera module are combined together. Then, a testing procedure is performed to detect whether any pollutant is present within the assembled camera module. Once any pollutant within the assembled camera module is detected, the sealing stuff is removed from the at least one cleaning hole, a cleaning procedure is done to remove the pollutant, and the at least one cleaning hole is sealed again.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2009
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Applicant: PRIMAX ELECTRONICS LTD.
    Inventors: Hsiang-Kai Liao, Po-Chun Chang
  • Patent number: 7789970
    Abstract: Means for obtaining accurate knowledge of location and amount of fouling inside a heat exchange system, such as a boiler of a power plant, are provided. According to the invention this knowledge can be used to optimize cleaning of a heat exchange system. The system of the invention comprises: Means for measuring particles in the exhaust gas stream of the heat exchange system. These particles are at least partly released when cleaning a certain part of the heat exchange surface of the heat exchange system. Means for creating information of the fouling in an electronic memory by linking together coordinates of the part of the heat exchange surface being cleaned and the measurement data created during the cleaning of said part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: Foster Wheeler North America Corp.
    Inventor: Tomas Rosin
  • Patent number: 7767028
    Abstract: Apparatus to clean silicon electrode assembly surfaces which controls or eliminates possible chemical attack of electrode assembly bonding materials, and eliminates direct handling contact with the parts to be cleaned during acid treatment, spray rinse, blow dry, bake and bagging. Aspects of the apparatus include a kit including an electrode carrier to hold an electrode assembly, a treatment stand to allow access to the electrode assembly, a spider plate to clamp the electrode assembly in the electrode carrier, a nitrogen purge plate to supply nitrogen gas to the backside of the electrode assembly during acid cleaning of the electrode, a water rinse plate to supply water to the electrode face, a blow dry plate to supply nitrogen to dry the electrode assembly and a bake stand to support the electrode assembly during a bake before placing the clean electrode assembly in a bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Lam Research Corporation
    Inventors: Jason Augustino, Charles Rising
  • Patent number: 7767027
    Abstract: A method removes combustion residues from a wall of a chamber which carries combustion gases and/or from at least one component which is disposed in the chamber. The method includes making contact between the combustion residues and a first cleaning medium, and making contact between the pretreated combustion residues and a second cleaning medium. The first cleaning medium and the second cleaning medium differ at least with regard to a physical state. An apparatus for removing the combustion residues has different cleaning appliances and operating areas which at least partially overlap. The method and the apparatus allow, for example, heat exchanging surfaces in steam generators to be cleaned in a particular careful and thorough manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Clyde Bergemann GmbH
    Inventors: Achim Schiffer, Helmut Robiné, Dieter Rüsenberg, Stephan Schwenke, Helmut Dombrowski, Manfred Frach, Frank Völker
  • Publication number: 20100186775
    Abstract: A cleaning system for food processing equipment is disclosed. An exemplary system includes a supply source of cleaning media, an apparatus including a main housing having a media inlet, media outlet, an internal media travel path defined between the media inlet and the media outlet, and a rotation generating mechanism, wherein rotational speed of the rotation generating mechanism is controllable by pressure flow of the media in the media travel path. A supply line connects the supply source and the media inlet. A rotatable lance secured to the main body media outlet, and has at least one nozzle disposed between the media outlet and a distal end of the lance. The media is sprayed from the at least one nozzle in a rotational path. A method of use is also disclosed. In an exemplary method, operational time, temperature, pressure, rotational speed and media type are controlled to reach target cleanliness levels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Inventor: Ole T. Madsen
  • Publication number: 20100175722
    Abstract: A cleaning system which can be integrated into a coater track system for use in the production of semiconductor devices and methods for its use are provided. The cleaning system can include a series of nozzles having assorted configurations and features which provide uniform and efficient rinsing of excess material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Inventors: Adrian Salinas, Joel Peterson
  • Publication number: 20100170537
    Abstract: With the waste container washing system described herein, the waste container can be moved into a washing compartment of the washing vehicle for washing thereof; in a first washing phase, the waste container can be exposed to a plurality of water jets of grey water pumped from a grey water reservoir; and in a second washing phase, the waste container can be exposed to a plurality of clean water pumped from a clean water reservoir. The water used in the first and/or second washing phase can be collected and stored in the grey water reservoir. Other improvements, such as a double-action pump for the two phases, a filtering system for grey water, a container movement system and path, and methods are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2009
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Applicant: 9103-8034 Quebec Inc.
    Inventor: Serge Gingras
  • Patent number: 7749330
    Abstract: A method and apparatus provide for automatically cleaning and decontaminating medical instruments. The method comprising the steps of: a) placing the medical instruments into a container after their use in a medical procedure; b) closing the container to seal the instruments inside whereby to prevent personnel contact with the instruments and any contaminants which might be thereon; c) inserting the sealed container into a washer/decontaminator and sealing the washer/decontaminator; d) the washer/decontaminator automatically opening the container and applying a washing fluid thereto to wash the instruments within the container; and e) the washer/decontaminator automatically applying a disinfectant to the container to disinfect the instruments whereby to allow safe handling thereof by personnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Szu-Min Lin, Robert C. Platt, Peter C. Zhu
  • Patent number: 7736441
    Abstract: According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method of cleaning one or more fluid plenums of an electrode assembly is provided. According to the method, a plurality of fluid ports in communication with the fluid plenum are isolated and differentiated into respective sets of plenum input ports and plenum output ports. The input and output ports are engaged with respective cleaning fluid couplings. A cleaning fluid is directed through the fluid plenum by creating a fluid pressure differential ?P=PIN?POUT across the plenum input and output ports. The pressure differential ?P is large enough to force cleaning fluid from the cleaning fluid supply duct to the cleaning fluid waste duct through the fluid plenum. Additional embodiments are disclosed and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Lam Research Corporation
    Inventors: Duane Outka, Bill Denty, Rajinder Dhindsa
  • Publication number: 20100132740
    Abstract: Particularly in hospitals, care homes or similar institutions, it is necessary to have a safely handled and reliable method for the emptying and cleaning of excretion containers, for example urine bottles or bedpans. A method and a system (110) are therefore proposed, by means of which such articles to be rinsed (112) can be treated. In this case, first, in an emptying step (210), the articles to be rinsed (112) are emptied and are rinsed out with a rinsing-out liquid. Subsequently, in a circulation step (212), the articles to be rinsed (112) are washed in circulation. Finally, a rinsing-clear step (214) is carried out, in which the articles to be rinsed (112) are rinsed with a rinsing-clear liquid. Then, in an optional disinfection step (216), preferably a chemical disinfection step (216), the articles to be rinsed (112) are disinfected, and, in an optional drying step (218), the articles to be rinsed (112) are dried by being blown off with heated air.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2006
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Inventors: Denis Lehmann, Michael Streb, Marcus Braun, Heinz-Peter Werner
  • Publication number: 20100116294
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a spray drying system provided with a gas filtering system, which system is intended for use in the pharmaceutical industry for aseptic production of sterile pharmaceutical products or in other industries e.g. production of food, where an intake of sterile air for the drying process is necessary. The spray drying system for providing a particulate material comprises a spray drying chamber (3), after treatment equipment (4, 5) placed downstream of the spray drying chamber and a process gas heater (2) placed upstream in relation to the spray drying chamber (3), wherein an inlet filter (1) capable of removing microorganisms at a temperature below 140° C., is placed upstream of the process gas heater (2) and that the process gas heater (2) is a non-flaking heater.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2007
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Applicant: GEA PROCESS ENGINEERING INC.
    Inventors: Robert Howard Turok, Soren Sten Rasmussen
  • Patent number: 7708838
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for dispensing of a microbiologically sensitive fluid, in particular low acid food fluid, in a hygienic manner so as to avoid micro-organism growth in the line dispensing the fluid as well as in any mechanical components of a dispensing unit that may enter into contact with the fluid. The invention hygienically supplies microbiologically sensitive fluid from a removable container that has a terminal connecting portion to a dispensing unit. The unit includes a coupling mechanism adapted to connect the terminal connecting portion and a component for delivering a cleaning or rinsing fluid within the terminal connecting portion. Thus, during cleaning or rinsing, the cleaning or rinsing fluid can be discharged within the terminal connecting portion up to a closing point of the container assembly, thus demarcating a closing point, downstream of which is a part that is maintained clean, and upstream of which is a part of the container that is maintained sterile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Peter W. Carhuff, Edward L. Dickinson, Andrew C. Harvey, Edward M. Kolvek, Takeshi Masu
  • Patent number: 7695763
    Abstract: In a substrate processing apparatus configured to perform a predetermined process on a target substrate accommodated in a process chamber, the process chamber is cleaned by alternately performing an operation of generating plasma of a gas containing oxygen within the process chamber, and an operation of generating plasma of a gas containing nitrogen within the process chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventors: Shuuichi Ishizuka, Masaru Sasaki, Tetsuro Takahashi, Koji Maekawa
  • Patent number: 7691208
    Abstract: In a process chamber of a substrate processing apparatus, such as an RTP apparatus, a carrier is placed and configured to carry out a contaminant that has been attached to it. In this state, a cleaning gas containing N2 and O2 is introduced into the process chamber, and cleaning is performed under conditions including a pressure of 133.3 Pa or less and a temperature of 700° C. to 1,100° C. This cleaning is repeatedly performed by sequentially replacing a plurality of carriers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventor: Koji Maekawa
  • Publication number: 20100071723
    Abstract: A combination of a reusable fluid filter and a cleaning/regeneration apparatus that cleans a used filter and returns it to like-new condition for reuse. The filter comprises a container and a filter medium, the latter of which is a combination of coarse and fine wire mesh layers. The wire mesh may be cleaned and returned to usable condition using the regeneration station. The regeneration station comprises a reservoir having a cleaning medium, a filter mount, a compressed gas inlet, and a circulating pump supplying cleaning medium to the filter to be cleaned.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2009
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventors: Patrick Dugan, Loy M. Clemmer
  • Publication number: 20100051057
    Abstract: A rotary apparatus and method is provided for cleaning liquid storage tanks, particularly above ground tanks. The rotary cleaning apparatus includes a Tee housing that is rotated around a vertical axis and a nozzle housing mounted to the Tee housing for rotation around a horizontal axis, resulting in a 360° spherical spray pattern. A set of downspray nozzles is mounted to the Tee housing at an angle to the vertical axis to rotate with the housing and generate a conical spray pattern. In the preferred embodiment, the apparatus draws liquid stored in the tank through a filter and pumps the filtered liquid through the rotary cleaning apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventors: Robert E. Delaney, Andrew K. Delaney, Bentley F. Gleeson, Minh Q. Le
  • Patent number: 7666278
    Abstract: A decoking system that not only enables an operator to remotely switch the coke-cutting process from boring to cutting mode without removing the drill stem from the coke drum, but also to remotely determine the drill stem's mode so that efficiency, safety and convenience are not compromised, is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Curtiss-Wright Flow Control Corporation
    Inventor: Ruben F. Lah
  • Publication number: 20100012155
    Abstract: A method for cleaning a die member having molding grooves and moldable-ceramic-material-supplying holes communicating with the molding grooves, by removing a binder-containing moldable ceramic material from the die member after used for molding the moldable ceramic material, comprising the steps of spraying a high-pressure fluid to a surface of the die member on the side of moldable-material-supplying holes, and then spraying a high-pressure fluid to a surface of the die member on the side of molding grooves, thereby removing the moldable ceramic material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2007
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Applicant: Hitachi Metals, Ltd.
    Inventor: Naoki Sugio
  • Publication number: 20100000574
    Abstract: A control method of a washing machine is capable of safely achieving a tub washing operation control with low power consumption. At the time of performing tub washing, water of which the amount is decided depending on a volume inside a drum and a volume inside a water tub is supplied to the water tub, and the rotation speed of the drum is controlled to be inversely proportional to the volume of the supplied water, thereby efficiently controlling a tub washing operation with low power consumption. Also, the rotation state of the drum is controlled, at the time of performing the tub washing, to maintain the temperature of a motor or a printed circuit board (PCB) to be a predetermined level or less, thereby safely controlling a tub washing operation with low power consumption.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: In Ju LEE, Jong Sung Park, Jung Soo Lim, Sang Yeon Pyo, Woo Kyung Jung, Hye Ryung Kim
  • Patent number: 7632457
    Abstract: An oral feeding bottle includes a feed container with an open end and surfaces adapted to come into contact with a liquid feed in the container, a teat releasably connected to the open end and adapted to contact both the liquid feed and a person or animal feeding from the bottle, and a cap with two modes of operation, where in the first mode, the teat is connected to the container and the cap is adapted to fit over, enclose the teat, and be releaseably connected to the feed container, and where in the second mode, the cap includes a means for stowing the teat in a non-dispensing position spaced from the container, where the teat and the surfaces that contact the liquid feed are in fluid communication so that the teat and the feed container are sterilized with a fluid sterilizing medium disposed in the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: MRDC limited
    Inventors: John Richard Calvert, Martyn Omar Rowlands, Michael Anthony Hobbs
  • Publication number: 20090293910
    Abstract: A method for cleaning a fluidic system of a flow cytometer having a sheath pump to pump sheath fluid towards an interrogation zone and a waste pump to pump the sheath fluid and a sample fluid as waste fluid from the interrogation zone, wherein the sheath pump and/or the waste pump draw sample fluid into the flow cytometer through a drawtube towards the interrogation zone. The method includes controlling the sheath pump and the waste pump to cooperatively flush a fluid out through the drawtube, thereby cleaning the fluidic system of the flow cytometer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2009
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventors: Jack T. Ball, Aaron Kehrer, Nathaniel C. Bair, Collin A. Rich
  • Publication number: 20090293917
    Abstract: A cleaning system and method remove localized caked or dewatered solids from flat-plate membranes in a sewage treatment plant. The caked sludge on the membranes is removed by intense coherent water sprays directed into the spaces between cartridges of a cassette, without removing the cartridges from the cassette. The sprays can be delivered from the top and/or bottom of the cassette, or the side panels of a cassette can be removed for spraying from at least one side, preferably both sides, using a mechanical device with movable spray bars and motor-driven advancing of the spray bars. In one preferred form of the system the apparatus includes horizontal cutting jets followed by angled cutting jets that further break up and wash away the loosened sludge. Jet diameter, velocity and pressure are controlled so as not to damage the membranes or cartridges but to achieve efficient cleaning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventors: Dennis Livingston, Mark Steelman Stone, Edward Alan David, Steve Stach, Roland Schneider
  • Patent number: 7625451
    Abstract: By providing a shaver receiving and supporting housing which is constructed for enabling cleaning fluid to be delivered directly to the interior of a shaver in a highly efficient manner, a fully integrated shaving cleaning system is realized which is capable of providing automated cleaning of the shaver in an efficient and effective manner. In accordance with the present invention, the cleaning fluid if forced through portals formed in the shaver for enabling the fluid to be forcibly delivered directly into the hair pocket of the shaver, thereby enabling the surfaces of the hair pocket, the cutting foils, and the cutting blades to be completely and thoroughly cleaned, with the fluid draining out of the shaver through the cutting foils. In addition, the present invention is constructed for thoroughly and completely cleaning both rotary shavers and foil shavers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Rovcal, Inc.
    Inventors: James E. Chasen, Scott Larsen, Frank Mercurio, Stephen D. Mowers, Timothy G. Simmone
  • Patent number: 7611588
    Abstract: The invention relates to methods and compositions for removing metal oxide soils from surfaces. The compositions include an anionic surfactant and a pH adjuster at an acidic pH. In one embodiment, the invention relates to a method of removing a metal oxide soil from a surface by (1) applying a use composition to the surface, the use composition having a pH adjuster in an amount sufficient to provide a use pH at or below 7, an anionic surfactant in an amount to remove a portion of the metal oxide soil, and a carrier, (2) removing the metal oxide soil from the surface with the use composition, and (3) rinsing the surface to remove the use composition and the metal oxide soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Nathan D. Peitersen, Robert D. Hei, Richard K. Staub, Rick O. Ruhr
  • Patent number: 7588036
    Abstract: A process for removing unwanted deposition build-up from one or more interior surfaces of a substrate processing chamber. According to one embodiment the process comprises performing a substrate processing operation on the substrate within the substrate processing chamber and then transferring the substrate out of the substrate processing chamber; flowing a first etchant gas into a remote plasma source, forming reactive species from the etchant gas and transporting the reactive species into the substrate processing chamber to remove a first portion of the unwanted deposition build-up; and thereafter, flowing a second etchant gas into the substrate processing chamber and forming a plasma within the substrate processing chamber from the second gas in order to remove a second portion of the unwanted deposition build-up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Zhenjiang Cui, Michael S. Cox, Canfeng Lai, Paddy Krishnaraj
  • Publication number: 20090217868
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for supplying pasty materials, said device comprising an end piece (1) for the supply of the material, and a coating nozzle (2). The inventive device is characterised in that the end piece comprises a channel (3) for the supply of the pasty material, said channel ending at a first end of the end piece in a central opening (4) of the nozzle (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2005
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventor: Herve Caseteuble
  • Publication number: 20090217981
    Abstract: A fluid handling device with an anisotropic wetting surface including a substrate with a multiplicity of asymmetric substantially uniformly shaped asperities thereon. Each asperity has a first asperity rise angle and a second asperity rise angle relative to the substrate. The asperities are structured to present a desired retentive force ratio (f1/f2) greater or less than unity caused by asymmetry between the first asperity rise angle and the second asperity rise angle according to the formula: f3/f2=sin(?3+½??0)/sin(?2+½??0).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Applicant: ENTEGRIS, INC.
    Inventors: Charles W. Extrand, Michael Wright
  • Patent number: 7581550
    Abstract: A method of cleaning a reaction chamber using a substrate having a metal catalyst thereon is disclosed. The method includes preparing a substrate having a catalyst layer to activate a cleaning gas. The substrate is introduced into the reaction chamber. Next, a cleaning gas is introduced into the reaction chamber. Contaminations in the reaction chamber are exhausted. The substrate having a metal catalyst layer is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Seok-Jun Won, Weon-Hong Kim, Min-Woo Song
  • Patent number: 7575641
    Abstract: A method and system utilizing a mobile cleaning unit for providing cleaning of heat exchanger tube bundles. The mobile cleaning unit utilizes a pressurized seal positioned about top door of the cleaning enclosure to provide a fluid and vapor lock of the cleaning enclosure. An oxygen purging system of the cleaning enclosure, the cleaning fluid reservoir, and the control panels provides additional safety. The mobile cleaning unit can use cleaning fluid produced at the facility site and return the cleaning fluid to the facility site for reprocessing after the heat exchanger tube bundles are cleaned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: National Heat Exchange Cleaning Corp.
    Inventor: Carroll E. Joseph
  • Patent number: 7571733
    Abstract: A safety cage is used in waterblasting with a lance comprising a hollow rod and a nozzle having a diameter larger than the diameter of the rod. The safety cage is an enclosure having an open bottom and a transparent top. The top has a slot and a means for allowing movement through the slot of the rod but not the nozzle of the lance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Bodine Services of Decatur Inc.
    Inventor: Roy E. Brozio, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20090188532
    Abstract: In a reactor cleaning apparatus 1 which cleans an inner wall surface 72 of a reactor 70 which generates polycrystalline silicon, a bell jar of the reactor 70 has a dual structure, a through hole 11 is formed along a vertical direction at a central portion of a substantially disc-like tray 10 placed in a horizontal state, a flange portion 13 in which an opening edge of the reactor 70 is placed is formed at an outer peripheral portion of the tray 10, a shaft 20 is provided through the through hole 11 of the tray 10 so as to be rotatable and movable in the vertical direction, a nozzle device 50 which sprays a cleaning water at high pressure in three-dimensional directions is provided at an upper end of the shaft 20, a drive mechanism 30 which rotates the shaft 20 and moves the shaft in the vertical direction is provided at a base end of the shaft 20, and steam piping 62 capable of supplying the steam within the bell jar of the reactor 70 is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2009
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI MATERIALS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Toshihide Endoh, Masayuki Tebakari, Toshiyuki Ishii, Masaaki Sakaguchi
  • Patent number: 7559332
    Abstract: The present invention relates to apparatus and methods of removing media. In particular, the present invention relates to apparatus and methods of removing media from a tooling for a fuselage. In one implementation, the media removal apparatus uses an auger to dislodge the media, and a vacuum to remove the media. In another implementation the media removal apparatus uses an air pressure line to dislodge the media and a vacuum to remove the media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Teufel, Curtis Longo
  • Publication number: 20090173363
    Abstract: The invention concerns a system for putting back in suspension a sediment that has, by deposition, formed a layer (3) on the bottom (1b) of a tank (1) with a floating roof (2) containing crude oil, said device comprising: —at least one pipe (11) for sucking out and re-injecting the oil contained in said tank (1); —a pump (7) for providing circulation of the oil in said pipe (11); —a filtration device (9) intended to eliminate the inorganic elements contained in the crude oil; and —injection lances (5) each comprising at least one injection orifice (8a, 8b, 8c) sending a jet in the direction of the layer of sediment; the filtration device (9) comprises at least a first (15a) and a second filter (15b) mounted in parallel and connected to the suction and re-injection pipe (11) by means of a switching device (16, 17) for directing the flow of oil selectively to the first (15a) or second filter (15b). The invention also concerns a method of putting a layer of sediment back in suspension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2006
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Applicant: PETROJET INTERNATIONAL
    Inventor: Jonathan Wahnich
  • Patent number: 7540291
    Abstract: In a first phase, after completion of a production process for plastic films, the blowing head is heated by the heater that is present to a temperature above the melting temperature of the plastic remaining in the blowing head to liquefy the same. In a second phase, at the latest after the liquefied plastic has run out, at least the region of the blowing head that is in contact with the plastic is sealed off from the ambient atmosphere and purged of its oxygen-containing atmosphere. The head is then heated far above the decomposition temperature of the plastic still remaining, and the gaseous products thereby occurring are discharged. At the end of the decomposition phase of the remaining plastic, the blowing head is flushed through with a gas which contains at least a proportion of oxygen, in order to carry out an incineration of residual particles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: Kiefel Extrusion GmbH
    Inventor: Edgar Gandelheidt
  • Patent number: 7534469
    Abstract: A CVD apparatus comprising an optical unit detecting the mass of contaminants adhering to an inner surface of a CVD reactor by irradiating an inner surface of the reactor with light having monochromaticity through an optical window provided on an inner wall of the reactor and receiving its reflected light is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Assignee: ASM Japan K.K.
    Inventors: Kiyoshi Satoh, Yoshinobu Kano
  • Patent number: 7531048
    Abstract: A cleaning method for a combustor comprises positioning a spray portion of a nozzle through an igniter plug boss and spraying an acid solution inside the combustion chamber. The acid solution impinges the inner liner and the outer liner, dissolving contaminant deposits inside the effusion holes. The nozzle can have a second spray portion outside the combustion chamber to provide acid solution to the radially outward surface of the outer liner. After cleaning, distilled water is sprayed through the nozzle to remove the acid solution residue from the combustor. The used acid solution and distilled water can be collected, filtered and pumped through the nozzle to provide a recirculating cleaning/rinsing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory O. Woodcock, Robert W. Mahar, William Tesch, Richard A. Bonvouloir, John C. Saunders, Udo Schuelke
  • Patent number: 7531047
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a method of cleaning a semiconductor substrate after a DRIE etch process, wherein residue from the DRIE process is removed without damaging the substrate. The process may include contacting the micro-fluid ejection head with an aqueous solution of TMAH, stripping a photoresist etch mask from the micro-fluid ejection head, and dissolving a passivating coating from the substrate. Then the substrate may be contacted with an acidic solution. The method may further include rinsing and drying the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Lexmark International, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul William Dryer, James Michael Mrvos, David Bruce Rhine
  • Publication number: 20090101178
    Abstract: A container rinsing system (10) has an air nozzle adapted to be positioned proximate an opening of the container and adapted to direct a supply of compressed air to the container. A vacuum member is adapted to be in communication with a vacuum source. The vacuum member is positioned around the air nozzle and adapted to vacuum foreign particles away from the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2008
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Applicant: STOKELY-VAN CAMP, INC
    Inventors: Rei-Young Amos Wu, Michael J. Mastio