Distribution Systems Involving Geographic Features Patents (Class 137/236.1)
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Patent number: 9719973Abstract: In accordance with an example embodiment, a system is presented for collecting information about a crop to analyze the general health the crop relative to corresponding information from a previous information collection process. To ensure an optimal harvest, a field is typically treated with multiple material application steps. Starting with seed application, the system collects visual information and corresponding positioning data. With each subsequent application (e.g., fertilizer, pesticide, etc.), the information collection process is repeated. The new information is compared to corresponding information from a previous application step, such that the effectiveness of the prior application can be revealed.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2015Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: DEERE & COMPANYInventors: Terence D. Pickett, Timothy A. Wilcox
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Patent number: 9657850Abstract: A subsea pressure regulator includes: a spring housing; a spring disposed therein; a body having a bore formed therethrough and inlet and outlet ports; drive and balance adapters connected to opposite ends of the body; drive and balance plungers; and a supply seal assembly. Each plunger has: a piston shoulder engaged with the respective adapter, a first portion in fluid communication with an outlet chamber, and a second portion in fluid communication with ambient pressure. The supply seal assembly includes a seal carrier connected to the plungers and a seal bore formed therethrough. The spring biases the seal carrier toward an open position. The drive plunger is operable to move the seal carrier to a closed position in response to sufficient pressure in the outlet chamber overcoming the spring bias.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2015Date of Patent: May 23, 2017Assignee: Proserv Operations, Inc.Inventor: Andy Patterson
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Patent number: 9629313Abstract: A system for growing plants, the system may include a substrate having one or more weakened areas or openings: one or more grow portions coupled to the substrate and situated at the one or more weakened areas or openings and having at least one seed or plant; and/or a fluid distribution portion coupled to the substrate and configured to provide fluid to the one or more grow portions. The system may further include a method of operation including one or more acts of: obtaining a weather forecast for a future time period; determining whether rain is expected during the future time period; and preventing, terminating, or restricting an irrigation cycle when it is determined that rain is expected during the fare time period. The restricting may restrict a flow of liquid during the irrigation cycle or shorten the irrigation interval.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2014Date of Patent: April 25, 2017Inventor: Victor A. Grossman
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Patent number: 9611161Abstract: A circulating-water utilization system (1) to be constructed in a specific area includes; a circulation channel (2) having a closed loop shape through which circulating water flows; a discharge channel (4) through which wastewater discharged from a water consumer (3) is discharged to the circulation channel (2), the water consumer (3) being composed of water consuming members; a purifying unit (8) configured to purify the circulating water containing the wastewater flowing through the circulation channel (2); a supply channel (6) configured to supply the circulating water purified by the purifying unit (8) to the water consumer (3); water intake parts (10) for intake of the circulating water from the supply channel (6), disposed on the respective water consuming members; and sterilizing units (11) disposed on the respective water intake parts (10), and configured to individually sterilize the circulating water to be supplied to the respective water consuming members.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2014Date of Patent: April 4, 2017Assignee: MITSUBISHI HITACHI POWER SYSTEMS, LTD.Inventors: Hiroyuki Yagita, Junichi Minamiura, Jun Hyodo, Yukinobu Yokota, Hayato Shin, Riki Kitagawa
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Patent number: 9565812Abstract: Disclosed herein is a high growth, high density, closed environment growing system and methods thereof. A method of accelerating plant cell growth in a growing system may include adjusting the lighting in accordance with an identified plant growth stage.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2014Date of Patent: February 14, 2017Assignee: Crop One Holidings, Inc.Inventor: James G. Wilson
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Patent number: 9538733Abstract: A system and method of sustainable aquaponics that vertically integrates unique aquaponic system designs with alternative aquaculture fish feed sources, fingerling production methods, alternative aquaculture/farmed fish grow out models, and green energy sources that yield organic produce in the form of fruits and vegetables. A raceway system serves as the hub for grow-out throughout the warm and cold months. During the summer months, fish can be spawned and fed for steady growth, while during the winter months, the fish continue to grow at slower quite acceptable growth rates. Plants like legal (licensed) cannabis for medical use can be grown in plant areas near the raceways with very high yields.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2015Date of Patent: January 10, 2017Inventor: Trent Jones
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Patent number: 9532508Abstract: The locations of flowers on a plant, rather than the locations of agricultural products produced from such flowers, are used to facilitate the performance of harvesting and other agricultural operations in robotic agricultural applications. In some implementations, the identified location of a fruit-producing flower may be used by a robotic device to apply an indicator tag to a flowering plant proximate the flower for later identification when performing various types of directed and automated agricultural operations. In other implementations, the identified location of a fruit-producing flower may be used by a robotic device to anchor a stem of a flowering plant to a predetermined location such that the location of the flower, and of any fruit(s) later produced by such flower, are controlled and/or known when performing subsequent agricultural operations.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2015Date of Patent: January 3, 2017Assignee: X DEVELOPMENT LLCInventors: Mark Adrian Stubbs, Kevin James Fleming McCloskey
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Patent number: 9499249Abstract: A fresh water transportation system is disclosed that takes advantage of the buoyancy of fresh water in salt water to transport fresh water through a body of salt water. The fresh water flows from an above-water vessel through a down pipe supported on the sea bed, and through a curved pipe that redirects the fresh water flow upwardly. In an embodiment a gas, for example air or natural gas, is injected into the fresh water in the upwardly directed portion of the flow. An inclined compliant pipe receives the upwardly directed flow, such that the hydrostatic pressure is communicated to the fresh water, whereby the fresh water is urged through the compliant pipe.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 2015Date of Patent: November 22, 2016Inventor: Steven Clary Bowhay
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Patent number: 9482654Abstract: An inventory management method is also provided. This method includes removing and replacing the gas product from a first salt cavern as supply and demand dictate, analyzing the impurities in the gas product that is removed, predicting the duration until a maximum acceptable impurity limit is present, removing all the working gas from the first salt cavern when the maximum acceptable impurity limit is reached, then replacing the working gas in the first salt cavern, while concurrently, removing and replacing the gas product from a second salt cavern as supply and demand dictate, analyzing the impurities in the gas product that is removed, predicting the duration until a maximum acceptable impurity limit is present, removing all the working gas from the second salt cavern when the maximum acceptable impurity limit is reached, then replacing the working gas in the second salt cavern, while concurrently repeating steps a)-g).Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2015Date of Patent: November 1, 2016Assignee: Air Liquide Large Industries U.S. LPInventor: Ronald Strybos
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Patent number: 9458944Abstract: A hydraulic safety and movement control system has an actuating cylinder or a hydraulic motor which serves to set a fitting which is preferably relevant to safety and by means of which a fluid flow, for example of a power plant or of a turbine is regulated. The system has a hydraulic control arrangement by means of which a piston or a piston rod of the actuating cylinder or a motor shaft of the hydraulic motor can be moved continuously in a control mode or normal mode. Furthermore, the system has a hydraulic safety arrangement or safety circuit by means of which the piston and/or the piston rod or the motor shaft and therefore the fitting can be moved into a predetermined safe position in the event of a system failure or in an emergency mode.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2014Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Dirk Bracht, Helmut Fischer
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Patent number: 9419288Abstract: An improved emergency power system is disclosed for providing electrical power to a load such as a blowout preventer of a petroleum drilling apparatus. The improved emergency power system comprises a thermal battery having an anode and a cathode with a separator containing an electrolyte disposed therebetween. An internal heat layer is located in proximity to the separator containing the electrolyte. A squib is provided for activating the internal heat layer. The thermal battery remains dormant until the squib is energized to ignite the squib enabling the heat layer to render the electrolyte molten thereby activating battery to provide electrical power to the load. The squib may be energized remotely, mechanically or electrically.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2011Date of Patent: August 16, 2016Assignee: ENERSYS ADVANCED SYSTEMS, INC.Inventors: Bradford A. Wood, James K. Pugh, Juan A. Cubero
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Patent number: 9395001Abstract: A nozzle assembly comprises a hollow nozzle body having a central bore and a plurality of ports extending through the body from the central bore; and a switching valve cartridge disposed in the central bore that directs fluid flow to ports upon application of fluid flow above a predetermined threshold to the inlet and direct fluid flow to different ports upon fluid flow having subsequently dropped below the predetermined threshold and then exceeding the predetermined threshold. The cartridge comprises a cylindrical cartridge case having a front portion and a cup shaped rear portion, a cylindrical poppet slidably disposed within the cup shaped rear portion of the cartridge case, and a biasing member within the cartridge case between the front portion of the case and the poppet urging the poppet away from the front portion of the cartridge case.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2014Date of Patent: July 19, 2016Assignee: Stoneage, Inc.Inventor: Colton Andersen
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Patent number: 9395045Abstract: An underwater carbon dioxide storage facility including a carbon dioxide deposit stored underwater as a clathrate includes a flexible barrier disposed at least partially over the carbon dioxide deposit. The carbon dioxide deposit may be stored in or at the bottom of a body of water.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2012Date of Patent: July 19, 2016Assignee: Elwha LLCInventors: Kenneth G. Caldeira, Philip A. Eckhoff, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Roderick A. Hyde, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
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Patent number: 9371830Abstract: A refueling system for supplying fuel to hydraulic fracturing equipment. The refueling system having a main fuel source and at least one pressurization unit. The pressurization unit having a pump, a motor, a motor fuel source, a supply coupling device and a return coupling device. The refueling system having sensors in the one or more supply fuel lines and in the one or more return fuel lines for receiving flow rate information and pressure information, wherein the flow rate information and pressure information is compared to preset limits and a message is transmitted when the flow rate information and pressure information falls below or exceeds the preset limits to adjust rates of operation.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2015Date of Patent: June 21, 2016Inventor: Roy Malcolm Moffitt, Jr.
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Patent number: 9304269Abstract: A subsea cable termination assembly for a subsea cable that includes an optical fiber for data transmission is provided. The subsea cable termination assembly includes a chamber that has a liquid tight seal against an ambient medium surrounding the subsea cable termination assembly, and a media converter arranged in the chamber. The media converter includes an optical interface adapted to be connected to an optical fiber of the subsea cable, and an electrical interface. The subsea cable termination assembly also includes an electric contact arranged outside the chamber and electrically connected to the electrical interface of the media converter arranged inside the chamber.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2013Date of Patent: April 5, 2016Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Endre Fosso Jamtveit, Trond Holger Villmark
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Patent number: 9217517Abstract: A method for installing an underwater riser between a seabed (52) and a surface (12), and a tubular pipe suspended from a float (24): The float (24) is weighted to be able to submerge it to drive one pipe end (28) toward the seabed (52) for connecting the tubular pipe at the seabed. Unwinding the flexible pipe (20) to extend it catenary fashion between the float (24) and a surface installation (10) so as to weight the float (24) with the unwound flexible pipe (20) and cause the submersion of the float (24), whereby the other pipe end (28) is driven toward the seabed (52).Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2012Date of Patent: December 22, 2015Assignee: TECHNIP FRANCEInventor: Ange Luppi
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Patent number: 9062515Abstract: A method and apparatus are for supplying liquids for scale treatment and killing to a subsea well, where the subsea well is provided with a tree which has a swab valve and a coupling for a tree cap.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2012Date of Patent: June 23, 2015Assignee: Subsea Solutions ASInventor: Torfinn Borsheim
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Patent number: 8978689Abstract: A system is disclosed for supplying natural gas to a sales line, the system comprising: an inlet connected to receive natural gas from a well; an outlet connected to discharge the natural gas to a sales line; piping between the inlet and the outlet; a moisture sensor on the piping for detection of a predetermined moisture level in the natural gas; a shutdown valve, on the piping, connected to close upon detection by the moisture sensor of a moisture level at or above the predetermined moisture level; an odorant addition unit on the piping; and a gas analyzer on the piping for tracking the volume and heating value of natural gas discharged through the outlet. A method of supplying natural gas to a sales line is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2011Date of Patent: March 17, 2015Inventor: Greg Albert O'Hare
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Patent number: 8950419Abstract: A method and system for supplying additional hydrogen from a reservoir of stored hydrogen in a salt cavern to a hydrogen pipeline to assist in meeting customer demand for hydrogen is provided. Contaminants introduced while the stored hydrogen stream is in the salt cavern may cause the crude hydrogen stream to not have the required product purity specification. The stored hydrogen is removed from the salt cavern as a crude hydrogen stream and thereafter diluted with higher purity hydrogen formed from the pipeline to form a hydrogen product stream at or below the product purity specification. The hydrogen product can be formed without removal of any of the contaminants in the crude stream, thereby creating a more cost effective and simplified supply process compared to conventional processes employing a salt cavern for hydrogen supply.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2012Date of Patent: February 10, 2015Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.Inventors: Rommel M. Oates, Solomon Dadebo
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Patent number: 8926218Abstract: A structural support system creates and maintains useful void space for the storage or detention of fluids within an underground chamber. The support system includes one or more hollow members that are generally triangular in cross section, with open ends and a plurality of apertures that allow the hollow members to remain in fluid communication when bundled together. Stored or detained fluids flow around and through the support system as the fluid level rises or falls according to the volume of fluids introduced or withdrawn from the chamber.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2011Date of Patent: January 6, 2015Inventor: Edward W. Savage
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Patent number: 8905677Abstract: The inventive subject matter provides apparatus, systems and methods by which one can safely and effectively store fluids in undersea environments. Fluid is stored in a flexible bladder that is at least partially enclosed in a vessel. The bladder is coupled to a support, which supports the weight of the bladder with the aid of a support driver. A sensor may be used to monitor the position of the support, allowing determination of the volume of the bladder.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2012Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Assignee: Fluor Technologies CorporationInventor: Savanna Hantz
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Patent number: 8875730Abstract: A control device is provided with a switching valve mechanism and first and second actuators. The switching valve mechanism is provided with a valve element for switching which is located within a casing. The valve element can linearly move between an open position at which first and second pressure change chambers of the casing are communicated with each other and a closed position at which the communication is interrupted. The valve element is held at the open position and the closed position by a first holding mechanism (toggle spring). When a float ascends to a first water level, the first actuator moves the valve element from the closed position to the open position. When the degree of vacuum within a pressure detection chamber becomes a second degree of vacuum or less, the second actuator moves the valve element from the open position to the closed position.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2010Date of Patent: November 4, 2014Assignee: Torishima Pump Mfg. Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yoshitami Muraki
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Patent number: 8857730Abstract: A sump sprinkler system for use with residential and commercial buildings. The sump sprinkler system comprises a system controller and a sprinkler pump in communication with the system controller. The sump sprinkler system also comprises an intake tube connected to the sprinkler pump, wherein the intake having an end arranged in a sump of a building. The sump sprinkler system also comprises at least one sprinkler connected to the output of the sprinkler pump, wherein the sprinkler is in communication with the system controller. The sump sprinkler system also comprises a water level member in communication with the system controller, wherein the water level member is arranged in the sump.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2012Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Assignee: M.E.C. SystemsInventors: David Hartfelder, Andrea Hartfelder
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Publication number: 20140193205Abstract: Disclosed are pipeline systems, methods and apparatus for handling fluids in offshore oil and gas production. The systems disclosed allow subsea functional lines having diameters which differ by more than 2 standard API 5L pipeline diameters to be placed in fluid communication in such a way that the systems are piggable. Pipeline connection terminations are installed to facilitate connection of such functional lines. Such systems offer solutions to problems related to installing subsea pipeline in rough terrain, over subsea canyons and subsea scarps, installing marine risers, and long tiebacks.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2013Publication date: July 10, 2014Applicant: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: Farzan Parsinejad, Antonio Carlos Falcao Critsinelis, Sid A. Mebarkia, Christopher Allen Kassner, Brooks Gerard Johnson
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Patent number: 8739830Abstract: An irrigation system includes a control arrangement which receives field information relating to an area to be irrigated and source information relating to one or more water sources which supply water to the irrigation system. The control arrangement optimizes an irrigation plan based on the field information and source information and then controls one or more irrigators in accordance with the plan. The control arrangement may pulse valves positioned on the irrigator on and off in order to control the amount of water applied to the land by individual outlets on the irrigator. Latching valves may be used.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2009Date of Patent: June 3, 2014Assignee: Lindsay CorporationInventors: Stuart Francis Bradbury, Michael George Ricketts
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Patent number: 8720470Abstract: The various embodiments herein disclose a system and a method for regulating a flow of fluid stream in fluid storage and dispensing systems. The system comprising a valve arrangement including a compressed air unit bloated by a connecting air inlet tube, a frame and a valve elevating means to mount the valve arrangement on the frame, several sensors to detect one crisis factor, a communication unit, a data logger and processing unit, a remote management system and several actuators to regulate the operation of the valve arrangement. The valve arrangement shuts down the outflow of fluid stream on receiving a valve shutdown signal from one of the sensors and data processing unit in case of a crisis detection. The data processing unit informs the remote management system to take adequate safety measures through the communication unit.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2012Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Inventors: Abdollah Hosseini, Vahid Saadatmand, Reza Giyahi
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Patent number: 8714262Abstract: According to an embodiment, a method of limiting the amount of oil in a sea comprises: positioning a device for directing the flow of a fluid adjacent to a wellhead, wherein the device comprises: a first fluid passageway; a second fluid passageway; a third fluid passageway, wherein the first fluid passageway is operatively connected to the second and third fluid passageways; and a fluid director, wherein the fluid director is operatively connected to the first, second, and third fluid passageways, and wherein depending on at least one of the properties of a fluid, the fluid director directs the fluid to increasingly flow into the second or third fluid passageways. This embodiment is useful in limiting the amount of oil when a blowout has occurred.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2011Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, IncInventors: Michael L. Fripp, Jason D. Dykstra
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Patent number: 8631815Abstract: A pump attachment interface provides a fixed link between a first line in communication with a fluid reservoir, and a second line in communication with a mobile storage tank via a pump of a pump truck. The interface includes an interface body with a sloping surface that supports a fixed conduit such that a lower end of the conduit is at a height that is lower than an upper end of the conduit. The lower end is for coupling to the first line, and the second end is for coupling to the second line. The attachment interface also has a spill containment catch basin over which the second end of the conduit is located so as to catch any spillage from the second line when it is coupled to the conduit. The body can be a concrete block, or be molded plastic filled with sand or water.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2011Date of Patent: January 21, 2014Inventor: Randal K. VanConett
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Patent number: 8596300Abstract: For pulsed injection of liquids into the ground, the tool has a rotating cylinder, having through-slots. The tool has an insert, which is pressed against the rotating cylinder. As the cylinder rotates, the slots in the rotor cover/uncover the slots in the insert, creating the required pulses. By suitably shaping the slots, the pulses can have a fast rise-time from closed to open. The insert is shaped to minimize flow interference.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2010Date of Patent: December 3, 2013Assignee: Wavefront Reservoir Technologies Ltd.Inventors: Benjamin Eric Graham, Andre Michael Masse, Brett Charles Davidson
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Patent number: 8591147Abstract: In a water storage system with water conduits, water pumps, drain valves, discharge valves, for storing a first volume of water, a method of maximizing water availability monitors a second volume of water within the system. Data regarding forecasted precipitation predicted to occur at some point in the future, including a predicted duration, intensity and volume are received and an expected time-dependent volume of water to be added to the system during the forecasted precipitation is estimated. If at least one of: a first sum of the predicted volume and the second volume and a second sum of the expected time-dependent volume and the second volume is greater than the first volume then the water pumps, drain valves, and discharge valves are controlled to discharge water until each of the first and second sums is not greater than the first volume.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2010Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: Geosyntec Consultants, Inc.Inventors: Marcus Quigley, Philip Reidy
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Patent number: 8561633Abstract: The steel-reinforced HDPE rain harvesting system collects, stores, and pumps harvested rain water for a variety of non-portable uses. The rain harvesting system includes either a horizontally disposed or vertically disposed steel-reinforced plastic cylindrical wetwell connected to an inlet pipe. The inlet pipe discharges rain water into a rain filter made from a pervious concrete manhole lined with a replaceable 20-micron filter cloth. The rain filter allows rain water into the storage section of the wetwell. A high water alarm is disposed in the rain filter and alerts maintenance personnel to clean the filter when needed. A submersible pump is housed in an HDPE pump sleeve outside the wetwell and conveys effluent from a forcemain at the wetwell's bottom portion to a target area. A level monitoring system disposed inside the wetwell selectively activates the pumping system. Maintenance hatches atop the unit are included.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2010Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Inventors: Daniel M. Early, Scott F. Easter
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Patent number: 8555911Abstract: A method and apparatus protecting a water distribution system from main breaks caused by sudden pressure spikes in the distribution system. A surge suppressor apparatus may include a surge suppressor tank. The surge suppressor tank may be a hollow, cylindrical container adapted to retain liquid. The surge suppressor apparatus may also include a tee pipe integrally formed to the suppressor tank. The tee pipe is sized so that it connects to an underground supply pipe. End caps may be integrally formed to the suppressor tank. The end caps create an airtight seal in the surge suppressor tank.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2008Date of Patent: October 15, 2013Inventor: Howard Heil
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Publication number: 20130240636Abstract: A portable vegetation treatment system includes a primary pump, a secondary pump, an intake-port assembly, a distribution assembly, and a control assembly. The primary pump is configured to couple with a diluent source while the secondary pump is configured to couple with a reservoir, containing a chemically-based fluid. The chemically-based fluid may be a concentrate, pre-mixed concentrate or other fluid(s), requiring dilution or combination with another fluid before application. The secondary pump includes components that meter one or more chemically-based fluids, during active operation. These components also substantially restrict migration or inappropriate flow of the chemically-based fluid when the system is inactive or in a passive state.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2012Publication date: September 19, 2013Applicant: Helena Holding CompanyInventor: Kelly Mark Duffie
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Patent number: 8517044Abstract: A hydrocarbon transfer system includes a first and second floating structure and a substantially horizontal transfer pipe system submerged below water level interconnecting the floating structures. The transfer pipe system includes a flow line support member which is with at least one end attached to a connection head, a number of hydrocarbon flow lines being connected along the support member via carrier members. The connection head includes a cable or chain connected to one of the floating structures, connectors situated on the connection head or at the position of the support member near the connection head, which connectors are on one side in fluid connection with the flow lines and on the other side in fluid connection with a flexible flow line extending from the connection head to the floating structure.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2009Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Single Buoy Moorings Inc.Inventors: Jack Pollack, Paul Brown, Lionel Fromage, Mamoun Naciri
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Publication number: 20130206237Abstract: Techniques, systems and material are disclosed for transport of energy and/or materials. In one aspect a method includes generating gaseous fuel (e.g., from biomass dissociation) at a first location of a low elevation. The gaseous fuel can be self transported in a pipeline to a second location at a higher elevation than the first location by traveling from the first location to the second location without adding energy of pressure. A liquid fuel can be generated at the second location of higher elevation by reacting the gaseous fuel with at least one of a carbon donor, a nitrogen donor, and an oxygen donor harvested from industrial waste.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2012Publication date: August 15, 2013Applicant: McAlister Technologies, LLCInventor: Roy Edward McAlister
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Patent number: 8402983Abstract: An economical system provides gaseous hydrocarbon to numerous locations (16, 18) that are each in the vicinity of an ocean coast, such as islands in a developing country, so the coastal inhabitants have access to low cost, easily supplied by pipeline and clean-burning natural gas. The system includes a local supply station (24), or hub, that stores natural gas, as by receiving LNG (liquefied natural gas) that has been liquefied by cooling it to ?160° C., from a large tanker (20) having a storage capacity of over 50 million standard cubic feet of natural gas. Shuttle boats (40) that each has a much smaller LNG storage capacity than the tanker, load LNG from the local supply station, carry it to one of a plurality of local coastal stations (12, 14), heat the LNG to produce gaseous hydrocarbons, and transfer the gaseous hydrocarbons to an offshore receiving facility of the local coastal station.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2006Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Assignee: Single Bouy Moorings, Inc.Inventors: Leon Andre Harland, Mohsin Siddiqui, Willem Cornelis Van Wijngaarden
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Patent number: 8297881Abstract: A saltwater intrusion prevention system for use at an interface between a fresh water body and a saltwater body includes a water recovery subsystem for recovering fresh water from a fresh water body. A retention reservoir in fluid communication with the water recovery subsystem receives and redirects the recovered fresh water. A saltwater intrusion barrier subsystem in fluid communication with the retention reservoir is positioned at an interface of the fresh water body and the saltwater body. The saltwater intrusion barrier subsystem includes a plurality of submerged return discharge ports for vertically ejecting the recovered fresh water for providing hydraulic mounding zone, and a fine air bubbler header for creating a mixing zone. The hydraulic mounding zone and the mixing zone increase the density of the fresh water for offsetting saltwater from the saltwater body.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2004Date of Patent: October 30, 2012Assignee: Saltwater Separation, L.L.C.Inventor: Wayne W. Spani
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Patent number: 8216455Abstract: A plurality of buildings each have a plurality of primary devices adapted to dispense potable water and a plurality of secondary devices adapted to dispense salt water. A primary feed line and branch feed lines convey the potable water to the primary devices. A secondary feed line and secondary branch feed lines convey the salt water to the secondary devices.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2009Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Inventor: Mackenzie Anne O'Brien
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Patent number: 8156953Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for regulating a pressure in a hydraulic system for operating at least one actuator in a subsea installation, having a fluid supply line (102) connected to a source of pressurized fluid (101) at a remote location delivering fluid at a constant pressure to the subsea installation, comprising first and second control valves (103, 105) controlled by an electronic control unit (107), and at least one pressure sensor (106) and an accumulator (104) arranged between the first and second control valve (103, 105), where the pressure in the fluid supply line (102?) to the actuator is regulated by regulating the pressure in the accumulator (104) by adding fluid from the source of pressurized fluid (101) through the first control valve (103) if the pressure is too low or releasing pressure through the second control valve (105) to a fluid return line (120) if the pressure is too high and thereby establishing the desired pressure for operating the actuator.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2008Date of Patent: April 17, 2012Assignee: FMC Kongsberg Subsea ASInventor: Johannes Tore Tveita
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Publication number: 20120085431Abstract: An improved downspout diverter to diffuse water flowing out of a downspout in order to avoid erosion. The improved downspout diverter employs a highly effective progression of diffuser elements, and also provides a more aesthetic appearance, improved manufacturability, a stronger molded design, and eliminates the problem of debris clogging the diverter.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 12, 2011Publication date: April 12, 2012Inventors: William J. Spano, JR., Michael E. Hart
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Publication number: 20120043268Abstract: Brine disposal systems are configured to receive brine from a brine source and to passively collect seawater from a nearby ocean during high tide using one or more tidal forces. Tidal movements during high tide, low tide, or both may be used to mix and thereby dilute the brine with the seawater. The mixture of seawater and brine is then passively discharged into the ocean during low tide using the tidal force, thereby minimizing the impacts on the marine ecosystem.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 17, 2010Publication date: February 23, 2012Applicant: EMPIRE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT LLCInventors: Sung-Wei Chen, Colin Chan
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Patent number: 8113740Abstract: A precast concrete storm water vault comprised of modular precast concrete components is provided. More specifically, a vault is provided that consists of a perimeter of footings with integral vertical walls extending therefrom that supports precast concrete roof panels that comprise the top horizontal structural for the placement of pavers, a fill, base, or a driving surface. The storm water vault disclosed may be combined with a filtration system and has easily removable roof panels that facilitates maintenance and cleaning.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2009Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Oldcastle Precast, Inc.Inventors: J. Brad Boulton, Steve Kingsland
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Publication number: 20120031505Abstract: Systems and methods for providing irrigation to plants are provided. The system generally includes a fluid distribution structure having a barrier layer and a hydrophilic layer. The fluid distribution structure can additionally include a plurality of channels. Each channel can be associated with a non-woven material or other volume providing element overlayed by a filter layer. A fluid supply tube may be provided at a first end of the fluid distribution structure, and a drainage tube may be disposed along a second end of the fluid distribution structure. Where the fluid distribution structure includes channels, a supply tube and a drainage tube, the channels generally extend between the supply tube and the drainage tube. Fluid collected by the drainage tube can be recirculated to the supply tube, or can be collected or disposed of.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 29, 2011Publication date: February 9, 2012Applicant: INVENTAGON LLCInventor: Jarl Jensen
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Patent number: 8074670Abstract: An underground porosity reservoir includes substantially impermeable barriers and an aquiclude surrounding a volume of alluvial materials for storing water within the pore spaces of the alluvial materials. Upstream and downstream ends of the reservoir define both a static storage portion (extending below an elevation of the downstream end of the reservoir) and an elevated wedge-shaped portion that extends above the static portion. Once the static portion of the reservoir is filled, additional amounts of water are dynamically stored within the wedge portion by removing water from the downstream end of the reservoir and adding water to the upstream end of the reservoir. Water may be recirculated within the wedge portion, or external water may be added to the upstream end of the reservoir at a first flow rate while water is removed from the downstream end of the reservoir at a similar flow rate.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2007Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Assignee: PS Systems, Inc.Inventors: Stanley R. Peters, Donald O. Summers
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Patent number: 8051872Abstract: A subsea equipment (1) used for natural gas or crude oil production, such as a subsea actuator (2) for a valve, a restrictor or the like, a control module or other means, comprises at least an oil-filled first component (3) and a compensator unit (4) which is associated with said first component and which is in fluid communication therewith for pressure compensation. To improve such a subsea equipment in a structurally simple manner in such a way that it is capable of functioning and that pressure compensation is still possible, even if the associated compensator unit is damaged or fails to operate, a second compensator unit (5) is in fluid communication with said first component (3) or said first compensator unit (4) for pressure compensation.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2005Date of Patent: November 8, 2011Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventor: Norbert Lenz
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Patent number: 8028713Abstract: An underground water storage tank which rarely causes water leakage, and which largely increases an amount of water to be stored therein having an internal water storage sub-tank 11 provided by coating an assembly of water-bearing materials 12 obtained by combining multiple water-bearing materials 12 with one another with a first water-impermeable sheet 14; soil pressure absorption plates 26 provided outside the internal water storage sub-tank 11; and a second water-impermeable sheet 27 for coating the soil pressure absorption plates 26. The water-bearing materials are rigid pipes 12 made of resin and the assembly of the water-bearing materials is formed by mutually and parallel coupling the multiple rigid pipes 12 by pipe coupling means 13 in a state that the multiple rigid pipes 12 are vertically set and arranged at predetermined intervals therebetween in a horizontal direction.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2005Date of Patent: October 4, 2011Assignee: Totetu Mfg. Co. Ltd.Inventor: Seiichiro Takai
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Patent number: 7926501Abstract: Systems and methods for recovering power fluid from a device under water and for pumping recovered power fluid to a surface of the water, the systems and methods, in certain aspects, including: flowing fluid from a subsurface apparatus to a subsurface recovery system, the fluid initially provided to the subsurface apparatus to power the subsurface apparatus; and the subsurface recovery system including pump apparatus for selectively pumping recovered fluid to a fluid container above a surface of the water. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims, 37 C.F.R. 1.72(b).Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2007Date of Patent: April 19, 2011Assignee: National Oilwell Varco L.P.Inventors: Frank Benjamin Springett, Eric Trevor Ensley
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Patent number: 7857546Abstract: A method of and apparatus for controlling drainage/irrigation of a field includes laying out a network of spaced, interconnected water level-responsive valves coupled to drainage tiles, which typically may include a main line and a number of lateral lines, extending from higher elevations to lower elevations and exiting through a manually controlled main valve to a drainage ditch. When the water level adjacent a valve is below a predetermined level, the valve is open allowing water to flow down to the lowest level. As the ambient water level in the soil rises, the valve's float also rises, causing the valve to close when the water reaches a predetermined level and producing a “terracing” effect wherein the rising water is sequentially stored at increasingly higher elevations for irrigating these elevated areas. Overflow conduits associated with each valve allow water to discharge into the drainage ditch when the sub-surface water level is too high.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2008Date of Patent: December 28, 2010Inventors: Brian Scott Furrer, Ronald Gene Schlatter, G. Jason Furrer
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Publication number: 20100269914Abstract: For pulsed injection of liquids into the ground, the tool has a rotating cylinder, having through-slots. The tool has an insert, which is pressed against the rotating cylinder. As the cylinder rotates, the slots in the rotor cover/uncover the slots in the insert, creating the required pulses. By suitably shaping the slots, the pulses can have a fast rise-time from closed to open. The insert is shaped to minimize flow interference.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 21, 2010Publication date: October 28, 2010Applicant: Wavefront Reservoir Technologies Ltd.Inventors: Benjamin Eric Graham, Andre Michael Masse, Brett Charles Davidson
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Patent number: RE42632Abstract: A recessed, frostproof water faucet having a tubular stem connected to a pivot plumbing unit connected to a subsurface water line through the rear wall of a box-like recess unit. A slider connector connects the water faucet tubular stem and the access panel or lid of the recess unit. The lid pivots on hinges and as one lifts the lid, the faucet is lifted by the slider connector from a horizontal storage position to a vertical locked position for use, the slider connector being connected to a faucet flange and sliding along grooves in tracks mounted along the inner side of the lid. A sliding hinge locks the lid upright, sliding downward along the upper end of the rear wall. The faucet is returned to the storage position by pulling upward and lowering to the closed position, the slider connector sliding forward along the grooves to the stored position.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2005Date of Patent: August 23, 2011Assignee: M & H Waterworks, L.L.C.Inventor: Danny Heflin