Liquid Cleaning Or Flushing Patents (Class 137/15.05)
  • Patent number: 11448572
    Abstract: A portable, hydrocarbon well test unit for use with high temperature and high-pressure hydrocarbon wellbore flow includes a two-phase separator unit having a hydrocarbon inlet, a vapor outlet and a liquid outlet. A static mixer is in fluid communication with the liquid outlet. A liquid sampler positioned downstream of the static mixer ensures that liquid and gas are mixed to accurately represent a sample of the wellbore hydrocarbon flow. The sampler can be actuated to extract a sample of the mixed fluid. The sampler directs samples to a multi-position valve having a plurality of valve outlets, each outlet being in fluid communication with one of a plurality of sample bottles. A controller actuates the multi-position valve to direct a sample into a particular sample bottle, thereby allowing different types of samples to be taken over different time periods without the need for intervention for extended periods of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2022
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Assignee: En-Fab, Inc.
    Inventors: Mayur Borad, Juan Pablo Rodriguez, Dane Anderson
  • Patent number: 11253738
    Abstract: The invention relates to a water extinguishing system (1) with a fluid supply (20), a pump (30) and a test line (40) with an opening element (2) which is configured to open the test line (40) during a test run of the pump (30). According to the invention, the test line (40) further comprises a closing element (4) which is configured to close the test line (40) if the water extinguishing system (1) is triggered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2022
    Assignee: Minimax Viking Research & Development GmbH
    Inventors: Joachim Böke, Frank Friede, Stephan Bludau
  • Patent number: 10351813
    Abstract: An assembly includes an adjustable dip tube that can selectively withdraw an isolated component at various heights within a vessel. The adjustable nature of the dip tube can improve the cell recovery rate as compared to conventional cell recovery assemblies. Additionally, the assembly can take advantage of the adjustable nature of the dip tube while maintaining an aseptic interior cavity of the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: SAINT-GOBAIN PERFORMANCE PLASTICS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Scott R. Johnson, Michael S. Block, Christopher J. Pates, Avery A. Hallett
  • Publication number: 20150136240
    Abstract: Method for cleaning the conveying pipe of a pneumatic material conveying system, such as of a waste conveying system, and/or for conveying material that is in the piping, in which method at least one cleaning member is fed into a conveying pipe, and a pressure difference is achieved in the pipe and under the influence of the pressure difference the cleaning member is brought to move for cleaning the pipe, and/or for conveying material, in the conveying pipe section intended to be cleaned. In the method a cleaning member or a combination of a number of cleaning members is moved in the conveying piping, and that the cleaning member or combination of a number of cleaning members is connected to a transmission member, with which the movement of the cleaning member or combination of a number of cleaning members in the conveying piping is limited or guided. The object of the invention is also a cleaning apparatus and a system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2013
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Applicant: MARICAP OY
    Inventor: Göran Sundholm
  • Patent number: 9010656
    Abstract: A water hydrant flushing device is disclosed. The device handles a flow of water from a water hydrant as it is being flushed, and allows the flushing to take place in a safer manner without destroying surrounding landscaping or other objects. The device comprises a chute that is open on both ends, and an opening on one end that is removably connected to a diffuser by means of a securing mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Inventor: Bob Cowin
  • Patent number: 8999070
    Abstract: The invention provides a method and apparatus for removing a blockage from a fluid conduit. An apparatus comprises a first portion containing a fluid volume separated from the fluid conduit via a controllable valve. The valve is cyclically opened and closed such that a pressure differential between the first portion and the fluid conduit causes a series of pressure pulses in the fluid conduit. The pressure differential is regulated to control the amplitude of the pressure pulses of the series.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Paradigm Flow Services Services Limited
    Inventor: Hugh MacKenzie
  • Patent number: 8991414
    Abstract: A method for removing blood from an extracorporeal blood circuit of a treatment apparatus for the extracorporeal blood treatment of a patient following termination of a blood treatment session, wherein the treatment apparatus includes at least one extracorporeal blood circuithaving a conduit interior; at least one blood pump for conveying blood inside the conduit interior of the extracorporeal blood circuit; and at least one substitute pumpfor introducing or conveying at least one substituate fluid inside the conduit interior of the extracorporeal blood circuit. The method comprises feeding of air into the conduit interior of the extracorporeal blood circuit by operating the blood pump, and introducing substituate fluid into the conduit interior of the extracorporeal blood circuitby operating the substitute pump. In addition, a suitable apparatus is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Fresenius Medical Care Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Soeren Gronau, Goetz Guenther, Juergen Haecker
  • Publication number: 20140373930
    Abstract: A liquid processing system is disclosed. The liquid processing system comprises a number of sub-systems handling a liquid product. The liquid product is transferred between said sub-systems during processing of the liquid product. The liquid processing system further comprises a number of secondary sub-systems connectable to said sub-systems respectively. Each secondary sub-system has an associated measuring device, such that product losses or water consumption, caused by at least one secondary sub-system being connected to a corresponding sub-system of the liquid processing system, can be measured for each secondary sub-system individually.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2013
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventors: Pontus Luedtke, Ferdinand Franz
  • Patent number: 8910649
    Abstract: A readily cleanable water storage system and a method of maintaining cleanliness of water in said system are disclosed. The system comprises an overhead water tank, wherein said water tank comprises a floor, at least one inlet, a draining outlet with a stop cock, an overflow outlet, a supply outlet and a pump, characterized in that the floor of the tank is inclined at a pre-determined continuous and effective slope either towards another point on the periphery to form an inclined floor, or from all sides to form a conical bottom with the supply outlet located at the side wall of the tank above the conical bottom and the draining outlet is located at the periphery of the inclined floor at sloping end or at the convergence of the cone formed by the conical bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Inventor: Jainendra Kumar Singh
  • Patent number: 8893923
    Abstract: Provided are methods and systems for dispensing different chemicals used for high productivity combinatorial processing. A dispense panel may include multiple inlet lines for supplying different chemicals. Each inlet line is connected to its own three-way valve that either allows the supplied chemical to flow from the inlet line towards a dispense valve connected to a dispense manifold (during dispensing of the supplied chemical) or allows another chemical to flow from the dispense valve to a waste manifold (during priming of the dispense manifold with this other chemical). Specifically, during priming a chemical supplied from its inlet line and is passed through a corresponding three-way valve and is directed to its dispense valve and then into the dispense manifold. Other dispense valves and three-way valves of the dispense panel allow this chemical to flow out of the dispense manifold, thereby priming remaining parts of the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Intermolecular, Inc.
    Inventors: Satbir Kahlon, Aaron T. Francis, Chi-I Lang, Gregory P. Lim, Jeffrey Chih-Hou Lowe, Robert Anthony Sculac
  • Patent number: 8875726
    Abstract: An apparatus for rinsing inverted chemical containers includes two main assemblies, namely a gravity flow valve assembly and a rinse adapter assembly. The gravity flow assembly is inserted into the throat of the container. The rinse adapter assembly is detachably secured to the throat of the inverted container. When the rinse adapter assembly is attached to the throat of the container, the rinse tube of the rinse adapter assembly extends upwardly through the gravity flow valve assembly and into the interior of the container. Rinsing fluid, such as water, is supplied to the rinse tube which sprays the rinsing fluid onto the interior of the container to rinse the chemical residue from the interior of the container. The apparatus may also be used to dilute the liquid chemical in the container so that the diluted chemical will more freely drain from the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventor: Rodney Laible
  • Publication number: 20140261736
    Abstract: The invention provides a passive fluidics circuit for directing different fluids to a common volume, such as a reaction chamber or flow cell, without intermixing or cross contamination. The direction and rate of flow through junctions, nodes and passages of the fluidics circuit are controlled by the states of upstream valves (e.g. opened or closed), differential fluid pressures at circuit inlets or upstream reservoirs, flow path resistances, and the like. Free diffusion or leakage of fluids from unselected inlets into the common outlet or other inlets at junctions or nodes is prevented by the flow of the selected inlet fluid, a portion of which sweeps by the inlets of unselected fluids and exits the fluidics circuit by waste ports, thereby creating a barrier against undesired intermixing with the outlet flow through leakage or diffusion. The invention is particularly advantageous in apparatus for performing sensitive multistep reactions, such as pH-based DNA sequencing reactions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: LIFE TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jonathan SCHULTZ, David MARRAN
  • Publication number: 20140261734
    Abstract: An improved electromechanical apparatus for injecting or purging fluids on demand is disclosed. Also disclosed are systems and methods for using the apparatus, including automatic fertilizer injection/injecting and water line purging systems for use in lawn maintenance. The apparatus can be located in a main water line before the distribution valves of an irrigation system, for example, where it can be activated or deactivated without interfering with the normal usage of the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Martin Dunn
  • Publication number: 20140261735
    Abstract: This application discloses novel vacuum break devices useful in automatic vacuum flushing systems. The vacuum break devices are capable of rapidly breaking the vacuum in a storage tank of a sewer line, thus enabling efficient flushing of sediments and cleaning of the sewer system. The invention also provides automatic vacuum flushing systems comprising these novel rapid vacuum break devices and methods thereof for sewer or storage tank sediment cleaning in urban drainage systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Qizhong Guo, Yunjie Li
  • Publication number: 20140182699
    Abstract: A flushing tool for a perforated tubing in a production tubing string is described. The flushing tool includes a chamber that is sealed at a pressure at or below atmospheric pressure when the flushing tool is in its sealed configuration, the chamber arranged to receive wellbore fluids when the flushing tool is in its activated configuration. A port allows ingress of wellbore fluids into the chamber when the flushing tool is in its activated configuration. A sealing means has a first position when the flushing tool is in its sealed configuration and a second position when the flushing tool is in its activated configuration. An actuator releases the flushing tool from its sealed configuration to its activated configuration by releasing the sealing means to move from the first position to the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Applicant: PEAK WELL SYSTEMS PTY LTD
    Inventor: David J. Manson
  • Publication number: 20140150890
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for washing at least one cavity (20?) in a microfluidic component, the cavity (20?) containing a first liquid (F1) and at least one second liquid (F2) being supplied to the cavity (20?) for washing. According to the invention an air bubble (L) is supplied to the cavity (20?) before the washing liquid (F2) is introduced. The air bubble (L), which acts as a virtual barrier layer between the first liquid (F1) and the washing liquid (F2) that follows it enables the washing efficiency to be increased considerably. Overall, this method leads to a saving in washing liquid (F2) and washing time. Moreover, a microfluidic component is proposed for carrying out the method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2011
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: Boehringer Ingelheim Microparts GmbH
    Inventors: Wolfgang Stoeters, Ying Yu, Silke Knoll
  • Publication number: 20140144933
    Abstract: A hot melt adhesive system includes an adhesive supply and an adhesive supply heater associated with the adhesive supply for melting hot melt adhesive material into a liquid hot melt adhesive. An adhesive dispenser is fluidly coupled with the adhesive supply and includes an outlet for dispensing the liquid hot melt adhesive. A fluid passage extends from the adhesive supply to the outlet of the adhesive dispenser; and an adhesive degradation detection device is operatively coupled to the fluid passage. The adhesive degradation detection device includes an energy source for emitting energy into the liquid hot melt adhesive in the fluid passage. The adhesive degradation detection device further includes a detector configured for detecting attenuated energy that emerges from the liquid hot melt adhesive. A controller operatively coupled to the adhesive degradation detection device can determine a degradation condition of the liquid hot melt adhesive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Applicant: NORDSON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Peter W. Estelle, Mark A. Gould, Laurence B. Saidman
  • Publication number: 20140130890
    Abstract: A method of descaling a water dispensing system included in a refrigerator appliance with a water dispenser is disclosed. The method of descaling includes the step of removing a water filter cartridge from a filter port of the refrigerator appliance wherein the filter port is in fluid communication with the water dispenser. The method also includes the step of inserting a descaling cartridge containing descaling fluid into the filter port of the refrigerator appliance. The method further includes the step of advancing the descaling fluid from the descaling cartridge through the water dispenser.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2012
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: KEVIN M. CHASE, THOMAS DELL SPICER, LINDSEY ANN WOHLGAMUTH
  • Publication number: 20140130891
    Abstract: A flush system for a dispenser nozzle may include a flush diverter and a carrier. The flush diverter may include a dispense position and a flush position. The carrier maneuvers the flush diverter to either the dispense position or the flush position with respect to the beverage dispenser nozzle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2014
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: THE COCA-COLA COMPANY
    Inventors: Ashraf Farid Abdelmoteleb, Fernando Peixoto Dias, Michael Isaac Joffe, Sean Pickett, Edwin Petrus Elisabeth van Opstal, Arthur G. Rudick, Mark Andrew Wilcock, Paul A. Phillips
  • Publication number: 20140116530
    Abstract: Automated condensate drain line cleaning apparatus are disclosed. In one aspect, an apparatus may include a controller, a fluid supply line, and at least one fluid flow regulation device. The at least one fluid flow regulation device may be electrically coupled with the controller to receive at least one control signal from the controller. The at least one fluid flow regulation device may cause a fluid to flow into a condensate drain line through the fluid supply line responsive to the at least one control signal. Other apparatus as well as methods and kits are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2014
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Inventor: Steven L. Pearson
  • Publication number: 20140060338
    Abstract: A supply container forming part of a descaling system of a flowline system includes a housing having a water inlet supplied by a water source. The water inlet opens into a reservoir chamber containing a water-soluble descaling agent. A bottom chamber is in fluid communication with the reservoir chamber. The bottom chamber is configured to collect the descaling agent dissolved by the water. A capillary line discharges a solution of the descaling agent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: Jutta Tembaak, Mario Last, Juergen Johann
  • Publication number: 20130340839
    Abstract: A method of disinfecting a valve configured for use as part of a water delivery system includes activating a heating element that is configured to heat a body of the valve to a temperature sufficient to kill organisms that may be present on internal surfaces of the valve, wherein the heating element and the valve are configured to be provided within the water delivery system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventor: Kevin T. Peel
  • Patent number: 8602046
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of using new flushing ports (1A, 1B) when cleaning a piston accumulator (7). Dirty hydraulic oil is returned out via the main port (2) and a return passage (9) until a cleanness grade has been reached. Clean hydraulic oil is forced into the piston accumulator (7) via the axial bores (3A, B) of the flushing ports (1A, B) and further in sloping bores (3C, D), bringing the hydraulic oil into the volume (8) in an upward, tangential direction below the piston (5), into a flushing circulation. By reducing the gas pressure on the gas side (4) of the piston (5) in relation to flushing pressure input from a valve (6), a volume (8) is created on the oil side between the piston (5) and the end bottom (3). The return passage (9) is closed and the piston (5) is brought into its upper position, so that an internal cylinder wall (10) is cleaned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Tool-Tech AS
    Inventor: Egil Eriksen
  • Publication number: 20130240049
    Abstract: A household cleaning appliance includes a bulk dispensing system configured to receive a removable cartridge containing multiple doses of treating chemistry and configured to deliver a charge of treating chemistry from the cartridge to a treating chamber and a water supply configured to be selectively coupled to the bulk dispensing system to flush at least a portion of the bulk dispensing system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: MICHAEL T. DALTON, MICHAEL S. HENDRICKSON
  • Publication number: 20130220431
    Abstract: The invention can provide or facilitate systems and methods for feeding a slurry and, in particular, to systems and methods for treating wastewater streams with a slurry having periodic flushing of conduits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: SIEMENS INDUSTRY, INC.
    Inventors: Timothy Frank Matheis, James Paul Harshman, Michael Sumner Murphy
  • Publication number: 20130220438
    Abstract: A method of producing and transporting crude oil, comprising extracting crude oil from a well; placing the crude oil in a pipeline to transport the crude oil away from the well, wherein at least a portion of the pipeline travels through an atmosphere having an ambient temperature less than 20° C.; and transporting the crude oil for a first time period at a low flow rate so that a precipitate forms on an inner wall of the pipeline; and transporting the crude oil for a second time period at a high flow rate so that the precipitate is cleared from the inner wall of the pipeline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2011
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Inventors: Gregory John Hatton, Chien Kuei Tsai
  • Publication number: 20130199625
    Abstract: A device for flushing a hydrant includes a stem connected to a valve of the hydrant; and an actuation system including a biased translational system coupled to the stem. An actuation system for flushing a hydrant includes a fluid; a piston assembly movable by the fluid; and a biasing element at least indirectly biasing the piston assembly towards a stop position. A method of flushing a hydrant includes operating an actuation system coupled to the hydrant, the actuation system including a stored energy device, a piston assembly coupled to a stem of the hydrant; and a biasing element coupled to the stem, the stem connected to a valve of the hydrant; and opening the valve of the hydrant by releasing energy from the stored energy device against a piston plate of the piston assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventor: Mueller International, LLC
  • Patent number: 8475603
    Abstract: The invention is directed toward a system and method for sanitizing a condensate drain to reduce sludge and related pathogens. The system is directed to a sanitizing assembly having a treatment chamber connected to the condensate drain, where the treatment chamber includes a top end and a shaft. A spray assembly is positioned proximate to the top end of the treatment chamber. This spray assembly has a nozzle spray connected to a hot water source. A spray controller within the spray assembly helps disperse a sufficient quantity and pressure of hot water within the shaft to dislodge sludge, when necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: Stewart Kaiser
  • Patent number: 8459301
    Abstract: A connecting unit for a sanitary fitting is proposed, said connecting unit having, on one side thereof, plug-in sockets for connection to plug-in nipples of the sanitary fitting. On the opposite side, the connecting unit contains connections for the domestic installation pipes. The sanitary fitting and the connecting unit are connected by plugging in a direction parallel to the wall surface. The connecting unit may contain a flushing pipe which is designed as a continuous bore. When the connecting unit is not yet connected to the sanitary fitting, said flushing pipe can be used to flush out the pipes. Said flushing pipe is stopped from functioning when the connection between the sanitary fitting and the connecting unit is produced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Hansgrohe SE
    Inventor: Werner Lorch
  • Publication number: 20130139901
    Abstract: A rinsing line for discharging a rinsing fluid out of a medical technical functional device having been rinsed by means of the rinsing fluid is described, in which the rinsing line is, on the one side, connected, provided or intended for being connected with a section of the medical technical functional device and in which the rinsing line is, on the other side, connected with, provided or intended for being connected with a fluid supplying device for supplying a medical fluid into the medical technical functional device. A medical technical functional device, a medical technical treatment apparatus, a method and a control unit are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicant: Fresenius Medical Care Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Juergen Haecker, Soeren Gronau
  • Patent number: 8430112
    Abstract: The invention can provide or facilitate systems and methods for feeding a slurry and, in particular, to systems and methods for treating wastewater streams with a slurry having periodic flushing of conduits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy Frank Matheis, James Paul Harshman, Michael Sumner Murphy
  • Publication number: 20130025697
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for removing fluid from a blood filter which is used for the blood treatment of a patient and/or for removing blood from an extracorporeal blood circuit at the end of a blood treatment session. It further relates to a medical treatment apparatus with a control and/or regulating device which executes the method according to the present invention. It further relates to a digital storage medium, a computer program product as well as a computer program for executing the method according to the present invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: FRESENIUS MEDICAL CARE DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
    Inventors: Marco Blasek, Joachim Noack
  • Publication number: 20130000744
    Abstract: A mobile cleansing device is described, having particular use for providing toilet and spill maintenance during water shortages and water stoppages. The device may include a tank, a releasing mechanism, a channel, and a valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventor: Mark Slye
  • Patent number: 8333082
    Abstract: An air conditioning system condensate collection pan or water leak containment pan electrical control switch includes a housing or frame for supporting a switch unit which includes an elongated actuator arm. The housing includes a slot disposed adjacent a distal end of the actuator arm for receiving a water soluble tablet engageable with the actuator arm to bias the arm into a predetermined position of the switch. Abnormal accumulation of condensate or leaking water dissolves the tablet and allows the actuator arm to move to a position to effect actuation of the switch. The switch may be connected to a control unit, a thermostat and/or to an alarm generator including a self-contained unit having battery powered audio and/or visual alarm devices, an on-off switch and a circuit test switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Inventor: Joe D. Robinson
  • Publication number: 20120234398
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for automatic flushing of fluid lines, in particular potable water lines. The invention further relates to a device for automatic flushing of fluid lines, in particular potable water lines. The invention is based on the technical problem to provide a method and a device for automatic flushing which allows a flushing behaviour that is better-suited to the circumstances and more reliable. The technical problem is solved by a method for automatic flushing of at least one fluid line, in particular a potable water line, in which a temperature profile of the fluid is measured, in which the measured data are evaluated and in which the automatic flushing of the at least one fluid line is influenced by an outcome of the evaluation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: VIEGA GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Stefan Leymann, Oliver Cyliax, Christian Becker, Stefan Schulte
  • Publication number: 20120199162
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are related to a method and an associated system for removing a forming or fully developed clog from a drain hose in a dishwasher. According to one embodiment, the system includes a drain pump configured to remove water from the dishwasher and a drain hose in fluid communication with the drain pump. The system further includes a control device in operable communication with the drain pump and configured to execute a drain routine in response to detecting a clog in the drain hose, wherein the drain routine comprises repeatedly activating and deactivating the drain pump to facilitate removal of the clog.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Inventors: Mark D. Montgomery, Virgil J. Francisco, Christopher B. Lambert, John DeFilippi
  • Publication number: 20120186661
    Abstract: The invention provides a method and apparatus for removing a blockage from a fluid conduit. An apparatus comprises a first portion containing a fluid volume separated from the fluid conduit via a controllable valve. The valve is cyclically opened and closed such that a pressure differential between the first portion and the fluid conduit causes a series of pressure pulses in the fluid conduit. The pressure differential is regulated to control the amplitude of the pressure pulses of the series.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: PARADIGM FLOW SERVICES LIMITED
    Inventor: Hugh MacKenzie
  • Publication number: 20120125445
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for cleaning deposits from one or more parts of an engine fuel delivery system, the method comprising introducing into the engine fuel delivery system a cleaning composition comprising (a) one or more aromatic hydrocarbon solvents; and (b) one or more propylene glycol ethers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2011
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Applicant: Chevron Oronite Company LLC
    Inventors: Felicia Simpson-Green, Damon Vaudrin
  • Patent number: 8122902
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for unclogging an obstructed conduit such as a wastewater pipe. The apparatus comprises at least one tube disposed in the drain pipe; and a fluid supply pipe for providing fluid from a fluid source, the supply pipe connected to the at least one tube that delivers the fluid to unclog the obstruction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Inventor: Rafael Malka
  • Patent number: 8124024
    Abstract: A cassette for preparing a sample is disclosed herein. The cassette includes a housing, which encloses the structures and the processes used to prepare the sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: GenturaDx, Inc.
    Inventors: Jesus Ching, David Hsiang Hu, Steve Jia Chang Yu, Phillip You Fai Lee
  • Patent number: 8104497
    Abstract: A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Marc Unger, Hou-Pu Chou, Todd Thorsen, Axel Scherer, Stephen Quake, Markus Enzelberger, Mark Adams, Carl Hansen
  • Publication number: 20120012188
    Abstract: The invention can provide or facilitate systems and methods for feeding a slurry and, in particular, to systems and methods for treating wastewater streams with a slurry having periodic flushing of conduits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2010
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Inventors: Timothy Frank Matheis, James Paul Harshman, Michael Sumner Murphy
  • Publication number: 20110290336
    Abstract: The present invention is a flush unit that can quickly and safely connect to a conventional soda fountain dispenser for cleaning the drain system of the dispenser. The flush unit comprises a one-piece unitary flush block or housing, a flexible hose, and a nozzle. The flush block comprises a fluid conduit having a water inlet port and a water outlet port. The flush block further comprises a plug port for plugging the syrup outlet port of a conventional back block. The water inlet and plug ports are spaced to engage with the water and syrup outlet ports, respectively, of the back block. The flush block further comprises a fastener adapted to engage with a fastener of the back block. The flexible hose has a first end connected by a fastener to the water outlet port of the flush block and a second end connected to the nozzle. The present invention allows a person to quickly connect the flush unit to a conventional dispenser and flush the drain system of the dispenser using its own hydrostatic water source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventors: Steven Wayne Campbell, Charles Ernest Smith, JR.
  • Publication number: 20110289927
    Abstract: A fuel system of a burner of a gas turbine and to a method for flushing a section of a fuel system of a burner of a gas turbine is provided. The method includes providing a feed line for feeding liquid fuel from a fuel source to the burner, providing a first and a second connection point to the feed line, providing a medium at the first connection point and generating a vacuum at the second connection point such that the fuel which is situated in the section between the two connection points is sucked out through the second connection point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventor: Ulrich Wagner
  • Publication number: 20110253227
    Abstract: A cleaning system for a dairy facility comprising a rinse system including a rinse sprayer, a flush system comprising a process system for processing waste water to obtain processed water, a collection system connected between the dairy facility and the process system, and a flush sprayer. The rinse sprayer sprays rinse water in a first zone of the dairy facility, where the rinse water becomes waste rinse water after the rinse water has been sprayed in the first zone of the dairy facility. The flush sprayer sprays the processed water in a second zone of the dairy facility, where the processed water becomes waste processed water after the processed water has been sprayed in the second zone of the dairy facility. The collection system collects the waste rinse water and the waste processed water to form the waste water and directs the waste water to the process system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Applicant: DARITECH, INC.
    Inventor: David DeWaard
  • Publication number: 20110232775
    Abstract: A housing containing a reservoir can be mounted to receive water from an outlet port of a humidifier system. A pump having a pump inlet hydraulically connected to the reservoir volume and a pump outlet adapted to connect to an inlet port on the humidifier system can be controlled to deliver water to the humidifier based on a control signal received at a processor. The reservoir can be flushed based on one or more of an elapsed operating time since the last flush and a total time since the last flush. Flushing can be performed using a re-fill port adapted to receive fresh water from an external water source and draining process that can include creating a siphoning action that causes the water to drain from the reservoir volume. Flow of fresh water into the re-fill port can also be controlled to maintain a proper working water level in the reservoir volume. Related systems, apparatus, methods, and/or articles are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2010
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventors: David R. Chale, Hao Wang, Jinmei Chen
  • Patent number: 8016802
    Abstract: A manifold for ostomy bag irrigation, including an inlet member having a channel defined therein, a T-member having a channel defined therein and in fluid communication with the inlet member, a left tube having a plurality of apertures defined therein and having one end coupled to the T-member, a right tube having a plurality of apertures defined therein and having one end coupled to the T-member, a left cap having a channel defined therein and coupled to the second end of the left tube, and a right cap having a channel defined therein and coupled to the second end of the right tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Schena
  • Publication number: 20110209774
    Abstract: An improved bidet device is set forth which includes a self cleaning spray tube having a housing with a first open end with respect to a water supply and a second open downstream end. A nozzle disposed within the housing, the nozzle having a plurality of radial holes therethrough and being adapted to receive water from the first open end of the housing. A spring wound about the nozzle, the spring tending to to retain the nozzle within the housing. Whereby water delivered to first open end of the housing flows through the radial holes of the nozzle, such that water is discharged from the holes and urges the nozzle to move from a first nozzle position within the housing to a second nozzle position outside the housing. Water discharged from the radial holes bathes an external surface of the nozzle such that the nozzle is self-cleaning. A method for cleaning a nozzle having a water supply is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2004
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Inventor: Warren Smith
  • Publication number: 20110209773
    Abstract: An arrangement and method for unloading raw material in connection with a cable manufacturing apparatus. The arrangement comprises a feed inlet connected to the cable manufacturing apparatus for feeding raw material into the cable manufacturing apparatus, the feed inlet being adapted to be connected to an unloading spout of the raw material. The arrangement further comprises sealing means for opening and closing the feed inlet when the unloading spout is connected to the feed inlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Applicant: MAILLEFER S.A.
    Inventors: Petri VETTERSTRAND, Jorma LEPPÄNEN, Juha HILTUNEN
  • Publication number: 20110180152
    Abstract: A nozzle system for mixing contents in a tank and scouring surfaces of debris and sediment is disclosed. The system is capable of use either below or above a tank's liquid content surface as well as being adaptable to flow channels and other surfaces which may become impeded with sediment and debris. The nozzle system includes at least one nozzle receiving fluid from a pump, and a splash plate positioned to deflect a discharged stream from the nozzle in a spread and downward direction. The number and positioning of additional nozzles in the system can be determined by mapping the discharge of each splash plate equipped nozzle and arranging for the desired area of coverage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2011
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Inventor: Glenn R. Dorsch