Discharge Of Treated Material Patents (Class 210/109)
  • Patent number: 7476312
    Abstract: There is disclosed a water treatment appliance, particularly for on-the-counter treatment of potable water. The appliance comprises: a base unit comprising a pump, a housing and a cooling unit for chilling water in the housing; a removable water reservoir engageable with the housing; a control panel comprising a water dispensing switch; an outlet for dispensing treated water from the fluid treatment system; and a treatment cartridge removably disposed in the housing. The treatment cartridge comprises a first chamber and a second chamber in communication with one another. The first chamber is in communication with the housing and has disposed therein a filter element. The second chamber is in communication with the outlet and has disposed therein an ultraviolet radiation lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Trojan Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: G. Bruce Laing, Daniel K. Engelbreth, Julian C. Giggs, F. Mark Hutchinson, Brent W. Matthews
  • Patent number: 7470371
    Abstract: A platelet collection device comprising a centrifugal spin-separator container with a cavity having a longitudinal inner surface. A float in the cavity has a base, a platelet collection surface above the base, an outer surface. The float density is below the density of erythrocytes and above the density of plasma. The platelet collection surface has a position on the float which places it below the level of platelets when the float is suspended in separated blood. During centrifugation, a layer of platelets or buffy coat collects closely adjacent the platelet collection surface. Platelets are then removed from the platelet collection surface. Movement of a float having a density greater than whole blood through the sedimenting erythrocytes releases entrapped platelets, increasing the platelet yield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Hanuman LLC
    Inventors: Randel Dorian, Scott R. King, Richard Wood Storrs
  • Publication number: 20080257802
    Abstract: An apparatus for purifying and dispensing water of a quality suitable for human consumption comprises a first reservoir for holding unfiltered water. The water moves by the force of gravity downward through a water filtering and purifying cartridge into a second lower reservoir. An electrically powered hydraulic pump and associated electrical controls and plumbing enable the pump to periodically lift water from the second reservoir to the first reservoir to permit its return through the filter thereby enhancing the purity of the water before it is dispensed. The apparatus may include first, second and third reservoirs wherein the first reservoir is nominally at the same level as the second reservoir with the unfiltered or filtered water being pumped from the first reservoir and passed through the filter into the second reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2008
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventor: DANIEL D. FRIEL,
  • Publication number: 20080245713
    Abstract: System for the recovery of washing liquids used in showers, wash basins, and/or baths, characterised in that it includes a first decantation tank (1) provided with at least one inlet (100) connected to a downflow point of washing water, a second collection tank (2), an overflow partition wall (3) adapted to separate the two tanks (1, 2), a sewer drainage (101) at the bottom of the decantation tank (1), adapted to be closed by a plug (5) that can be raised by a float (4) in the collection tank (2) according to the liquid level therein, a drawing pump (7) in the collection tank (2), controllable by a relay (6), or electrical float, indicating the liquid requirements of a fitting (103), a pipe (104) connecting the pump (7) of the collection tank with the fitting (103), the relay (6), or electric float, electrically connected with the pump (7) and a valve (8) of the fitting (103) and controlled by a float (9) in the collection tank (2) for closing the electrical power supply to the pump (7) and opening the electr
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2008
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Inventor: Settimo Martinello
  • Patent number: 7429324
    Abstract: A method for in-line preparation of liquid for an extracorporeal blood treatment apparatus that makes provision for placing a filter in correspondence with each of two successive filtration stations, for carrying out a liquid preparation cycle, for removing the filter, which operates in correspondence with a first filtration station, for placing in correspondence with the first filtration station the filter that operated in correspondence with the second filtration station, for placing a new filter in correspondence with a second filtration station and for launching a new sterile liquid preparation cycle. The invention also provides a device for implementing the described method and an apparatus for extracorporeal blood treatment, which incorporates this device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Assignee: Gambro Lundia AB
    Inventors: Jacques Chevallet, Guy Mercier, Laurent Simard
  • Publication number: 20080217222
    Abstract: A modular unit apparatus for continuous separation of suspended particles from feed solutions or fluids by a consecutive sequential process in closed circuit that comprises, a closed circuit system comprising cross flow membrane filter modules having their respective inlets and outlets connected in parallel with each said module comprising a cross flow membrane filter element within housing, a circulation system enabling recycling of the feed solution or fluid through the membrane, a conducting line system for supply of said fresh feed to the closed circuit, a conducting line system for permeate collection from the membrane modules, a conducting line system for removing concentrated suspended particles solutions or fluids from the closed circuit, two valve systems for enabling connection or disconnection of said fresh feed supply line to the closed circuit, and for enabling periodic discharge suspended solution from the closed circuit without stopping filtration, and a monitoring and control systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2006
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventor: Avi Efraty
  • Patent number: 7419591
    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: April 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: Contech Stormwater Solutions Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel W. Aberle, James H. Lenhart, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7416661
    Abstract: A mechanical vessel may effectively and simultaneously displace a first undesired gas from within water with a second desired gas, and remove at least one alkaline species and oily matter from the water. The vessel raises the pH of the water and reduces the lime requirement for subsequent lime softening. The vessel receives the water containing the first gas and passes the water through a series of gasification chambers. Each gasification chamber may have a mechanism that ingests and mixes a second gas into the water thereby physically displacing at least a portion of the first gas into a vapor space at the top of each gasification chamber from which it is subsequently removed. There is an absence of communication between the vapor spaces of adjacent chambers. An acid is added to remove the alkaline species, where the first gas is an optional by-product that is also removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: Petreco International Inc.
    Inventors: James C. T. Chen, Shaya Movafaghian
  • Patent number: 7410568
    Abstract: An apparatus for treating sludge, comprises a press for dewatering the sludge, a compaction device for receiving and compacting sludge dewatered by the press, a shredder for receiving and shredding sludge compacted by the compaction device, and a tube conveyor for conveying shredded sludge from the shredder. The press is controlled to vary the flow rate of the sludge in response to at least one sensed operational parameter of the press, such as the momentary power for operating the press, pressure in the sludge in the press, sludge concentration in the press, sludge feed flow to the press or separated water flow from the press.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: Nordic Water Products AB
    Inventor: Jesper Christopherson
  • Publication number: 20080185324
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for conveying lime slurry, removing and controlling the amount of grit, and feeding lime slurry, wherein the lime slurry moves through a recirculation loop, and wherein gravity removal of grit from the lime slurry takes place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: RDP Company
    Inventors: Paul G. Christy, Michael Quici
  • Patent number: 7407585
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a system for purifying water whereby: the water to be purified is pressurized (13); a pressurized flow of said water is directed onto at least one selective permeability membrane to divide (11) the flow of pressurized water into a permeate flow and a retentate flow; the permeate flow is electrodeionized (12) to produce a flow of purified water consisting of the electrodeionized permeate flow; the flowrate of the retentate flow (19) is reduced; a substantially constant predetermined pressure (21) is maintained on the selective permeability membrane(s); and a substantially constant predetermined permeate flowrate is maintained. It also relates to a tangential filtration module suitable for the above kind of system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Millipore Corporation
    Inventor: Yves Gaignet
  • Publication number: 20080179227
    Abstract: A bubble separator capable of performing efficient bubble separation with a compact and simple structure is provided. The bubble separator includes a centrifugal bubble separating mechanism and an auxiliary bubble separating mechanism. The centrifugal bubble separating mechanism has a first bubble separator body in which a first fluid introducing part, a first fluid discharging part, and a first gas discharging part are provided. The auxiliary bubble separating mechanism has a guiding portion, a second bubble separator body, a second fluid introducing part, a second fluid discharging part, and a second gas discharging part. According to the bubble separator of the present invention, in addition to minuscule bubbles it is also possible to separate large bubbles that could not be completely separated using the centrifugal bubble separating mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Applicant: TOYOTA BOSHOKU KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Yasuhiro SAITO
  • Publication number: 20080156710
    Abstract: Provided is a pure water producing apparatus capable of preventing fluctuations in the amount of produced pure water without requiring a heat exchanger. Raw water is filtered with an activated carbon filtration device 1, sent through a water supply pump 2 for a reverse osmosis device to the reverse osmosis device 3, and demineralized. Demineralized water output from the reverse osmosis device 3 contacts a water quality sensor 4 including a water temperature sensor 4a, is sent to an electrodeionization device 5, and subjected to electrodeionization. Water subjected to electrodeionization contacts a water quality sensor 6 having a water temperature sensor 6a, and is taken out as treated water (pure water). A sensing signal output from the water temperature sensor 4a is input to a pump control circuit 7 to control an amount of the water supplied from the pump 2 so that an amount of water passed through the reverse osmosis device is maintained constant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2006
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Applicant: KURITA WATER INDUSTRIES LTD.
    Inventors: Seiichi Onota, Masayuki Miwa
  • Patent number: 7387722
    Abstract: An automatic system for treating water, which consists of two treatment tanks adapted to be operated alternately. The tanks are interconnected with each other by a unique isolation valving system that permits one tank to be in use while the other is on standby. They are also connected to a single brine tank and alternate by being controlled with a novel, photo/electric water sensor, which reacts to a predetermined flow of water through the tanks. This system is very environmentally friendly by reducing the amount of water and salt used in the regeneration of the minerals compared with other systems operating today.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Inventors: Robert G Varner, Daniel G. Varner
  • Publication number: 20080128338
    Abstract: An adsorption apparatus and method of adsorption for treatment of wastewater is disclosed, and comprises an inlet for the wastewater connected to a metals trap which adsorbs metals and a second trap which filters organic materials from the wastewater, positioned between the inlet and the metals trap, wherein the second trap at least partially comprises either a phosphate or an activated carbon. The metals trap can be, for example, fish bone char. A method of manufacturing fish bone char is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Inventor: Geary G. Parke
  • Publication number: 20080093278
    Abstract: Separator apparatus for removing an impurity or contaminant, such as oil or heavy metals, from a fluid, such as a liquid or a gas, comprises a body member having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, a fluid flow channel for the flow of fluid through the body member from the fluid inlet to the fluid outlet, a plurality of perforated or fluid pervious hollow members, such as spheres or balls, located in the fluid flow channel, wherein at least some of the hollow members contain a fluid treatment medium capable of removing the impurity or contaminant from the fluid as the fluid flows through the fluid flow channel. A fluid pervious or perforated hollow member loaded with a fluid treatment medium is also provided. A method for removing an impurity from a fluid is further provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: DeJon Costello
  • Publication number: 20080078723
    Abstract: Wireless methods for dispensing water supplied by a main purification unit to a remote dispensing device. The remote dispensing device is fluidly coupled with the main purification unit. A wireless transceiver is associated with the remote dispensing device and another wireless transceiver is associated with the main purification unit. The wireless transceivers communicate across a wireless communications link between the remote dispensing device and the main purification unit. The system may include multiple remote dispensing devices and/or multiple main purification units.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Applicant: BARNSTEAD THERMOLYNE CORPORATION
    Inventor: Thomas Joseph Larkner
  • Publication number: 20080078710
    Abstract: Wireless water purification systems and wireless remote dispensing devices for a water purification system. The remote dispensing device is fluidly coupled with the main purification unit. A wireless transceiver is associated with the remote dispensing device and another wireless transceiver is associated with the main purification unit. The wireless transceivers communicate across a wireless communications link between the remote dispensing device and the main purification unit. The system may include multiple remote dispensing devices and/or multiple main purification units.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Applicant: BARNSTEAD THERMOLYNE CORPORATION
    Inventor: Thomas Joseph Larkner
  • Publication number: 20080052094
    Abstract: A system for dispensing water comprises a water processing system comprising an input connected to receive water from a water supply system and an output configured to dispense a metered amount of processed water, the water processing system defining a closed path between the input and the output, a control system operatively coupled to the water processing system for controlling the dispensing of processed water from the output, and, a user interface operatively coupled to the control system for permitting a user to cause the output to dispense a desired amount of processed water. The user interface comprises control means for starting and stopping a flow of processed water from the output and logging means for debiting the amount of process water dispensed from the output from a user account.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2006
    Publication date: February 28, 2008
    Applicant: IMG MANAGEMENT GROUP INC.
    Inventors: Anastasios Morfopoulos, Jason Fahlman
  • Patent number: 7303678
    Abstract: A variable process for treating wastewater at a localized sewage treatment system positioned at the site of the wastewater generation is disclosed. Wastewater initially flows from a residence or business into a first operational area of the wastewater treatment system where a majority of the solid material in the wastewater is allowed to separate out of the wastewater. The wastewater is transferred from the first operational area to a second operational area. At a predetermined transfer time, if the wastewater in the second operational area is at least equal to a predetermined transfer volume, a batch of the wastewater is transferred from the second operational area to a third operational area. The batch of wastewater in the third operational area is aerobically treated for an amount of time based on the volume of the batch of wastewater. The treated wastewater is then transferred from the third operational area for dispersal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Njun, LLC
    Inventors: Lawrence J. Bradford, Rocky R. White
  • Patent number: 7303665
    Abstract: An aquarium drainage system having a filter, funnel, clear tube, sensor housing, light sensor, light beam generator, waste indicator light, primary valve, secondary/safety valve, safety cap and safety switch, as well as the other components shown in the drawings, wherein the filter comprises a vented plate that is placed under the gravel at the bottom of the tank to allow the waste to travel downward under the force of gravity to the funnel where waste is directed to the clear tube connected to the bottom of the funnel. The sensor sends a signal to the waste indicator light when blocked causing the special primary valve to open allowing the waste to drop and be collected in a bucket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Inventor: Pedro A. Claudio-Alvarado
  • Patent number: 7273544
    Abstract: A sludge extractor with a receiving tank, on which a suction connection for a suction element, which draws in a sludge-containing liquid, and a discharge connection for discharge element, which discharges the sludge-containing liquid, are mounted, and with a motor for driving a suction device in such a way that a negative pressure is created in the receiving tank, which negative pressure keeps a vacuum valve on the discharge element closed, is characterized in that the negative pressure acting on the vacuum valve is lower than the pressure which acts on the vacuum valve as a result of the sludge-containing liquid when a predetermined fill level is reached by the sludge-containing liquid in the receiving tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Oase Wübker GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Dieter Hoffmeier
  • Patent number: 7267235
    Abstract: The invention provides a unitary device for converting an open-top container into a greywater recycling apparatus comprising a vessel lid having a submersible float switch-operated pump depending therefrom by extension means sized to enable the positioning of the pump adjacent the inner floor of a container to be covered by the lid, and further having an inlet pipe in fluid connection with a first primary filter means for removing coarse particles and fibers from greywater fed thereto, the first primary filter having an outlet feeding into a second fine filtering means, the filtering means being attached to the underside of the lid, the arrangement being such that after passing through the primary filter means and the fine filtering means, the filtered water falls under the influence of gravity to the bottom of the container to be pumped by the pump through an outlet provided in the lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Inventor: Eitan Sharir
  • Patent number: 7255141
    Abstract: A beverage bottling plant for filling bottles with a liquid beverage filling material, a container filling plant container filling machine, and a filter apparatus for filtering a liquid beverage. The filter apparatus has a plurality of filter chambers which are each provided with an individual valve in the outlet for filtered liquid from a filter chamber to optimize filtration. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: KHS Maschinen-und Anlagenbau AG
    Inventor: Hans Becker
  • Patent number: 7232278
    Abstract: An adjustable outlet riser including a riser (54), a reducer (58) sealed to the riser (54), and an adjustable riser (56) having a tight but slidable fit with the reducer (58). A pond for treatment of aqueous solutions has a piping system dividing its interior into a plurality of cells, the piping system having separate headers for each cell, each header having an adjustable outlet riser in accordance with the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Inventors: Timothy P. Danehy, Gene T. Hilton, Margaret Hensley Dunn, Clifford F. Denholm, IV, Shaun L. Busler
  • Patent number: 7223346
    Abstract: A platelet collection device comprising a centrifugal spin-separator container with a cavity having a longitudinal inner surface. A float in the cavity has a base, a platelet collection surface above the base, an outer surface. The float density is below the density of erythrocytes and above the density of plasma. The platelet collection surface has a position on the float which places it below the level of platelets when the float is suspended in separated blood. During centrifugation, a layer of platelets or buffy coat collects closely adjacent the platelet collection surface. Platelets are then removed from the platelet collection surface. Movement of a float having a density greater than whole blood through the sedimenting erythrocytes releases entrapped platelets, increasing the platelet yield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: Hanuman LLC
    Inventors: Randel Dorian, Scott R. King, Richard Wood Storrs
  • 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: 7198715
    Abstract: A device for separating fluid mixtures, in particular for separating water from oil, includes a vacuum container (10) with several sub-chambers (26, 44, 40). At least one liquid constituent of the fluid mixture can be transported from the vacuum container after separation, by a transport device (12). The other constituents can be extracted from the vacuum container (10) in the form of gas and/or steam, using a vacuum pump (20). One of the sub-chambers (26) of the vacuum container (10) houses a heating device (28, 30), which heats the fluid mixture. The fluid mixture is guided into an additional sub-chamber (40), and is separated into its constituents by traversing a packed bed. Even cold and consequently viscous fluid mixtures can be supplied, due to the heating device, for separation inside the aforementioned vacuum container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignee: Hydac Filtertechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Knut Herges, Andreas Busch
  • Patent number: 7186231
    Abstract: An object is to provide a blood component collection system capable of collecting a desired blood component of high quality. A blood component collection system 1 comprises a centrifugal separator 20 centrifuging blood into a plurality of components, first line 21 for feeding the blood to the centrifugal separator 20, a second line 22 for releasing the blood component from the centrifugal separator 20, a temporary reservoir bag 26? for temporarily reserving the platelet concentrate, a leukoreduction filter 261 for separating and reducing leukocyte from the platelet concentrate, and a platelet collection bag 26 for reserving the platelet concentrate having passed through the leukoreduction filter 261.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: Terumo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshiki Takagi, Shigeyuki Kimura
  • Patent number: 7146659
    Abstract: A fill and drain jetted hydromassage whirlpool bathtub having a tub made of acrylic, resin and fiberglass. The whirlpool bathtub having a water system with drain down water features and components made of a material having an antimicrobial therein. Bacteria reduction occurs in the water vessel system where the antimicrobial is therein. The non-porous acrylic surface, the drain down features and the antimicrobial surfaces provide an economic sanitation level for hydromassage jetted whirlpool bathtub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Inventors: Roy W. Mattson, Jr., Paulette C. Ogden, Philip I. Ogden
  • Patent number: 7105084
    Abstract: A passive treatment system for removing metals, especially manganese, from mine drainage and other aqueous solutions. The Hybrid Flow Pond (HFP) is an open, pond-like structure utilizing a horizontal or vertical operational flow path through a bed of treatment media together with a vertical flow path for flushing accumulated solids from the bed. The bed preferably contains basic steel slag, limestone, marble, blast furnace slag, other types of slag, organic material, or mixtures thereof. In another aspect of the Hybrid Flow Pond, a tiered piping system divides an interior of the treatment bed into cells. Each cell has its own header and adjustable riser whose output level can be raised or lowered to change the head experienced by each cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Inventors: Gene T. Hilton, Jr., Timothy P. Danehy, Margaret Hensley Dunn, Clifford F. Denholm, IV, Shaun L. Busler
  • Patent number: 7041213
    Abstract: A stormwater drainage system capable of collecting, pretreating and disposing of the stormwater runoff into a dry well. Further capable of stopping the flow of stormwater into the dry well in the event hydrocarbons or other contaminants are present in the stormwater. The system is also capable of isolating stagnant water in the system to prevent the infestation of mosquito larvae.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Quiktrip Corporation
    Inventor: Shawn McClanahan
  • Patent number: 7033495
    Abstract: A dissolved air flotation system and method for purifying fresh water. The system is self-contained within a standard shipping container, with all components disposed in-line within the shipping container. Float is removed from the flotation tank with a skimmer that drives float downstream onto a conveyor belt, and the conveyor belt conveys float away from the flotation tank, in the downstream direction, and deposits the float in a collection tank. Clean water may be drawn from the flotation tank continuously, while float may be removed periodically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Sionix Corporation
    Inventors: David P. Lambert, James J. Houtz
  • Patent number: 7014779
    Abstract: A vacuum separation, transport and collection system for immiscible liquids includes a separator (12) for separating two immiscible liquids such as oil and a water-based coolant, and for directing the separated immiscible liquid into a holder (16). A collector (18) is secured through a vacuum line (20) with the holder (16) and a vacuum generator (22) applies a vacuum to the collector (18) and holder (16). A controller (28) controls the vacuum generator (22) to apply a vacuum to the collector (18) and the holder (16) for a predetermined vacuum duty cycle for periodically removing separated immiscible liquid (26) from the holder (16) into the collector (18). Contaminants in the immiscible liquid cannot degrade performance of the system because such contaminants do not contact the vacuum generator (22) or controller (28).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Inventor: Edward C. Kirchner
  • Patent number: 7011742
    Abstract: A system for transferring blood product between a blood storage bag and a processing bag. The system includes an airtight containment chamber for supporting therein one or more blood storage bags. A door is provided for access to the chamber and there is included an airtight fixture that allows tubing from the blood storage bag to exit the chamber. A fluid pump is coupled to the containment chamber for establishing either pressure or vacuum within the containment chamber. A controller controls the air pump to, in turn, control the transfer of a blood product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: ZymeQuest, Inc.
    Inventor: Keith Rosiello
  • Patent number: 7005073
    Abstract: An automated reactor-based system for treating water includes a reactor having an inlet to provide water at an inlet flow rate into the reactor, structure for adding at least one treatment chemical to the water and structure for dynamically adjusting an output flow rate of the water from the reactor. A controller is communicably connected to the structure for adjusting output flow rate to dynamically control the residence time of the water in the reactor to a predetermined residence time. The controller receives at least one input including the inlet flow rate and generates an output flow rate value to achieve the predetermined residence time. The output flow rate value is communicated to and implemented by the structure for dynamically adjusting output flow rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: The University of Florida Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Edward Meredith, Oscar Dardo Crisalle
  • Patent number: 6982032
    Abstract: The invention is directed to an apparatus for delivering activated microorganisms to an environment to be treated. The apparatus has a bioreactor containing microorganisms, a supply of organic and inorganic nutrients and a controller. The controller maintains the conditions of the bioreactor so as to maintain the microorganisms in the exponential phase of growth. Although the apparatus is continuous, the controller also doses a portion of the fluid in the bioreactor to the environment to be treated. The invention also provides a method for the biological treatment of wastes and an organic and inorganic nutrient composition used to feed the microorganisms in the bioreactor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: Aqua-Nova LLC
    Inventors: Jon Shaffer, Jack Fernandes, John Lucido
  • Patent number: 6974538
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fuel filter for an internal combustion engine, comprising a filter housing consisting especially of metal, and a filter element and a pressure-regulating valve located in said filter housing. The aim of the invention is to ensure that no noise originating from the pressure-regulating valve is emitted. To this end, the pressure-regulating valve is mounted in the filter housing in such a way that vibrations are dampened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: MAHLE Filtersysteme GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Baumann, Hans Gebert, Ewald Millich, Albert Schick
  • Patent number: 6966979
    Abstract: An infusion control device controls infusion of a liquid in an extracorporeal blood circuit having an arterial pipe connected to an inlet of a blood compartment of a filter and a venous pipe connected to an outlet of the blood compartment. The arterial pipe is also connected to a pre-dilution pipe of an infusion circuit, and the venous pipe is also connected to a post-dilution pipe of said infusion circuit. The infusion control device regulates and distributes an infusion flow rate in the arterial and venous pipes based on a monitoring of quantities that are directly correlated with the operating conditions of the filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: Gambro Hospal (Schweiz) AG
    Inventor: Renato Pedrazzi
  • Patent number: 6955763
    Abstract: It has been discovered that a mechanical flotation system having only two cells can be nearly as efficient as one having more cells, yet provide an apparatus with a considerably smaller footprint, significantly reduced capital and operating costs, as well as be resistant to floating oil recovery platform wave effects. The dual-cell mechanical flotation system has, in sequential order, an inlet chamber and two gasification chambers or cells, each with at least one gas ingestion and mixing mechanism, and a discharge chamber. A common primary skim collection channel atop the partition dividing the gasification chambers efficiently channels away the bulk of the floating collected matter. At least one baffle depending from the top of the vessel near the primary skim collection channel helps dampen the action of the fluid containing the suspended matter when the vessel is affected by wave motion against the floating oil production platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: Petreco International Inc.
    Inventors: Melvin O. Stacy, Kenneth Tolmie, James C. T. Chen
  • Patent number: 6953550
    Abstract: This invention provides methods and apparatus for detecting and quantifying particulate matter suspended in a fluid. Specifically, the invention provides an integrated, affinity-binding based, analytical system comprising a platform for performing an affinity-binding based assay for specifically binding particulates including microbial cells, and a detection means for detecting the particulates specifically bound to a defined surface or chamber comprising the platform. Methods for using the analytical systems of the invention are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: Tecan Trading AG
    Inventors: Norman F. Sheppard, Jr., Alec Mian, Gregory Kellogg, Stephen G. Kieffer-Higgins, Bruce L. Carvalho
  • Patent number: 6936161
    Abstract: A fluid filter apparatus includes a filter element located in a filter chamber formed in a filter housing. A valve unit is located in a passageway formed in the filter housing to control flow of fluid into or out of the filter chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: Arvin Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Allen B. Wright, Timothy Alan Byrd, L. Steven Cline
  • Patent number: 6921478
    Abstract: A dissolved air flotation system and method for purifying fresh water. The system is self-contained within a standard shipping container, with all components disposed in-line within the shipping container. Float is removed from the flotation tank with a skimmer that drives float downstream onto a conveyor belt, and the conveyor belt conveys float away from the flotation tank, in the downstream direction, and deposits the float in a collection tank. Clean water may be drawn from the flotation tank continuously, while float may be removed periodically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Sionix Corporation
    Inventors: David P. Lambert, James J. Houtz
  • Patent number: 6881328
    Abstract: A method for directly evacuating water that has been separated from the filtered fuel in a fuel filter and has settled in a water collection chamber (4) of the fuel filter to an evacuation area that lies above the water level, by opening a shut-off valve (7), which leads to the exterior of the fuel filter and is connected in a water-conductive manner to the water collection chamber (4). Said evacuation takes place under a pressure that is higher in the water collection chamber (4) in relation to the evacuation area, whereby said pressure differential is created either by the operating pressure within the fuel filter during operation, or by a negative pressure that is applied externally. The method permits the simple evacuation of water form the interior of a fuel filter by a method that is not based on gravity. The inventive method can be implemented in a particularly advantageous manner, using specially configured fuel filters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Mahle Filtersysteme GmbH
    Inventors: Jörg Dittmann, Matthias Gänswein, Edson Manzato, Frank Metz, Ricardo De Abreu
  • Patent number: 6878273
    Abstract: A dialyzing apparatus includes a dialyzer which removes water from blood of a patient at a pre-set water-remove rate, an autonomic-nerve-activity-related-information obtaining device which obtains autonomic-nerve-activity-related information that is related to an activity of an autonomic nerve of the patient, and a water-remove-rate display device which displays a target water-remove rate based on the autonomic-nerve-activity-related information obtained by the autonomic-nerve-activity related-information obtaining device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: Colin Corporation
    Inventor: Keizoh Kawaguchi
  • Patent number: 6878105
    Abstract: Collection systems and methods use a separation chamber that receives blood or a suspension containing red blood cells and performs a separation process including separation of red blood cells from the blood or suspension. The separation chamber contains, during the separation process, a red blood cell volume. An outlet line is coupled to the separation chamber to remove red blood cells from the chamber device, at least in part, while the separation process occurs. A collection container is coupled to the outlet line to receive a volume of red blood cells removed from the separation chamber. A controller includes a processing function that, during the separation process, includes comparing the volume of red blood cells received by the collection container to a selected targeted red blood cell collection volume to derive a difference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: Baxter International Inc.
    Inventors: Kelly B. Smith, Matthew Muller
  • Patent number: 6878272
    Abstract: A dialyzing apparatus includes a dialyzer which removes water from blood of a patient at a water-remove rate during a dialysis operation, a blood-pressure-change-related-information obtaining device which obtains a plurality of sorts of blood-pressure-change-related information each of which is related to a change of a blood pressure of the patient during the dialysis operation, and a water-remove-rate control device which controls the water-remove rate of the dialyzer, based on the plurality of sorts of blood-pressure-change-related information, according to a predetermined control manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: Colin Corporation
    Inventor: Keizoh Kawaguchi
  • Patent number: 6872307
    Abstract: Blood processing systems and methods establish on line communication between a container and a source of blood containing leukocytes and platelets, such as a human donor. The systems and methods create a centrifugal field between the source of blood and the container that separates from the blood an unfinished suspension of platelets having a first physiologic characteristic different than the desired physiologic characteristic. The systems and methods pump the unfinished platelet suspension outside the centrifugal field through a finishing device. The finishing device changes the first physiologic characteristic to the desired physiological characteristic, thereby creating the finished platelet suspension. The systems and methods convey the finished platelet suspension from the finishing device directly into the container. The systems and methods function without interrupting the on line communication between the container and the source of blood.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: Baxter International Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel F. Bischof
  • Patent number: 6872306
    Abstract: A multifunctional pure water maker includes a main body and a reverse osmosis module. The main body includes a base portion and a column extending from the base portion. A water container is removably placed on the base portion. A control cap is pivotally attached to the column and includes a compartment in an underside thereof. An outlet pipe is mounted in the control cap and has an end communicated with the reverse osmosis module. Water purified by the reverse osmosis module flows through the other end of the outlet pipe into the water container when the control cap is in a closed position covering an opening of the water container. A limit switch is mounted in the control cap such that the reverse osmosis module is activated to proceed with production of pure water when the control cap is moved to the closed position and that the reverse osmosis module is deactivated when the control cap is moved to an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Inventor: Albert Shen
  • Patent number: RE40310
    Abstract: A water purification system for purifying water flowing through a water flow path. The system includes a water purification device having an inlet and an outlet in the water flow path and at least one interior volume communicating with the inlet and outlet. A purification medium is disposed within the interior volume of the water purification device. A flow control system is provided controlling a volume of purified water dispensed from the outlet. The flow control system includes an input device configured to allow a user to input a desired volume of purified water to be dispensed from the outlet and a sensing device coupled with the electronic input device and operative to determine the volume of purified water being dispensed from the outlet. A flow regulation device is coupled with the flow control system and operative to stop the discharge of purified water at the outlet upon reaching the desired volume of purified water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Barnstead Thermolyne Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas J. Larkner, Steven C. Peake, Chester E. Chomka, Joseph F. Tilp, Eric J. Willman, Kerry W. Leppert, Tina M. Timmerman