Filter Cleaning Patents (Class 210/106)
  • Publication number: 20100101997
    Abstract: A separation apparatus using a membrane for diafiltration, which provides precise fractionation of a target substance by monitoring and regulating permeability of the target substance based on measurement values and analytical values indicating separation status, such as physical values and concentration of a permeate liquid, a circulating liquid and an internal circulating liquid in a membrane device. A diafiltration process including adding a cleaning liquid to an treating liquid which contains multiple target substances and extracting a target substance into the permeate liquid supplied from a membrane separation apparatus to fractionate the target substance from other target substances remaining in a residual liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Applicant: TSUKISHIMA KANKYO ENGINEERING LTD.
    Inventor: Yasuhiro Tateishi
  • Publication number: 20100089836
    Abstract: A regeneration circuit for the in situ regeneration of an inline adsorbent filter, said filter being part of a normal circuit that is configured to remove one or more contaminant from a fluid circulated through a machine; the regeneration circuit includes a regeneration unit configured to remove one or more contaminant from a contaminated fluid creating a regenerated fluid, such that in operation the regenerated fluid is pumped from the regeneration unit and through the filter extracting the or each contaminant from the filter creating the contaminated fluid, this contaminated fluid then returns to the regeneration unit for contaminant removal, the pressure and flow rate of the regenerated fluid through the filter are maintained at a level that ensures minimal damage to the filter; said machine is isolated from the inline filter during regeneration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2008
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Inventor: Martin Cropp
  • Publication number: 20100084348
    Abstract: A screen cleaning apparatus for use, for example, in connection with a discharge conduit of a sewage pumping station, may include a housing, a screen, a rake and a float. The housing may operate to contain a fluid (and/or define a container for the other components) and include a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The screen may be positioned in the housing and define one or more apertures. The rake may also be positioned in the housing and have one or more protrusions, with each protrusion extending into a respective aperture in the screen. The float may apply a force to the rake so that the rake moves relative to the screen and in dependence upon variations of a volume of fluid received in the housing. Accordingly, the rake may rise and fall will the fluid level to remove debris from the screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2008
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Inventor: Samuel Munn
  • Publication number: 20100051523
    Abstract: The LoweFlow Filter wastewater treatment system is a recirculating filtering system intended to treat typical residential septic tank effluent. Septic effluent is continuously (or near continuously) dosed under pressure to the treatment media through pressure compensating drip irrigation emitters. Wastewater trickles down through the media where it is attenuated through physical, chemical, and biological means. Treated wastewater or filtrate collected from the bottom of the recirculating filter returns to the recirculating tank, either by gravity flow or under pressure, through the flow splitter. During periods of low or no wastewater flow, a flow splitter will allow all of the filtrate from the treatment filter back into the recirculation tank. During periods of moderate or high wastewater flow, the flow splitter will allow all or a portion of the filtrate to be diverted for final disposal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventors: David Mark Lowe, Richard D. Eldredge
  • Patent number: 7662278
    Abstract: A self-cleaning assembly comprising an enclosed casing 1 with a movable piston 31 and filters 32,33 therein. The preferred assembly has a casing 1 with a dirty water inlet 5, a first outlet 6 for clean filtered water and a second outlet 7 for the removal of sludge from the casing. The filter assembly is constructed and arranged to provide, in its normal operating mode, a liquid flow path through the filter 32,33 in a first direction between the dirty water inlet 5 and the clean water outlet 6 and, in a cleaning mode, to provide a liquid flow path in a second direction between the dirty water inlet 5 and the sludge outlet 7. In the cleaning mode, the movable member 31 compresses the filters 32,33 during the liquid flow in the second direction and contaminant is released therefrom for removal from the filter assembly via the second outlet 7. In an alternative embodiment, the sludge outlet 7 is omitted and sludge is removed from the casing via the outlet 6.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Pet Mate Ltd.
    Inventors: Steve Martin Brooks, Robert Ivan John Wiedemann, David Goodwin
  • Publication number: 20090321334
    Abstract: A variable wash flow filter assembly includes a wash velocity control cone movable between a minimal position and a maximum position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2008
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Inventors: Kevin Gibbons, Francis P. Marocchini, Tomas R. Leutwiler
  • Patent number: 7628910
    Abstract: A control device for use with irrigation systems includes one or more of a solenoid-actuated valve, a pressure regulating valve, and a self-cleaning filter assembly. The filter assembly filters water flowing to the pressure regulating valve and the solenoid actuated valve. The filter assembly reciprocates a wiper over a filter screen to clean the screen. The wiper is on a shaft with one or more grooves that provides a pathway for unfiltered water to remove particulate matter from the filter assembly. The solenoid actuated valve controls the filter assembly and the pressure regulating valve. When the solenoid actuated valve is off, the pressure regulating valve is closed. When the solenoid actuated valve is on, water flows through the pressure regulating valve and also to a control chamber of the filter assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: Rain Bird Corporation
    Inventor: George Henry Lockwood
  • Publication number: 20090283462
    Abstract: A filter assembly is provided. Embodiments of the filter assembly allow for the continuous filtering of the frying oil, while the fryer is on-line. The filter assembly may include a dirty chamber, a clean chamber, a pump configured to suck the frying oil through the chambers, and a toggle clamp configured to move the filter assembly between a closed configuration and an opened configuration. In the opened configuration, the filter assembly is configured to seal a filter media portion between the two chambers. The pump is configured to suck oil into the dirty chamber and through the filter media and into the clean chamber in order to filter dirt from the oil. In the opened configuration, the filter assembly is configured to allow the removal of now dirty filter media portion from between the chambers and the insertion of a new clean filter media portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2009
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventor: Kurt Schroeder
  • Publication number: 20090255875
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to a fuel filter, system, and method for reduction, manipulation and/or distribution of sulfur containing compounds in a fuel stream of an internal combustion engine. In one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a method of removing sulfur containing compounds from a fuel stream of an internal combustion engine is provided. The method includes removing sulfur containing compounds from a fuel stream by passing fuel through a fuel filter capable of removing sulfur containing compounds. The method also includes storing the sulfur containing compounds in the fuel filter and releasing portions of the stored sulfur containing compounds into the fuel stream at predetermined intervals of a regeneration cycle of an emission control device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2009
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventors: Peter D. Unger, Ronald P. Rohrbach, Daniel E. Bause, Scott J. Tabb
  • Patent number: 7560021
    Abstract: A selector valve of a pressure filter for aquariums or ponds comprises a valve body having a main liquid inlet opening (16), a secondary inlet opening (17), an outlet opening (18) and a discharge opening (19), a cursor (20) housed in the valve body (12), having a passage for the liquid (21) and being selectively moveable between a first position, corresponding to the filtration mode of the filter (11), wherein the main liquid inlet opening (16) is placed in fluid communication with the outlet opening (18), and a second position, corresponding to the washing mode, wherein the secondary inlet opening (17) is in fluid communication with the discharge opening (19), and a safety valve (36) included in the cursor (20) to protect the pressure filter in case of superpressure of the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Askoll Holding S.r.l.
    Inventor: Elio Marioni
  • Publication number: 20090071901
    Abstract: In one aspect, the invention is directed to methods and systems for filtering water using membranes. The methods and systems provide for controlling water levels in a tank with membranes immersed therein to control any of various conditions in the tank, such as the gas flow from aerators in the tank, the level of circulation of water in the tank, and the residence time of bubbles in the tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Inventor: Hamid R. Rabie
  • Publication number: 20090045143
    Abstract: A gravel vacuum including a suction tube, a pre-filter tower connected to the suction tube, a filter tower, a return assembly, a pump, and an alternate flow path with a flow control valve. When the suction tube is placed on gravel under water, the pump impels a flow of water and gravel into the suction tube, impels the flow of water and at most a portion of the gravel into the pre-filter tower where the portion of gravel is pre-filtered from the flow of water, impels the flow of water into the filter tower where the water is filtered, and impels the flow of water to the return assembly. The flow control valve controls a flow of water that bypasses the pump, thereby permitting adjustment of the flow of water and gravel impelled into the suction tube. A second flow control valve can be located near the suction tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Fred Getsinger
  • Publication number: 20090032448
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for separating solids from a liquid, comprising at least one reservoir or basin (12) for receiving solid-loaded liquid and having at least one inflow (1, 27, 101) and/or outflow (2, 111); and at least one separation device (9, 16, 25, 55, 56, 62, 63, 108) arranged in the reservoir or basin (12) for the solids, wherein the separation device has at least one separation surface, which is at least adjustable between a separation position (?) and a cleaning position (?). According to the invention, the apparatus comprises a control device (57, 58; 64, 66; 106) coupled or connected to the separation device (9, 16, 25, 55, 56, 62, 63, 108) and being operable by the liquid supplied into the reservoir or the basin (12), by means of which the position of the at least one separation surface can be changed or varied. Further a separation device (9) having at least one separation surface is provided, which comprises a surface coating and/or an at least partially structured surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2006
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventor: Frank R. Kolb
  • Publication number: 20090009575
    Abstract: There is provided a filter having a plate-like shape in which a plurality of holes through which fluid passes is opened. A low opening region in which an aperture ratio of the holes per unit area is low and a high opening region in which an aperture ratio of the holes per unit area is high are formed in the filter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2008
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Applicant: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shinichi TONAMI, Satoshi MATSUURA, Narimitsu SAITO
  • Publication number: 20080290047
    Abstract: A method and filter element for filtering flowable material. The filter element includes a top plate, a bottom plate, and a middle plate sandwiched therebetween. The top plate includes a first outlet to receive unfiltered material. The middle plate is interposed between the top plate and bottom plate and supports a meshed surface in order to strain oversized particles therefrom. The filter element is designed such that the axial length between the first outlet of the top plate and the middle plate is less than the axial length between the middle plate and the second outlet. The filter member of the middle plate is disposed in a direction perpendicular to the flow of material passing through the first outlet such that the approximate entire surface of the middle plate is used in the filtering process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2008
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Inventors: Randolph W. Zahn, Michelle M. Hibdon, H. Thomas Miller
  • Publication number: 20080272065
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a method and apparatus for separating particles and dissolved matter from an untreated fluid stream. Specifically, the present invention includes a first pressure source which transports untreated fluid or contaminated aqueous fluid into a separator annulus with a filter element disposed therein. The untreated fluid is placed under appropriate pressure sufficient to produce turbulent flow, increased particle kinetics and/or cavitation allowing the desired fluid to penetrate and pass into and through the filter media. The treated fluid is then transported to a collection tank. The contaminant matter retained by the filter media may be removed by the nearly instantaneous reverse pressurization of the separator annulus by a second pressure source thereby removing the contaminant particles away from contact with the filter media, and which may then be transported to a waste collection tank or a separator for further treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2008
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventor: Raymond Ford Johnson
  • Patent number: 7404904
    Abstract: There is a method of capturing, removing or collecting the particulate matter from a fluid containing a toxic liquid reaction and particulate matter produced from the reaction. The method includes partly or completely disposing a screen into the toxic fluid. Mixing the toxic fluid allowing the particulate matter to contact the screen. Moving the screen to capture the particulate matter on the screen. Removing the particulate matter from the screen by washing or scraping. There is also a cleaning apparatus to capture, remove or collect particulate matter from a toxic fluid. A cleaning apparatus contains at least a screen and a structure securing the screen. The cleaning apparatus can optionally include a scraping or washing means, a drive means, a flow inducer and a housing structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Inventor: Melvin Stanley
  • Publication number: 20080156709
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a method and apparatus for separating particles and dissolved matter from a produced water fluid stream. Specifically, the present invention includes a first pressure source which transports untreated produced water or contaminated aqueous fluid into a separator annulus with a filter element disposed therein. The untreated fluid is placed under appropriate pressure sufficient to produce turbulent flow, increased particle kinetics and/or cavitation allowing the desired fluid to penetrate and pass into and through the filter media. The treated fluid is then transported to a collection tank. The contaminant matter retained by the filter media may be removed by the nearly instantaneous reverse pressurization of the separator annulus by a second pressure source thereby removing the contaminant particles away from contact with the filter media, and which may then be transported to a waste collection tank or a separator for further treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2008
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Inventor: Raymond Ford Johnson
  • Patent number: 7381335
    Abstract: Method and arrangement for continuous filtering of particles out of a contaminated liquid by means of a number of separate filtering units (14) in order continuously to feed purified liquid to a consumer. Each filtering unit (14) comprises a rotatable, perforated drum (16) with a particle-catching filter means (18) on the outer surface of the drum. A first predetermined degree of coating with particles is created on the filter means of the drums, and purified liquid inside all the drums of the filtering units (14) except at least one, which is kept inactive in a standby state by shutting off the associated pump (26), is then fed to a consumer. The feed of purified liquid from a drum to the consumer is interrupted when a second predetermined, higher degree of coating with particles has been reached on the filter means on an individual drum, at least one filtering unit kept in standby state being activated as replacement for the filtering unit(s) from which the feed of purified liquid has been interrupted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Inventor: Hyosong M. Lee
  • Publication number: 20080121587
    Abstract: A fluid filter, particularly suitable for high pressure and high volume use, comprises a cylindrical housing (201) having an attachment plate (209) at an inlet end (202) to which is attached a plurality of bundles (303) of fibres (211), with the fibres being left unsecured at their distal end adjacent an outlet (203) of the housing. Between the bundles is provided a balloon (212) which can be distended in order to crush the fibres around the periphery of the housing. In use, a fluid to be filtered is introduced into the inlet end, adjacent to where the fibres are secured. In order to flush the filter the pressure within the balloon is released, and a flushing fluid is passed through the housing in the same direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Applicant: Water Maiden Limited
    Inventors: Michael John Ernest Frye, Soren Ingemann Jensen, Philip McIntyre
  • Patent number: 7374668
    Abstract: An oil/water separator tank having intake, discharge and vent fittings is conditioned for in-situ cleaning of the oil separator plate stacks positioned therein by selective opening of manual valves connected to each of such fittings. When so conditioned by opening of the manual valves, the in-situ cleaning is performed during repeated operational phases under automated control of solenoid operated and motor driven valves through which a plurality of sequential operational steps are performed, consisting of (a) low pressure air injected into an air sparging array within the separator tank, (b) supply of potable water into a mixing tank; (c) mixing of the potable water with the cleaning agent within the mixing tank; (d) introduction of the cleaning agent after the mixing thereof into the separator tank to enhance in-situ cleaning by dispersing the low pressure air from the air sparging array; and (e) drainage of collected waste oil from the separator tank into a waste oil tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Mario DiValentin, Stephan J. Verosto, Richard R. Leung, Mitchell E. Price
  • Publication number: 20080093311
    Abstract: A filter for filtering a fluid comprises an inlet end and an outlet end, a distensible member extending longitudinally of the housing, and a plurality of fibres extending longitudinally of the housing and being secured at the inlet end. When the distensible member is distended, the fibres are compressed to form a graduated filter matrix. An additional filter medium is introduced into the inlet end and becomes trapped in the fibres for further filtration of the fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: Michael John Ernest Frye, Soren Ingemann Jensen, Philip McIntyre
  • Publication number: 20080023381
    Abstract: The present application relates to a filtration system (1) having at least one flexible filter (9) and cleaning apparatus (25) for projecting a flow of fluid onto the at least one flexible filter. The fluid to be filtered passes through the at least cone flexible filter (9) and causes the at least one flexible filter (9) to be deflected in a first direction. The flow of fluid projected onto the at least one flexible filter (9) from the cleaning apparatus (25) causes the at least one flexible filter (9) to be deflected in a second direction. The first and second directions are substantially opposite to each other. The present invention further relates to a filtration system (1) for filtering particulates from a liquid. The filtration system has a sealed vessel (2) suitable for supporting a pressure less than atmospheric pressure. A filter (9) is provided for filtering particulates from the liquid. The application also relates to a method of filtering fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2004
    Publication date: January 31, 2008
    Inventors: Nicholas Jackson, Andrew Clark, Colin French
  • Patent number: 7316774
    Abstract: A reverse osmosis water filtration system has a control housing that contains control components for the filtration system. The control housing may include control components for a membrane flushing system and/or feed water pressurization system for a permeate storage tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: Kinetico Incorporated
    Inventors: Peter Halemba, George Ellis, III, Stuart Park
  • Patent number: 7303666
    Abstract: A water filtration system includes a filter for receiving water to be filtered and having an output. A water storage vessel is connected to receive water from the filter output; and water is removed from the storage vessel and supplied back to the input of the filter, whereupon filtered water to be utilized is obtained solely from the output of the filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Inventor: Charles W. Mitsis
  • Patent number: 7294274
    Abstract: A filtration system is provided with filter media operable to remove solids, particulate and colloidal matter from a process fluid. Acoustic, vibration and sonic energy may be used to clean associated filter media to allow substantially continuous filtration of process fluids. The filtration system may be satisfactorily used with process fluids having a relatively high concentrations of solids, particulate and colloidal matter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Assignee: Phase Inc.
    Inventors: Curtis Kirker, Berkeley F. Fuller
  • Patent number: 7229562
    Abstract: A filtration system comprising a filter cassette having integrated ultrasonic transducers incorporated therein, and a method for using the same. The integrated system of filters and transducers can be hardened for use in hazardous environments, and is particularly suitable for the implementation of sonication in cross flow filtration processes further integrated with a manufacturing process. The system provides cost savings both in terms of less equipment and space for cleaning processes on the manufacturing floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond K. Crandall, Kenneth Strong, Robert Meyer
  • Patent number: 7214311
    Abstract: A filter assembly is provided that includes a hood, a drain manifold, a filter disposed between the hood and the drain manifold, a drainage space that is disposed between and in fluid communication with both the filter medium and the drain manifold, a check valve that is configured to permit air to escape but not to enter the drainage space so that a siphon can be established that draws additional fluid through the filter medium and into the drain manifold, the siphon continuing until air entering the hood disrupts the siphon, and a check valve cap that is configured to permit air to escape the check valve while preserving an air-filled void above the check valve when the filter assembly is submerged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: Contech Stormwater Solutions Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel W. Aberle, James H. Lenhart, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7144500
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a system for removing waste material from a fluid flowing in a channel. This system may incorporate the use of a trap for collecting the waste material while allowing the fluid to pass; a rake for removing the waste material away from the trap; a drive assembly for moving the rake to remove the waste material; a prime mover for operating the drive assembly; and a variable speed controller configured for operating the prime mover over a variable range of speeds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Ondeo Degremont, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen M. Rybar, Roger D. Hamill
  • Patent number: 7101475
    Abstract: An autonomously navigating solar swimming pool skimmer employing a forward impeller, navigation being improved by the use of forward mounted powered horizontal bumper wheels as deflectors, combined with occasional reversals of paddlewheels and bumper wheels to clear clogs and navigate away from obstacles. Further improvements include corrosion inhibiting enclosures for motor and electronics, disposable filter media, pool intrusion alarm, an alarm to warn of debris clogs and stuck positions, floatation trim adjustments, debris backwash prevention, electronic control circuitry, intermittent operation during the night, and thrust enhancing features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Inventors: Terry Antone Maaske, Denis Louis Ruzsa
  • Patent number: 7001506
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for providing a self-cleaning water circulation system which may be utilized for a fish pond, fountain, or the like. Means for automatically cleaning the pump intake to avoid pump failure due to leaves and debris is provided. The circulation system also comprises a self-cleaning filter for cleaning the circulated water whereby maintenance requirements are substantially reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Inventor: Ronald L. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6984313
    Abstract: An automatic water filtration and purification system will allow a continuous water flow to downstream fixtures while simultaneously and automatically regularly flushing and cleaning in-path filter media. The automatic water filtration and purification system has at least one filter to remove impurities from a water in-path through-put. A cleaner is coupled to the at least one filter to clean the at least one filter. A controller is coupled to the at least one filter to regulate automatic operation of the cleaner wherein continuous operation of water flow to fixtures downstream of the at least one filter is essentially uninterrupted during the operation of the cleaner and the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Inventor: Farvell M. Mark
  • Patent number: 6899807
    Abstract: A solid and liquid separation device, comprising: a housing, the housing having an inlet, a solid outlet and a liquid outlet, the liquid outlet located in a lower portion of the housing; a screen located within the housing, the screen positioned above the liquid outlet at an inclined angle, wherein a lower end of the screen is directly below the inlet; a conveying assembly, mounted in the housing located above the screen, and including two rotation shafts co-operating with two drive members, a plurality of connecting rods mounted between the two drive chains, each drive chain comprising at least one longitudinally flexible link, each connecting rod including a scraper, the scraper capable of contacting the screen for driving solids toward an upper end of the screen; and, a squeeze assembly, including a cylinder for supporting solids falling from the upper end of the screen, the cylinder provided with a threaded rod that is configured to be driven to rotate by a power member, the threaded rod capable of output
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Inventor: Sophia Cummings
  • Patent number: 6878294
    Abstract: A spiral wound membrane element allowing back wash reverse filtration at 0.05 MPa to 0.3 MPa is employed for a spiral wound membrane module. Air injection of injecting air of not more than 0.3 MPa into a permeate outlet of the spiral wound membrane module from a pressurized air feeder through a pipe, back wash reverse filtration with permeate and flushing with raw water are performed as recovery of a filtration velocity. Another spiral wound membrane module comprises a spiral wound membrane element including a separation membrane having high back pressure strength. Raw water into which bubbles are diffused by an air diffuser is fed to the spiral wound membrane element stored in a pressure vessel. Part of the raw water is axially fed through the spiral wound membrane element, discharged from a raw water outlet of the pressure vessel and thereafter returned to a raw water tank through a pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: Nitto Denko Corporation
    Inventors: Masaaki Ando, Katsumi Ishii, Satoru Ishihara
  • Publication number: 20040262203
    Abstract: A dialysis device 1 includes a water supply passage 15 for supplying clean water to solution supply chambers 35a and 35b, and a waste solution passage 17 for discharging a used dialysis solution from solution collection chambers 34a and 34b, and the water supply passage includes a concentrate solution pump 21 that supplies a dialysis concentrate solution from a concentrate solution supply source 19.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Takayuki Nishimura, Yoichi Itoh
  • Patent number: 6830679
    Abstract: A filtration device is provided in which wastewater, in the form of a colloidal solution containing microparticles, is guided to tank, circulated, and filtrated using a second filter. The device includes a gel film that is formed by suction on the surface of a first filter. The suction pressure in this process is made extremely weak to maintain the filtration capacity while extending intervals prior to clogging of second filter 2. Furthermore, a filtration device is realized with which the gel film of second filter that becomes adsorbed onto the surface of first filter can be separated readily by stopping the suction and filtration can be continued again thereafter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Motoyuki Tsuihiji, Hirofumi Iinuma, Hiroyuki Umezawa, Masahiro Iseki
  • Patent number: 6814864
    Abstract: An extra-corporeal blood purification device includes a blood filter, and elements for measuring at least one parameter affected by filter resistance to liquid flow, elements for determining at least a threshold value of the parameter, elements for comparing the parameter with the threshold value, exchange control elements for calculating the distribution between the respective flow rates through connecting ducts, capable of reducing the difference between the value of the measured parameter and the threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Assignee: Infomed SA
    Inventors: Olivier Favre, Francesco Di Lella
  • Publication number: 20040188332
    Abstract: A self-cleaning/self-purging ceramic, telflon-copolymer composite filter capable of continuous and/or intermittent cleaning and suitable for installation within a reaction or precipitation vessel. The filter can be cleaned either continuously or intermittently by ultra sound vibration and/or backpressure within the filter system. This invention is appropriate for use in industrial, pharmaceutical, commercial and municipal processing and/or wastewater treatment applications where the removal of undesired contaminants is desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2003
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Applicant: Haydock Intellectual Properties, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Frederick J. Haydock
  • Patent number: 6797158
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for acoustically enhanced particle separation uses a chamber through which flows a fluid containing particles to be separated. A porous medium is disposed within the chamber. A transducer mounted on one wall of the chamber is powered to impose on the porous medium an acoustic field that is resonant to the chamber when filled with the fluid. Under the influence of the resonant acoustic field, the porous medium is able to trap particles substantially smaller than the average pore size of the medium. When the acoustic field is deactivated, the flowing fluid flushes the trapped particles from the porous medium and regenerates the medium. A collection circuit for harvesting the particles flushed from the porous medium is disclosed. Aluminum mesh, polyester foam, and unconsolidated glass beads are disclosed as porous media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Case Western Reserve University
    Inventors: Donald L. Feke, Sanjay Gupta, Zenon Mandralis
  • Patent number: 6773588
    Abstract: A system (11) for providing purified water comprises a plurality of individual modules, each of which includes a separable head (13) and a canister (17), which modules are joined one to another via these heads to create a composite manifold (15). The heads and canisters are respectively of substantially identical construction, and the hollow canisters include the following units: preheater, prefilter (25), pump (27), membrane purification (29), postfilter (31), and UV treatment. The overall system is monitored by a control unit (131) that is regularly interrogated by an off-site, headquarters computer, and both the control unit (131) and the headquarters computer are proactive in detecting potential difficulties that may be able to be readily remedied by promptly dispatching a serviceperson with a replacement for the canister containing the operating unit that requires replacement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: The Water System Group, Incorporated
    Inventors: David R. Beeman, Martin C. Swanson, Doug Horn
  • Publication number: 20040112806
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for providing a self-cleaning water circulation system which may be utilized for a fish pond, fountain, or the like. Means for automatically cleaning the pump intake to avoid pump failure due to leaves and debris is provided. The circulation system also comprises a self-cleaning filter for cleaning the circulated water whereby maintenance requirements are substantially reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2003
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventor: Ronald L. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20040104152
    Abstract: A filter is provided within a case. A to-be-filtered fluid flowing into the case is passed through a peripheral wall of the filter. Thereby, foreign matter included in the to-be-filtered fluid is captured by filtration. A cleaning member is provided within the case. The cleaning member pressurizes the to-be-filtered fluid by a pressure fluid, and causes the pressurized to-be-filtered fluid to pass through the peripheral wall of the filter in a direction reverse to a direction in which the to-be-filtered fluid is filtered. When foreign matter captured in the filter is to be removed and cleaned, the to-be-filtered fluid remaining in the case is pressurized by the cleaning member and caused to flow in a direction reverse to a direction in which the to-be-filtered fluid is filtered. Thereby, foreign matter captured by the peripheral wall of the filter is removed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2003
    Publication date: June 3, 2004
    Applicant: TAISEI KOGYO CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Umio Mukai
  • Publication number: 20040094459
    Abstract: A liquid filter (10) housing an annular filter element (16) has an annular space or inlet chamber (24) between the filter element and the housing and viewable through the housing such that an operator can see the level of liquid in the inlet chamber as an indication of when to replace the filter element, the higher the level of liquid in the inlet chamber the greater the pressure drop across the filter element. A change interval plugging indicator (102), preferably part of the filter element, is provided by a gas trap and pressure responsive release mechanism (104) trapping gas in the upper section (23) of the inlet chamber until a designated release pressure is reached, corresponding to a desired terminal pressure, to prevent premature plugging indication otherwise indicated by rising liquid level in the inlet chamber. Accurate and reliable calibration is enabled by separating the filtration function and the plugging indication function.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2003
    Publication date: May 20, 2004
    Inventors: Ted Franklin Prater, Zemin Jiang, John Scheuren, John W. Clevenger, Barry M. Verdegan
  • Publication number: 20040020832
    Abstract: A sand control screen assembly (200) positionable within a production interval of a wellbore that traverses a subterranean hydrocarbon bearing formation comprises a base pipe (202) having openings (204) in a sidewall section thereof that allow fluid flow therethrough. A filter medium (210) is positioned about the exterior of at least a portion of the base pipe (202). The filter medium (210) selectively allows fluid flow therethrough but prevents the flow of particulate of a predetermined size therethrough. A seal member (218, 220, 222) is operably associated with the base pipe (202). The seal member (218, 220, 222) has a one-way valve configuration and a valve open configuration such that the seal member (218, 220, 222) controls fluid flow through the openings (204) of the base pipe (202).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventors: William Mark Richards, Travis T. Hailey, Thomas O. Roane, Ralph H. Echols
  • Patent number: 6649048
    Abstract: A filter assembly that filters water, particularly stormwater, that includes flow regulating, siphon inducing, and surface cleaning features that allow the filter assembly to operate at the design filtration rate for an extended period of time. During filtration, water flows inward through an annular filter medium into a drain manifold. The rate of flow into the drain manifold is controlled by a float valve assembly. A check valve permits air to escape, but not enter, the filter assembly creating a siphon effect when the rate of flow into the drain manifold is increased. The siphon effect draws water through the entire filtration surface and the entire volume of the filter medium. When the external water level decreases to the level of an array of voids in the filter assembly enclosure, the siphon is interrupted by turbulent air streams entering the filter assembly, agitating the filter surface and dislodging particulate matter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Stormwater Management
    Inventors: Scott A. de Ridder, James H. Lenhart, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20030089647
    Abstract: A filtration device is provided in which wastewater, in the form of a colloidal solution containing microparticles, is guided to tank, circulated, and filtrated using a second filter. The device includes a gel film that is formed by suction on the surface of a first filter. The suction pressure in this process is made extremely weak to maintain the filtration capacity while extending intervals prior to clogging of second filter 2. Furthermore, a filtration device is realized with which the gel film of second filter that becomes adsorbed onto the surface of first filter can be separated readily by stopping the suction and filtration can be continued again thereafter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventors: Motoyuki Tsuihiji, Hirofumi Iinuma, Hiroyuki Umezawa, Masahiro Iseki
  • Publication number: 20030010719
    Abstract: A method and device for renal replacement therapy is described that sterile-filters solution that can subsequently be used as a replacement fluid in the same unit. The devices and methods include a pump that can be reversed from its normal forward-pumping direction to sterilize a container of replacement fluid to produce sterile replacement fluid. The sterile replacement fluid is captured in a fluid bag. Upon sterilization of the contents of the container, the pump switches to run in its normal forward-pumping direction. The sterile replacement fluid produced by the previous process is now injected into a patient to perform renal replacement therapy. The waste produced during the renal replacement therapy can be trapped in the container that previously held the non-sterile solution. Systems for sterile filtration and subsequent renal replacement therapy that include pre-connected, sterilized, disposable kits for fluid management and batch collection of sterilized fluid are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2001
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Applicant: NxStage Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Brugger, Jeffrey H. Burbank, Dennis M. Treu
  • Publication number: 20020185417
    Abstract: The present invention concerns an apparatus for the depuration of drinkable water for domestic use comprising at least an active coal filter, a volumetric pump, a nanofiltration membrane and a regulation and control system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2001
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventor: Ali Jose Galindez Bastida
  • Patent number: 6468421
    Abstract: A filtering assembly for removing particles from a liquid is positioned coaxially within a vertical, pressure-tight housing 11 having a tangential inlet 21 at an upper end and an outlet 24 at a bottom end thereof. The filtering assembly includes a filter bag 13 positioned on the exterior surface of a perforated cylinder 14. Untreated liquid from the inlet is filtered as it flows radially inward through the filter assembly. A wash-down device 28 is position at an upper end of the housing for removing solids that have built up on the exterior surface of the filter bag. A controller initiates a wash-down of the filter bag upon detecting a predetermined pressure differential across the filter assembly. After closing the inlet and outlet, the controller opens a vacuum-break valve D causing the filter bag to pulse and thereby initially dislodging entrapped solid particles for easy wash-down.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Inventor: James E. Huckestein
  • Publication number: 20020144952
    Abstract: The present invention is a self-cleaning water filter and method by which sediment is flushed from a water filter, wherein the device is a flush pipe connected to a filter housing, wherein the pipe is attached to a solenoid valve and controller mechanism, generally a timer, meter or sensor. The method of the present invention provides automatically cleaning a water filter comprising the steps of attaching a flush pipe to a filter housing and attaching a solenoid valve and controller mechanism to the pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2001
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventor: Terrence Lee Saxton