By Optical Or Chemical Property Patents (Class 137/93)
  • Patent number: 7631566
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for diluting and cooling that is extracted from high temperature and/or high pressure industrial processes. Through a feedback process, a specialized, CFD-modeled dilution cooler is employed along with real-time estimations of the point at which condensation will occur within the dilution cooler to define a level of dilution and diluted gas temperature that results in a gas that can be conveyed to standard gas analyzers that contains no condensed hydrocarbon compounds or condensed moisture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Gas Technology Institute
    Inventors: William Earl Farthing, Larry Gordon Felix, Todd Robert Snyder
  • Patent number: 7617836
    Abstract: A supply system for supplying a functional water to a process unit which treats a substrate using the functional water is provided. In the system, the functional water generated in the functional water generator is supplied to a distributor through a functional water supply pipe. Thereafter, the functional water is supplied to the process unit while the process unit performs a process, and the functional water is returned to the functional water generator through a functional water returning pipe while the process unit does not perform a process. A buffer tank is installed in the functional water supply pipe and the concentration of the functional water is measured in a circulation line connected with the buffer tank. When the measured concentration of the functional water goes out of a set concentration range, the functional water is returned to the functional water generator through functional water returning pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Semes Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ju-Won Kim, Doo-Keun An, Kwang-Il Choi, Pyong-Soon Jung, Yong-Nam Choi, Jeong-Yong Bae
  • Publication number: 20090242038
    Abstract: A fuel management system mounted on a vehicle is operative to feed individually or a mixture of grades of relatively low, intermediate, and high autoignition temperature fuels to an associated internal combustion engine. The system includes an on board separation unit (OBS unit) for receiving and separating intermediate autoignition temperature (IAT) fuel into low and high autoignition temperature fuels, LAT and HAT, respectively. The production rate of the LAT and HAT fuels by the OBS unit is controlled to substantially match the consumption requirements of the engine at any given time for the LAT and HAT fuels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventors: Bhaskar Sengupta, Krishnan Kumaran, Walter Weissman, Randall D. Partridge
  • Patent number: 7537018
    Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention is a method for creating and maintaining a partial vapor pressure in a sample chamber of a sorption analyzer. A first dry gas flow is purged from a first mass flow controller through a saturator to produce a near-saturated gas flow. The near-saturated gas flow is mixed with a second dry gas flow from a second mass flow controller to produce a mixed gas flow with a predetermined partial vapor pressure. The mixed gas flow is directed into the sample chamber. If the lowest possible vapor pressure is required in the sample chamber, the first dry gas flow is directed around the saturator to the sample chamber and vapor migrating from the saturator is vented to the atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: Waters Investments Limited
    Inventors: Brian Curran, Eric Pilacek
  • Publication number: 20090118478
    Abstract: A process for the preparation of a desired chemical compound in a continuous reactor in which a part of the product stream exits the reactor and part of the product stream is recycled around the reactor in order to reduce the amount of buffer that would otherwise be required.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2005
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Applicant: FUJIFILM Imaging Colorants Limited
    Inventors: David Martin Payne, Douglas John Edwin Spencer, John Heathcote Atherton, Zachary Richard Meadows
  • Patent number: 7448102
    Abstract: A method for supplying liquid mixtures on a mix-on-demand basis for consumptive use, and for maintaining the composition of such mixture on a highly accurate and stable basis. For wet-on-wet processing of fabrics, the processing solution is supplied at start-up on a mix-on-demand basis to precise specifications and is maintained at such precise specifications throughout fabric processing, which involves continuous additions of water by the incoming fabric and removal of solution by the exiting fabric. Recirculation of the solution at a high rate, together with rapid and repetitive measurements of the composition of the recirculating solution enables the solution to be precisely monitored and maintained. Periodic small additions of chemical are injected as necessary to maintain highly stable, accurately controlled process conditions. Extraordinary economies, both direct and indirect, can be realized with the new system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Tubular Textile Machinery, Inc.
    Inventors: William D. Milligan, E. Scott Allison, Eric A. Best
  • Patent number: 7438079
    Abstract: Method for supplying a high purity gas product comprising providing a first gas stream including a major component and at least one impurity component, determining the concentration of the at least one impurity component, and comparing the concentration so determined with a reference concentration for that component. When the value of the concentration so determined is less than or equal to the reference concentration, the first gas stream is utilized to provide the high purity gas product. When the value of the concentration so determined is greater than the reference concentration, a second gas stream comprising the major component is provided and the first and second gas streams are mixed to yield a mixed gas stream having a concentration of the at least one impurity component that is less than the reference concentration. The mixed gas stream is utilized to provide the high purity gas product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Perry Cohen, Frank Kenneth Schweighardt, David John Farese
  • Patent number: 7404411
    Abstract: A process and system for the analysis and/or control of a mixture of liquid hydrocarbons and biodiesel to determine biodiesel concentration includes a) measuring the near infrared absorption in at least two of the bands of two absorption bands from a portion of the range of 800-2500 nm; in particular 1100-2500 nm which are used to quantify the biodiesel content. b) taking each of the absorbances measured, or a mathematical function thereof, c) performing at least one mathematical computing or statistical treatment using the above absorbances or functions as individual independent variables, d) assigning and applying weighting constants or their equivalents to the independent variables, and, optionally e) applying the above steps using known compositions to calibrate the instrument and determine the weighting constants or equivalents, and further optionally f) outputting a signal indicative of the biodiesel concentration in the mixture, based on the absorbances or functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: Marathon Ashland Petroleum LLC
    Inventors: William T. Welch, Roy R. Bledsoe, Jr., Brian K. Wilt
  • Patent number: 7393450
    Abstract: A system automatically maintains at least one of a pH level and a sanitizing agent level of water in a water feature. The system includes a sensor assembly responsive to at least one of a pH level of the water and a sanitizing agent level of the water. The system further includes a controller which generates control signals in response to signals from the sensor assembly. The system further includes at least one of a first source containing an sanitizing agent material and a second source containing a pH-modifying material. The system further includes a third source comprising a valve assembly and a third container containing a liquid calibrant material. The valve assembly is responsive to at least a portion of the control signals from the controller by selectively allowing the calibrant material to flow from the third container through the sensor assembly to the water feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Inventor: Michael A. Silveri
  • Patent number: 7360550
    Abstract: A system for recycling spent sulfuric acid, wherein spent sulfuric acid is effectively utilized at a place other than a discharge source regardless of geographical conditions, and a method for recycling waste sulfuric acid. In the system, when spent sulfuric acid that is discharged or collected at a discharge source is transported by a carrier unit and used at a user office a concentration of the spent sulfuric acid is measured and/or adjusted at least at one of the discharge source, the carrier unit, and the user office. The spent sulfuric acid waste liquid that is discharged or collected at the discharge source is reutilized by being mixed with at least one of a hydrogen peroxide solution and water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventor: Yasuhito Inagaki
  • Patent number: 7344297
    Abstract: The invention is a method and apparatus for asynchronous blending and supply of chemical solutions. The method of the present invention includes a continuous blending system. This continuous blending system monitors the output and continuously adjusts the blending system to achieve a predetermined formulation of at least a first solution. A centralized monitoring system continuously evaluates the solutions and adjusts the output of the blender as needed to maintain the predetermined formulation of the solution. The system includes at least a first tank system. Any solutions that are delivered from this tank system are also continuously monitored, evaluated, and adjusted as needed by the centralized monitoring system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: Air Liquide Electronics U.S. LP
    Inventor: Karl J. Urquhart
  • Patent number: 7325560
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for delivery of dilute active fluid, e.g., to a downstream active fluid-consuming process unit of a semiconductor manufacturing plant. The delivery system includes an active fluid source, a diluent fluid source, a fluid flow metering device for dispensing of the active fluid at a predetermined flow rate, a mixer arranged to mix active gas from the active fluid source that is dispensed at such predetermined flow rate by the fluid flow metering device, with diluent fluid to form a diluted active fluid mixture, and a monitor arranged to measure concentration of active fluid in the diluted active fluid mixture, and responsively adjust the fluid flow metering device, to control the dispensing rate of the active fluid, and maintain a predetermined concentration of active fluid in the diluted active fluid mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Jose I. Arno, James A. Dietz
  • Patent number: 7246631
    Abstract: A system for measuring a mixture ratio associated with a two-part fluid, at least one of the two parts including conductive particles. The system includes a pair of electrodes, a circuit, and an output. The electrodes are disposed on opposite sides of the two-part fluid and sense the dielectric strength of the fluid. The circuit communicates with the electrodes to sense the dielectric strength and outputs a signal representing the dielectric strength. Preferably, the circuit includes a capacitive bridge, an input for a set-point, and an output for an error signal. Also, the system can include a housing for the electrodes. A timer may also be provided to measure the time elapsed from the beginning of the mixing of the two-part fluid. Preferably, the two-part fluid is an adhesive with aluminum particles that is made from a resin and a hardener. Methods of producing two-part fluids are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Gary E. Georgeson, Charles M. Richards, Richard H. Bossi
  • Patent number: 7201179
    Abstract: A modular fluid supply system for use with a liquid supply source includes a plurality of container packs, a fluid delivery line in fluid communication with the containers of the packs, and a controller. Each container pack includes at least one container that contains a fluid mixture of at least two different fluid components. The fluid delivery line is configured to deliver fluid mixtures from the containers to a tool that utilizes the fluid mixtures, and the controller is configured to selectively and automatically control the flow of the fluid mixture from each container pack to the tool. The modular fluid system can be integrated with a main fluid supply system or independently implemented for continuous and reliable supply of mixed fluids to a particular application, such as off-shore pipeline welding operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Assignee: Air Liquide Industrial U.S. LP
    Inventors: Jeremy Barr, Fred Schweighardt
  • Patent number: 7144552
    Abstract: A chemical solution preparation apparatus for preparing a chemical solution from chemical gas of an industrial chemical grade. A dissolution unit dissolves the chemical gas in pure water, which is contained in a tank. A gas discharge control unit controls the amount of chemical gas discharged from the dissolution unit. A liquid discharge discharges a predetermined amount of the chemical solution from the tank. At least one of the gas discharge control unit and the liquid discharge control unit are operated at substantially the same time as the dissolution unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Masataka Fukuizumi, Toru Matoba, Hiroshi Osuda
  • Patent number: 7063097
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for delivery of dilute active fluid, e.g., to a downstream active fluid-consuming process unit of a semiconductor manufacturing plant. The delivery system includes an active fluid source, a diluent fluid source, a fluid flow metering device for dispensing of the active fluid at a predetermined flow rate, a mixer arranged to mix active gas from the active fluid source that is dispensed at such predetermined flow rate by the fluid flow metering device, with diluent fluid to form a diluted active fluid mixture, and a monitor arranged to measure concentration of active fluid in the diluted active fluid mixture, and responsively adjust the fluid flow metering device, to control the dispensing rate of the active fluid, and maintain a predetermined concentration of active fluid in the diluted active fluid mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Jose I. Arno, James A. Dietz
  • Patent number: 6966326
    Abstract: This invention is to a method and system for controlling withdrawal of liquid from pipelines. The system includes intercommunicating analyzers, control applications and controllers for analyzing and controlling flow of a liquid from a pipeline system. Pipeline systems with which this invention can be used include any type of pipeline system capable of transporting and distributing liquid fluids, particularly hydrocarbon liquids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: ExxonMobile Research and Engineering Company
    Inventors: Jack B. Murray, Rodney V. Kastrup, James M. Brown
  • Patent number: 6953044
    Abstract: A drained water recovery system of a process device and recovering method thereof is provided. The recovering method includes using a conductivity meter to measure the conductivity of the drained water so that the drained water with different degrees of conductivity are channeled to different pipelines. Furthermore, another conductivity meter and a total organic carbon analyzer together with an interim tank liquid level controller sorts out the recovered water. Thereafter, according to the properties of the recovered water, the drained water is re-used to improve recycling efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: Powerchip Semiconductor Corp.
    Inventors: Cheng-Chung Huang, Kun-Sen Sung
  • Publication number: 20040261844
    Abstract: A drained water recovery system of a process device and recovering method thereof is provided. The recovering method includes using a conductivity meter to measure the conductivity of the drained water so that the drained water with different degrees of conductivity are channeled to different pipelines. Furthermore, another conductivity meter and a total organic carbon analyzer together with an interim tank liquid level controller sorts out the recovered water. Thereafter, according to the properties of the recovered water, the drained water is re-used to improve recycling efficiency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Chen-Chung Huang, Kun-San Sung
  • Publication number: 20040250850
    Abstract: This invention is to a method and system for controlling withdrawal of liquid from pipelines. The system includes intercommunicating analyzers, control applications and controllers for analyzing and controlling flow of a liquid from a pipeline system. Pipeline systems with which this invention can be used include any type of pipeline system capable of transporting and distributing liquid fluids, particularly hydrocarbon liquids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Publication date: December 16, 2004
    Inventors: Jack B. Murray, Rodney V. Kastrup, James M. Brown
  • Publication number: 20040211464
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system for recycling spent sulfuric acid, which aims at providing an industrially advantageous system featuring that spent sulfuric acid is effectively utilized at a place other than a discharge source regardless of geographical conditions, and also provides a method for recycling waste sulfuric acid, and recycled sulfuric acid. In the system, when spent sulfuric acid discharged or collected at a discharge source A is transported by a carrier unit B, and used at a user office C, a concentration of the spent sulfuric acid is measured and/or adjusted at least at one of the discharge source A, the carrier unit B, and the user office C. The spent sulfuric acid waste liquid discharged or collected at the discharge source A is reutilized by being mixed with at least one of a hydrogen peroxide solution and water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2004
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventor: Yasuhito Inagaki
  • Patent number: 6766818
    Abstract: A system and method for ensuring constant concentration ratios in multi-fluid mixtures used in wafer processing steps. In one aspect the invention is a method for supplying a multi-fluid mixture to a process tank comprising: transporting a first fluid through a first supply line having means to control mass flow rate of the first fluid; transporting a second fluid through a second supply line having means to control mass flow rate of the second fluid; converging the first and second fluids to form a multi-fluid mixture; repetitively measuring the concentration levels of the first and second fluids in the multi-fluid mixture with a sensor; and upon the sensor detecting undesirable concentration levels of either the first or second fluid in the multi-fluid mixture, automatically adjusting the mass flow rate of at least one of the first and second fluids to achieve desired concentration levels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Assignee: Akrion, LLC
    Inventors: Ismail Kashkoush, Richard Novak, Timothy J. Helmer
  • Patent number: 6668850
    Abstract: An apparatus for supplying oxygen includes an oxygen-rich gas supplying unit for discharging an oxygen-rich gas. The oxygen-rich gas supplying unit is provided with a first passage through which the oxygen-rich gas flows, a side surface of the first passage having an opening formed therein, a second passage through which an atmospheric air flows, one end of the second passage is attached to a periphery of the opening formed in the side surface of the first passage in such a manner that the first passage communicates with the second passage, an oxygen sensor for measuring an oxygen concentration of the oxygen-rich gas and installed in the side surface of the first passage, and a valve assembly for closing and opening the second passage and attached to the second passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: BioTel Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tai Jin Kim
  • Publication number: 20030127133
    Abstract: An apparatus for supplying oxygen includes an oxygen-rich gas supplying unit for discharging an oxygen-rich gas. The oxygen-rich gas supplying unit is provided with a first passage through which the oxygen-rich gas flows, a side surface of the first passage having an opening formed therein, a second passage through which an atmospheric air flows, one end of the second passage is attached to a periphery of the opening formed in the side surface of the first passage in such a manner that the first passage communicates with the second passage, an oxygen sensor for measuring an oxygen concentration of the oxygen-rich gas and installed in the side surface of the first passage, and a valve assembly for closing and opening the second passage and attached to the second passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2002
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Applicant: BioTel Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tai Jin Kim
  • Publication number: 20030094196
    Abstract: The present invention provides immersion chemical processing systems capable of providing a desired blend of at least two chemicals to an immersion bath as well as methods of treating substrates immersively. The system is capable of producing a blend with one or more desired properties extremely accurately due at least in part to the capability of the system to monitor at least one property of the blend or at least one parameter of the immersion process and to utilize the information gathered to provide dynamic closed-loop feedback control of one or more process parameters known to relate to the same.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2002
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Inventors: Kevin L. Siefering, Phillip Andrew Grothe, David Scott Becker
  • Patent number: 6554015
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a silver/palladium (AgPd) cell for adjusting or measuring a level of hydrogen in a high pressure environment, a high temperature environment, and/or an environment incompatible with stainless steel. The inventive cell includes a hollow diffusion tube of a AgPd alloy operably associated with a hollow connecting member and a connected tube, also operably associated with the hollow connecting member. The cell is operable in environments having a pressure of up to 3,600 p.s.i.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
    Inventor: R. Christopher Witt
  • Patent number: 6543493
    Abstract: An apparatus of measuring both concentration and amount of a liquid in a liquid chemical container is presented, comprising viewing light emanating from a first optical member that is in visual contact with the liquid, the light emanating from the optical member having a level indicating quality; and routing light from a second optical member that is in visual contact with the liquid to means for optical discrimination between liquid chemical based on different optical properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignees: L'Air Liquide - Societe'Anonyme a' Directoire et Conseil de Surveillance pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges Claude, American Air Liquide, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory M. Jursich, Kevin Sirk
  • Patent number: 6523559
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a microfluidic device and method of using the same is provided for self-regulating the flow of fluid therethrough. The microfluidic device includes a body defining first and second flow channels. The first flow channel has an input for receiving the fluid and an output. The second flow channel has an input for receiving a compensating fluid to modify the value of the property of the fluid and an output communicating with the first flow channel. A polymeric material is disposed in the first flow channel downstream of the output of the second flow channel. The polymeric material has a volume responsive to the value of the property of the fluid. A valve is disposed in the second flow channel and is movable in response to the volume of the material. The valve is movable between the first open position allowing the compensating fluid to flow past the valve into the first flow channel and a second closed position limiting the flow of compensating fluid therepast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation
    Inventors: David J. Beebe, Jeffrey S. Moore, Robin Liu, David T. Eddington
  • Publication number: 20030019520
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a microfluidic device and method of using the same is provided for self-regulating the flow of fluid therethrough. The microfluidic device includes a body defining first and second flow channels. The first flow channel has an input for receiving the fluid and an output. The second flow channel has an input for receiving a compensating fluid to modify the value of the property of the fluid and an output communicating with the first flow channel. A polymeric material is disposed in the first flow channel downstream of the output of the second flow channel. The polymeric material has a volume responsive to the value of the property of the fluid. A valve is disposed in the second flow channel and is movable in response to the volume of the material. The valve is movable between the first open position allowing the compensating fluid to flow past the valve into the first flow channel and a second closed position limiting the flow of compensating fluid therepast.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2001
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventors: David J. Beebe, Jeffrey S. Moore, Robin H. Liu, David T. Eddington
  • Patent number: 6510368
    Abstract: A process for monitoring and controlling an aqueous system. At least one performance parameter relating to conditions within the aqueous system is selected. A value of the at least one performance parameter is measured to serve as a baseline value. A capacity of the aqueous system is determined and flow rates of water into and out of the system are measured and monitored. The value of the at least one performance parameter is measured and compared the value to the baseline for the performance parameter. Flow rates of water into and out of the system are factored in. At least one controllable variable within the aqueous system is altered based upon a deviation of the value of the at least one performance parameter from the baseline value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: Ashland Inc.
    Inventors: Edward S. Beardwood, George Freedman Hays, James George Knudsen
  • Publication number: 20030000574
    Abstract: A method of regulating the calorific power of a stream of gaseous fuel of the fossil-gas type, comprising a predominant fuel gas, denoted “A” and flowing in a pipe. This regulation is performed, at least partly, by controlled addition of at least one fuel gas called having a calorific power greater than that of “A” into the stream. The subject of the invention is also its apparatus for implementation and its applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2002
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Applicant: Saint-Gobain Vitrage
    Inventors: Remy Cordier, Thierry Ferlin, Guy Tackels, Thierry Mine
  • Patent number: 6482325
    Abstract: Abrasive components and clear fluids are separated from an aqueous chemical mechanical slurry used for planarization of semiconductor materials, to permit the reuse of the clear liquid effluent in non-process applications as well as for gray water for irrigation, process cooling water, or as make-up water for a reverse osmosis system, or safe disposal in the industrial waste stream, as desired. A solids detection device determines the concentration of abrasive solids in the aqueous waste effluent stream, and a diverter valve receives and diverts the entire aqueous waste effluent stream to at least one reuse water collection tank when the abrasive solids concentration is below a desired threshold, and diverts the entire aqueous waste effluent stream to at least one concentrate water collection tank when the abrasive solids concentration is greater than or equal to the threshold. With the additional use of ion exchange, the resulting water stream can be reused in high purity water applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Linica Group, Ltd.
    Inventors: Gary L. Corlett, Edward T. Ferri, Jr., J. Tobin Geatz
  • Patent number: 6474354
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining and controlling a property of colloidal substances that undergo at least one of a temperature dependent phase transition and a temperature dependent adsorption-desorption process is disclosed. The colloidal particles are characterized by performing successive measurements of light attenuation or emission by a colloidal mixture at two or more temperatures and at one or more wavelength. The difference or ratio of the measurements at two or more temperatures provides a measure of the colloidal stability with respect to temperature. The amount of certain organic colloids that are unstable to temperature variation may be determined from the magnitude of the measurement change. This method may be specifically applied to determining the tackiness and propensity to deposit of colloidal pitch or wood resin in pulp or paper process water as an indication of the effectiveness of a chemical control program.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Assignee: Alberta Research Council Inc.
    Inventors: Theodore M. Garver, Kenneth Boegh, Yuan Hongqi
  • Patent number: 6471845
    Abstract: A method for controlling the composition of a chemical bath in which predictive dosing is used to account for changes in the composition of the bath in which the operating characteristics of the process are partitioned into a plurality of operating modes and the consumption or generation of materials related to the process are determined empirically and additions of material are made as appropriate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignees: International Business Machines Corporation, Novellus Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: John O. Dukovic, William E. Corbin, Jr., Erick G. Walton, Peter S. Locke, Panayotis C. Andricacos, James E. Fluegel, Evan Patton, Jonathan Reid
  • Publication number: 20020144727
    Abstract: A system and method for ensuring constant concentration ratios in multi-fluid mixtures used in wafer processing steps. In one aspect the invention is a method for supplying a multi-fluid mixture to a process tank comprising: transporting a first fluid through a first supply line having means to control mass flow rate of the first fluid; transporting a second fluid through a second supply line having means to control mass flow rate of the second fluid; converging the first and second fluids to form a multi-fluid mixture; repetitively measuring the concentration levels of the first and second fluids in the multi-fluid mixture with a sensor; and upon the sensor detecting undesirable concentration levels of either the first or second fluid in the multi-fluid mixture, automatically adjusting the mass flow rate of at least one of the first and second fluids to achieve desired concentration levels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2002
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventors: Ismail Kashkoush, Richard Novak, Timothy J. Helmer
  • Patent number: 6453927
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for continuously dispensing precise quantities of a liquid from a dispenser holding tank into a receiving tank. A first elastic tube permits fluid flow between the holding tank and the receiving tank and a first peristaltic pump controls the flow rate of liquid through the first elastic tube. A second elastic tube permits fluid flow between the holding tank and the receiving tank and a second peristaltic pump controls the flow rate of liquid through the second elastic tube. The flow rates through the first and second elastic tubes are independently controlled. The flow rate through the first elastic tube is maintained generally constant and at a substantially greater rate than the flow rate of the second elastic tube. The flow rate in the second elastic tube is varied to maintain a desired total flow rate into the receiving tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: International Paper Company
    Inventors: Jason W. Peterson, F. John Mara
  • Patent number: 6435203
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus and method for regenerating an etchant solution comprising metal compounds. When a sample of the etchant solution is determined to be of lower etching ability than a predetermined criteria as a result of the monitoring and analyzing three colors(red, green, and blue) of the etchant with color sensors in association with a microprocessor, the etchant solution is reoxidized by the addition of a suitable additive solution. The apparatus and method can regenerate spent etchant solutions containing heavy metals in a semi-permanent manner within the module device without wasting a portion of them, so that, in addition to producing no pollution of the environment, it is economically very favorable with an increase in overall etching efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: HWA Baek Engineering Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kang Lee
  • Patent number: 6418958
    Abstract: A solid chemical feed system, preferably including two feed bowls, comprises a quantity of solid chemicals that dissolve upon immersion in water to form a liquid solution. A sump is provided to receive liquid solution from the feed bowls, the liquid solution with additive chemicals being used as a treatment for cooling towers, boilers, or other industrial processes to inhibit corrosion and rust. The feed system comprises a valve system that is controlled by a sensor that detects the conductivity of the liquid solution to alternatingly switch the introduction of liquid solution from one feed bowl to the other feed bowl. As such, upon depletion of chemical feed in one bowl, desired treatment will continue and the empty bowl may be replaced without disruption of liquid solution supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Assignee: BetzDearborn, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony M. Rossi, Kenneth C. Barrett
  • Patent number: 6374845
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method of automatically sensing and controlling beverage quality for soft drinks from a fountain dispenser, for example, comprising the steps of supplying a first fluid, such as water or carbonated water, wherein the flow of the first fluid is controlled by a first valve, supplying a second fluid, mixing the first fluid and the second fluid, passing a sample of the mixture of the first fluid and the second fluid onto a sensing surface of a fixed optic sensor, measuring one or more properties of the sample, such as, for example, refractive index, temperature, and pressure, controlling the first valve based on the one or more properties, and dispensing the mixture. The first valve may be proportionally enlarged and reduced or it may selectively opened and closed pursuant to a desired duty cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventors: Jose L. Melendez, Richard A. Carr, Jerome L. Elkind
  • Publication number: 20020011266
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining and controlling a property of colloidal substances that undergo at least one of a temperature dependent phase transition and a temperature dependent adsorption-desorption process is disclosed. The colloidal particles are characterized by performing successive measurements of light attenuation or emission by a colloidal mixture at two or more temperatures and at one or more wavelength. The difference or ratio of the measurements at two or more temperatures provides a measure of the colloidal stability with respect to temperature. The amount of certain organic colloids that are unstable to temperature variation may be determined from the magnitude of the measurement change. This method may be specifically applied to determining the tackiness and propensity to deposit of colloidal pitch or wood resin in pulp or paper process water as an indication of the effectiveness of a chemical control program.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2001
    Publication date: January 31, 2002
    Inventors: Theodore M. Garver, Kenneth Boegh, Yuan Hongqi
  • Publication number: 20010032668
    Abstract: Provided are apparatuses and methods for mixing gases. The apparatuses are suitable for use in the manufacture of an electronic device. The apparatuses include a gas mixing manifold. A first, bulk gas source is connected to introduce a flow of a first gas to the manifold. A second gas source is connected to introduce a flow of a second gas to the manifold. The first and second gases are mixed in the manifold, thereby forming a gas mixture. A conduit is connected to one or more point of use for introducing a flow of the gas mixture thereto. The present invention is particularly applicable in the semiconductor manufacturing industry.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Publication date: October 25, 2001
    Inventors: Dean L. Doty, Yan Xu, Stephen Chesters, Ben R. Hall, Roger Q. Petton, Thomas P. Ross, Charles A. White, Reginald Wynne
  • Patent number: 6253780
    Abstract: A method for preparing a welding fluid consisting of a mixture of at least two components. The method including the steps of withdrawing the mixture components from respective tanks and feeding them into a mixing zone at substantially identical pressures, monitoring the composition of the mixture formed, and if the composition is correct, feeding the mixture into a buffer tank to be stored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: Air Liquide Italia, S.R.L.
    Inventors: Marco Salvoni, Giorgio Cuccoli, Roberto Remelli, Dante Di Lauro
  • Patent number: 6245224
    Abstract: A water quality management system for managing the water quality in a water supply network having water pipe lines running from the purification plant to consumers' faucets to maintain the water quality at the consumers at the terminals of the network at an appropriate level. The water quality monitors for measuring the quality of water in the pipe lines are installed in the small-pipe water distribution network branching from the water distribution main pipe network and running toward the consumers. The water distribution facility for improving the water quality is installed at the base point of the small-pipe water distribution network. The water quality in the small-pipe water distribution network is managed based on the signals from the water quality monitors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hideo Enoki, Sadao Mori, Masao Fukunaga, Tamio Ishihara
  • Patent number: 6220267
    Abstract: A device for introducing a first fluid into a second fluid stream comprising an enclosure and a member which causes release of a first fluid. The enclosure releasably retains the first fluid. The release causing member causes the release of the first fluid from the enclosure into the second fluid stream upon detection of a predetermined condition associated with the second fluid stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: Ceramatec, Inc.
    Inventor: Ashok V. Joshi
  • Patent number: 6148839
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for injecting a liquid product or chemical into a main water supply line used for agricultural or industrial purposes. A pressure regulating bypass valve has an inlet side connected to an outlet line of a multi-ganged, diaphragm pump. The pump is run at a constant speed and produces a non-pulsatile flow of product. The bypass line of the valve is connected to an inlet line of the pump. The bypass valve is set at a predetermined pressure, discharging any excess product into the bypass line. The product line at the outlet side of the bypass valve progresses in serial fashion to an electronic control valve, a product flow meter, and a check valve. The output side of the check valve is interconnected to the main water supply line for injection of product therein. A water flow meter is also provided in the main water supply line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Injection Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald James Gonske
  • Patent number: 6129104
    Abstract: A method for controlling the addition of liquid treatment chemicals by automatic dose control. The calculation of the amount of chemical to be dosed into the system combines signals from a liquid flow meter, an influent chemical concentration analyzer and/or an effluent chemical concentration analyzer. The signals are directed to a computerized chemical dose controller that analyzes and adjusts the data from the signals and generates an output signal that controls the chemical dosing mechanisms. For example, the automatic dose control method encompasses the ability to set maximum positive and negative limits of control action as well as the ability to automatically or manually control the reset period necessary to allow previous changes to propagate through the system and be displayed at the effluent sensor thereby improving the dosing of the chemical during treatment of a liquid, wastewater for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: Tetra Process Technologies a Severn Trent Services Company
    Inventors: Gregory A. Ellard, Joseph M. Bonazza
  • Patent number: 6077444
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a water treatment system for providing a flow of treated water having a pre-established quality, for example, a maximum TDS and permitted pH range, from a flow of reclaimed water having a quality poorer than the pre-established quality of the treated water and a flow of treatment water. The system includes a mixing reservoir; first and second fluid conduits connected to the mixing reservoir for flowing the reclaimed water and the treatment water into the reservoir; and a third fluid conduit connected to the mixing reservoir for discharging a flow of treated water from the mixing reservoir, and sensors connected for sensing the flow rates and qualities of the reclaimed water and treatment water flowed into the mixing reservoir and of the treated water discharged from the mixing reservoir. Signals, e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Inventor: Charles T. Peltzer
  • Patent number: 6068012
    Abstract: A process for monitoring and controlling an aqueous system. At least one performance parameter relating to conditions within the aqueous system is selected. A value of the at least one performance parameter is measured to serve as a baseline value. A capacity of the aqueous system is determined and flow rates of water into and out of the system are measured and monitored. The value of the at least one performance parameter is measured and compared the value to the baseline for the performance parameter. Flow rates of water into and out of the system are factored in. At least one controllable variable within the aqueous system is altered based upon a deviation of the value of the at least one performance parameter from the baseline value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Assignee: Ashland, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward S. Beardwood, George Hays, James George Knudsen
  • Patent number: 6050283
    Abstract: A system and method for mixing and/or diluting ultrapure fluids, such as liquid acids, for semiconductor processing. The system includes first and second chemical dispensers, the first and second chemical dispensers adapted to contain first and second fluids to be mixed, respectively; a process connection between the first and second chemical dispensers which allows the first and second fluids to flow therethrough and intermingle to form a mixed fluid, the process connection further allowing the mixed fluid to flow to a location needed by the operator; and an ultrasonic wave emitting device provided in a location sufficient to transmit an ultrasonic wave through the mixed fluid, the device including means to measure the velocity of the wave through the mixed fluid, and thus indirectly measure a ratio defined by a quantity of the first chemical to a quantity of the second chemical in the mixed fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Air Liquide America Corporation
    Inventors: Joe G. Hoffman, R. Scot Clark, Allen H. Jones, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6006775
    Abstract: A system and method for dispensing a fuel derived from one or more fuels having different octane ratings respectively stored in a plurality of storage tanks. The fuels are passed from their respective tanks to a mixing zone for mixing to form a blended fuel. The blended fuel is passed from the mixing zone to a dispensing nozzle while the octane rating of the blended fuel is sensed. The flow of each fuel from its tanks to the mixing zone is controlled accordingly to establish and maintain a predetermined octane rating of the blended fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: Dresser Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott Robertson Negley, III