Controls Valve Patents (Class 210/123)
  • Publication number: 20100038292
    Abstract: An apparatus that combines desalination and pressure washing. The apparatus includes separate inlets for seawater and for freshwater. The apparatus includes a first diverter valve to selectively permit the flow of seawater or freshwater into the apparatus. The apparatus also contains a second diverter valve for directing the flow of seawater or freshwater to a pressure-washer outlet for pressure washing or directing the flow of seawater to a desalination assembly such as a reverse-osmosis (RO) membrane for desalination. The apparatus contains one or more pumps sufficient to generate fluid pressure for pressure washing and generating a driving pressure across the desalination assembly. A variable frequency drive system may be included in the apparatus to regulate the RO pump flow rate across a fixed orifice thereby regulating driving pressure and in turn the freshwater production rate from the RO system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2008
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Inventor: Jess Edward Fike
  • Publication number: 20090321329
    Abstract: An expansion tank has a vertically set up cylinder with a float therein, which forms a separating element between water and gas in the cylinder. The float is present in the cylinder with play and is provided with sealing rings over the circumference, which are in contact with the cylinder wall. An opening at the bottom of the cylinder is adapted to be connected with a pipe. A raised edge around the opening is adapted to form a sealing engagement with the float.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Inventors: Cristijn Melchior De Vin, Johannes Cornelis Hakker
  • Patent number: 7638066
    Abstract: A stormwater filtration system includes a stormwater containment structure including a bottom surface, an inlet that receives stormwater and an outlet through which filtered stormwater exits the stormwater containment structure. A flow structure is at the bottom surface. The flow structure includes a conveyance conduit running along the bottom surface of the stormwater containment structure and in fluid communication with the outlet of the stormwater containment structure. The conveyance conduit includes a port extending through a sidewall of the conveyance conduit. A saddle includes an upper component and a lower component connected to the upper component such that the upper and lower components straddle the conveyance conduit at the port. The upper component includes an opening in communication with the port and the lower component supports the conveyance conduit above the bottom surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Contech Stormwater Solutions Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Jacob, Christopher S. Hersey, Casey T. Kenniston, Michael P. Stone
  • Patent number: 7635431
    Abstract: A flow control device for the drain lines of a septic system interrupts the flow in the event the proximate water table rises to a level of over-saturation resulting in the effluent flow being directed to the remaining drain lines. Each drain line is provided with a control box having a float controlled inlet valve having an open position allowing flow to the drain line. When the drain line cannot handle the required flow rate or when the proximate water table rises, the float shifts the valve toward a closed position, thereby redirecting the flow to the remaining lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2009
    Inventor: James H. Tyler
  • Publication number: 20090266750
    Abstract: Device for siphoning off fuel from motor vehicles to be scrapped, comprising a tank drilling device, a pump and two circuit valves, a storage tank and a pump nozzle, wherein the circuit valves are switchable between tank drilling device and pump such that the pump conveys fuel from the tank drilling device to the storage tank or from this to the pump nozzle, and wherein the device is provided with a compressed-air connection and the tank drilling device and the pump and the circuit valves are operable or switchable by compressed air.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Josef Dagn
  • Patent number: 7578931
    Abstract: The present invention teaches a pressure release protection device for automatic ground cleaning vehicles, comprising an air suction pipe, an airtight cover, an air relief valve, a spring, a filter screen, a filter screen holder, a crown bar, a floating ball, and a foam isolating bucket, wherein the filter screen holder is fixed connected to the upper wall of the waste water tank, and the filter screen is fixed connected to the filter screen holder; the foam isolating bucket is connected to the filter screen holder; the floating ball is disposed inside of the foam isolating bucket and is connected to the crown bar; the crown bar is installed into the central hole of the filter screen holder, and can slide up and down with the floating of the floating ball; said airtight cover serves to cover the top of the waste water tank; the air relief valve comprises a handle part and a tubular shank part, wherein the shank part is installed into the central hole of the airtight cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Inventor: Ruizhen Zhu
  • Publication number: 20090139920
    Abstract: A filter assembly (10) for a standpipe (14) having an opening (20) for the introduction of filtered fluid into the standpipe includes a filter (12). The filter (12) has a filter element (18) in fluid communication with the opening (20). The filter (12) is configured to seal fluid from the opening (20) except fluid flowing through the filter element (18). A valve assembly (42) is biased by a spring (46) against a first surface of the filter (12), and the valve assembly has a seal (58) on a surface facing the standpipe (14). As the filter (12) is displaced, the valve assembly (42) displaces along the standpipe (14) under bias of the spring (46) until the seal (58) of the valve assembly seals the opening (20).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2007
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Applicant: International Engine Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventors: Samir D. Dhawale, Steven J. Dickerson
  • Publication number: 20090114578
    Abstract: A filter assembly includes a filter housing including an inlet, through which hydraulic fluid enters the housing, and an outlet, through which hydraulic fluid exits the housing, valve housing containing a bypass valve located adjacent the inlet in a chamber, the valve including an orifice that opens and closes in response to differential pressure across the valve, and a screen secured to the valve housing and covering the orifice, the screen having a fine mess for removing contaminants from the fluid that flows through the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2007
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Inventors: Lev Pekarsky, Timothy A. Droste, Gary H. Hafemeister
  • Publication number: 20090065410
    Abstract: A vacuum-actuated liquid chlorine dispenser for use in an aerobic treatment system. Effluent is diverted from a discharge pipe in an aerobic treatment system into an inlet of a venturi chamber. The resulting pressure differential resulting from effluent flowing through the venturi chamber is communicated to a dosage container, which results in disinfectant flow from a reservoir into the dosage container until the volume of disinfectant contained by the dosage container causes a pressure control device, such as a float valve, to inhibit further pressure communication. Thereafter, the accumulated disinfectant within the dosage container egresses through a disinfectant outlet that may include a flow regulation device such as a drip emitter or check valve. The present invention allows for more regular dosing of known and accurate disinfectant amounts following each pumping cycle of the aerobic treatment system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2007
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventor: Cecil Yandell
  • Publication number: 20090065409
    Abstract: This present invention provides a gasoline-ethanol separation apparatus which is used for an internal combustion engine, has a simple structure, and can separate a mixture fuel formed of mixed gasoline and ethanol into gasoline and ethanol.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2008
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventors: Junichi Kamio, Yasuyuki Kubo
  • Publication number: 20080216503
    Abstract: A combination filter assembly housing (4) and treatment chamber (8) for use in recovering and sanitizing condensates from air conditioning systems and other sources with vapors released from dissolvable tablets (32), such as those used for treating swimming pool water or laundering purposes. Filter assembly housing (4) has a removable bottom cover, an internal p-trap and valve structure configured to reduce the likelihood of treatment vapors from treatment chamber (8) traveling back through filter assembly housing (4) and entering the associated condensate producing system. Applications can include, but are not limited to, use with systems that replenish water lost from swimming pools due to evaporation, to provide water for filling toilets, pressure washing, cleaning, and other gray water uses, and to provide potable water in areas where is in limited supply.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2004
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventor: Christopher Ralph Cantolino
  • 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.
  • Publication number: 20080185325
    Abstract: A system for removing pollutants from a liquid. The system has a tank with a bypass chamber, a treatment chamber, inlet and outlet ports. A dividing wall is located within the tank and defines the bypass chamber and the treatment chamber. The dividing wall has an inlet opening, one or more outlet openings, retaining rods forming a retention space at least partially below the inlet opening, and a vertically-extending weir between the inlet opening and the outlet opening(s). The inlet opening receives polluted liquid from the inlet port and the one or more outlet openings output a cleaned liquid to the outlet port. A float in the treatment chamber is adapted to float in a retention space formed by the retaining rods. The float is adapted to rise against the inlet opening when a fluid level in the treatment chamber reaches a predetermined level to substantially block the inlet opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Christopher Adam Murray, Scott Gordon Monteith
  • 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: 20080105616
    Abstract: A gravity separator S separates a liquid phase O and a gas phase G from a multiphase fluid mixture E. The gravity separator comprises a collector 1 for collecting the liquid phase O, and outlet 8 for extracting the gas phase G and a draining circuit 3 coupled to the collector 1 for draining the liquid phase O out of the separator. The gravity separator S further comprises a floating assembly 2 coupled to the collector 1. The floating assembly is arranged to float at an interface GLI between the liquid phase and the gas phase so that the collector is positioned in the multiphase fluid mixture present in the gravity separator S for collecting substantially the liquid phase O.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2005
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: Francis Allouche
  • Patent number: 7314509
    Abstract: A gas/liquid phase separator includes a fluid inlet, a vapor outlet, a liquid outlet, and first and second valves disposed in fluid communication with the liquid outlet. Both valves are controllable in response to a fluid level in the gas/liquid phase separator. Both valves are further disposed in parallel fluid communication with each other. A method of controlling a liquid level in the phase separator includes sensing an amount of liquid in the phase separator, sensing a system pressure, and selectively opening a valve disposed in fluid communication with the phase separator to drain the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: Proton Energy System, Inc.
    Inventors: A. John Speranza, Andrzej E. Stanek, Angelo A. Morson, Justin D. Baltrucki
  • Patent number: 7294254
    Abstract: A localized wastewater treatment system for biologically treating wastewater. Raw wastewater flows into a first operational area where a majority of solid material in the wastewater separates out of the wastewater and is retained in a solids area positioned below the first operational area. As the wastewater continues to flow into the first operational area, the wastewater overflows from the first operational area to a second operational area. Once the wastewater in the second operational area reaches a predetermined volume, a batch of the wastewater is transferred from the second operational area to a third operational area where the batch of wastewater is biologically treated by a population of microorganisms contained within a solids area located beneath the third operational area. The treated wastewater is then removed from the third operational area for dispersal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Assignee: Njun, LLC
    Inventors: Rocky R. White, Lawrence J. Bradford
  • Patent number: 7282144
    Abstract: Semi-submersible floating decanters and methods of use are provided. The decanters are moveable between a non-decant position and a decant position, and include a float forming an internal cavity, the float having a central annulus, a weir having an inlet opening and positioned within the center of the annulus and fixedly connected to the float forming a passage between the float and the weir, and a discharge conduit connected to the weir for discharging a supernatant fluid therefrom. A depth adjusting mechanism is provided for moving the decanter within a liquid between a non-decant position wherein the inlet opening is above the surface of the liquid and a decant position wherein the inlet opening is positioned within the supernatant to allow the supernatant to be withdrawn, the depth adjusting mechanism including a pumping mechanism for moving a fluid relative to the internal cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Assignee: Ashbrook Simon-Hartley Operations, LP
    Inventor: Jose Patrick Everett
  • Patent number: 7243669
    Abstract: A float-responsive valve includes a valve actuator that is selectively responsive to operation of a float to move from a first position to a second position in which the valve actuator holds the valve element in its open position. When the valve actuator is in the second position thereof, fluid pressure that would otherwise tend to force the valve element toward its seat is essentially incapable of closing the valve element. Preferably, a force vector applied through a flapper-type valve actuator forms an essentially nonnegative, more preferably generally collinear, angle with a bisector line passing through a pivot axis of the valve actuator and a primary contact point between the valve actuator and the flapper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Assignee: Clack Corporation
    Inventor: Don Douglas Vaughan
  • 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: 7175760
    Abstract: A water purification and dispensing apparatus includes a water reservoir, a recirculation line having an inlet end connected to the reservoir and an outlet end connected to the reservoir, a pump connected to the recirculation line for pumping water through the recirculation line, and a water treatment mechanism in the recirculation line between the inlet end and the outlet end. The treatment mechanism includes an ultraviolet lamp. Further, a first water dispensing outlet is connected to the reservoir, and a second water dispensing outlet is connected to the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Innowave, Inc.
    Inventors: George S. Cary, Tyler L. Adam
  • Patent number: 7097046
    Abstract: A filter assembly for an aquarium has a self-cleaning filter. A fine mesh filter screen is disposed between an inlet and an outlet for filtering solid matter from the water that is pumped from the aquarium, through the filter, and back to the aquarium. When the filter screen is sufficiently loaded, or according to a set schedule, the solid matter is suctioned off the filter screen with a vacuum assembly. For that purpose, the water flow is first diverted, the filter screen is rotated, and the vacuum assembly is turned on. After the screen has been vacuumed, the vacuum assembly is once more turned off and the water flow is redirected to pass through the filter screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Inventor: Gerry Calabrese
  • Patent number: 7094334
    Abstract: The described embodiments of the present invention include a water filter having a float portion with a magnet that moves up and down due to water flow to activate a switch for tracking the use time of the filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: H2O International Inc.
    Inventors: Guillermo Guzman, Keith Worboys
  • Patent number: 6979399
    Abstract: A paint spray booth sludge recovery system, apparatus and method is provided for water washed paint spray booths. The spray booths are used with a tank or pit which can accommodate flotation for removal of spent paint. Preferably, the tank has a drop box section, a chemical treatment section, a weir box section and a booth recirculation pump section. A series of weirs are used to separate the spent paint and send a concentration thereof from the weir box to a separator or centrifuge. The water level in the system is controlled by sensing the weir box water level to keep the water crests over the weirs at the desired levels. Scavenging and agitation are provided in the tank to keep it entirely clean for prolonged periods without any accumulation, even during downtime.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Inventor: Steve E. Telchuk
  • Patent number: 6938633
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for supplying process liquid s for a machine tool, which are able to reduce the consumption power and power factor of the pump 21 to a large extent in comparison with prior arts while maintaining the effects of process liquid s according to prior arts. The invention is embodied so that process liquid s such as coolant or cleaning fluid is supplied to necessary points by causing the process liquid s to flow down, which is stored in a sub tank 20 installed at a suitable height in a machine tool, by a gravity action when intermittently supplying the process liquid s such as coolant or cleaning fluid to the necessary points such as a workrest 2 and a workpiece w fixed thereon; the supplied process liquid s is collected into a main tank 19 on the other hand; and the process liquid s stored in the main tank 19 is transferred into the sub tank 20 by the pump 21.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Horkos Corp.
    Inventors: Shinsuke Sugata, Tadashi Makiyama, Takanori Miyata
  • Patent number: 6861033
    Abstract: A water supply sub-system for connection to a main water supply system includes a storage tank having an inlet with a flow control valve for connection to the main water supply system. The sub-system may be disconnected from the main system and configured as a closed system for disinfecting the sub-system. An outlet line connects the storage tank to a pump that pumps water from the tank to a sub-system supply line. One or more branch connections may connect the sub-system supply line to high-demand water using devices, such as dialysis machines. The supply line may be a feedback loop. A shunt feedback loop parallel to the feedback loop of the supply line has a pressure control valve that regulates pressure in the supply line feedback loop. A filtration device may also be included to ensure the purity of the water circulating through the sub-system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Gambro, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen M. Mullins, Douglas A. Luehmann, John D. Bielefeld
  • Publication number: 20040182760
    Abstract: A float-responsive valve includes a valve actuator that is selectively responsive to operation of a float to move from a first position to a second position in which the valve actuator holds the valve element in its open position. When the valve actuator is in the second position thereof, fluid pressure that would otherwise tend to force the valve element toward its seat is essentially incapable of closing the valve element. Preferably, a force vector applied through a flapper-type valve actuator forms an essentially nonnegative, more preferably generally collinear, angle with a bisector line passing through a pivot axis of the valve actuator and a primary contact point between the valve actuator and the flapper.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2004
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Applicant: Clack Corporation
    Inventor: Don Douglas Vaughan
  • Patent number: 6790346
    Abstract: Cyclone separator with flow rate regulation for separating solid particles from a fluid, comprises a recipient having a fluid inlet and an upper outlet for clarified fluid. The separator also comprises a recycling conduit which places an outlet conduit in communication with the inlet, a three-way valve to an inlet of which the outlet conduit is connected, and to outlets of which the recycling conduit and the outlet are connected. The three-way valve has an obturator which can block the connection between the outlet conduit and the recycling conduit, a one-way valve which has an obturator and is located at the outlet downstream of the three-way valve. The one-way valve is normally closed and can connect the outlet conduit with the outlet. The three-way valve and the one-way valve are brought into action when the fluid pressure in outlet from the separator reaches first and second predetermined values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Cattani S.p.A.
    Inventor: Ideo Caleffi
  • Patent number: 6783665
    Abstract: The unit includes a sensor means (20) positioned in the collection chamber to undergo activation when the water level reaches a predetermined maximum value; there is also provided an electrically operated withdrawal device (30) connected to the vehicle electrical system, to withdraw the water separated within the collection chamber through the bleed outlet, or to close the outlet; a microprocessor (40) is also provided, connected to the sensor (20) and to the switch (50) of the vehicle electrical power system, to electrically power the withdrawal device (30) when the sensor (20) is activated and the ignition key is in a first activation position (I).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: UFI Universal Filter International S.p.A.
    Inventor: Giorgio Girondi
  • Patent number: 6749743
    Abstract: A device for diverting the flow of liquid in a wastewater treatment system in flow communication with effluent returning from a recirculating treatment section and in flow communication with a discharge line for removing a portion of treated effluent to a receiving body. The device also has openings for returning a percentage of the effluent back to the wastewater treatment system. A valve operatively responsive to a float in the treatment system whereby when the effluent level in the system falls below a critical point, all of the effluent is recirculated back into the treatment system and when the effluent level rises sufficiently a percentage of cleaned effluent exits the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignees: Zabel Industries International, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kevin J. Rohrer, Theophilus B. Terry, III
  • Patent number: 6736964
    Abstract: The apparatus for separating and measuring mixed fluids, specifically the separation of crude oil and water and the volumetric measurement of each of the mixed fluids using a mechanical portable device primarily involving a separation vessel, an adjustable float within the vessel which allows the fluid of less specific gravity to be released from the top of the separation vessel through an upper pipeline, the heavier specific gravity fluid to be released from the bottom of the separation vessel through a lower pipeline, with fluid volume meters on each of the pipelines to measure the liquid flowing through the respective pipelines, the apparatus presented as a portable unit transferable from one pumping device to another, allowing for an accurate measurement of the fluids being extracted by the pumping devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Inventor: Dennis Paul Caldwell
  • Publication number: 20040074828
    Abstract: The cyclone separator with flow rate regulation is for separating solid particles from a fluid, especially in dental apparatus. The separator comprises a recipient having an inlet for the fluid and an upper outlet for the fluid once the solid particles have been removed therefrom. The separator also comprises a recycling conduit which places an outlet conduit in communication with the inlet, a three-way valve to an inlet of which the outlet conduit is connected, and to outlets of which the recycling conduit and the outlet are connected. The three-way valve has an obturator which can block the connection between the outlet conduit and the recycling conduit, a one-way valve which has an obturator and is located at the outlet downstream of the three-way valve. The one-way valve is normally closed and can connect the outlet conduit with the outlet. The three-way valve and the one-way valve are brought into action when the fluid pressure in outlet from the separator reaches first and second predetermined values.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Applicant: CATTANI S.P.A.
    Inventor: Ideo Caleffi
  • Publication number: 20040065616
    Abstract: A method of desalination of sea water is disclosed and the method comprises the steps of drawing a stream of sea water into a supplying tank; passing a high pressure air via the top end of the supplying tank; delivering sea water to a pressure tank; and performing desalination via a plurality of reverse osmosis films.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2002
    Publication date: April 8, 2004
    Inventor: Chau-Fu Shu
  • Patent number: 6709577
    Abstract: An apparatus for treating water with ozone includes a first conduit and a passageway for admitting ozone into the first conduit. There is a second conduit having a top, an inlet connected to the first conduit and an outlet. There is a third conduit having a top and a vertical portion extending downwardly adjacent to the outlet of the second conduit. The third conduit has a bottom with an outlet below the outlet of the second conduit. The outlet of the second conduit is no more than one-third the distance from the top of the third conduit to the outlet of the third conduit. There is a passageway connecting the third conduit to the first conduit above the outlet of the second conduit. The passageway is sized to permit a reduced flow of water through the third conduit compared to the flow through the second conduit and provides means for gas discharged from the outlet of the second conduit to rise through the vertical portion of the third conduit to increase dissolving of the gas in the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Northern Research Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald Shaw
  • Patent number: 6682654
    Abstract: A paint spray booth sludge recovery system, apparatus and method is provided for water washed paint spray booths. The spray booths are used with a tank or pit which can accommodate flotation for removal of spent paint. Preferably, the tank has a drop box section, a chemical treatment section, a weir box section and a booth recirculation pump section. A series of weirs are used to separate the spent paint and send a concentration thereof from the weir box to a separator or centrifuge. The water level in the system is controlled by sensing the weir box water level to keep the water crests over the weirs at the desired levels. Scavenging and agitation are provided in the tank to keep it entirely clean for prolonged periods without any accumulation, even during downtime.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Inventor: Steve E. Telchuk
  • 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.
  • Patent number: 6638420
    Abstract: Apparatus for treatment of sewage on vessels. The apparatus includes at least a first aeration chamber, a settling chamber, a disinfection chamber, and a storage container. In order to provide a multifunctional and efficient apparatus, the aeration chamber, the settling chamber, the disinfection chamber, and the storage container are integrated into the same structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Evac International Oy
    Inventor: Pekka Tyllilä
  • Patent number: 6627070
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for aeration in a filter system. The present invention provides an air injection adaptor for coupling between a filter tank and a valve controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: Ecowater Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Marlin A. Frank
  • Patent number: 6607661
    Abstract: The invention relates to a filtering apparatus, the operation of which is based on alternating filtering and flushing stages. The apparatus comprises one or several filter elements placed into a filter housing supported by a casing, the filter housing being provided with an inlet assembly for the liquid flow to be filtered, an outlet assembly for the filtered liquid flow, and a channel for flushing the filter elements with air. Further, the filter housing is arranged to be prefilled with liquid before the next filtering stage is initiated after the flushing. According to the invention, a filling channel is directed into the filter housing through the casing, the channel being provided with a valve, which closes the channel at the same time as the filter housing is opened, for example, for changing the filter elements. Closing may be automatic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Assignee: Parker Hannifin Oy
    Inventor: Tuomo Koivula
  • Patent number: 6596158
    Abstract: A waste water filtration tank receives waste water under hydrostatic pressure. The tank collects solids using a filter screen. When the screen becomes clogged with collected solids, liquid is forced into a float chamber which contains a float. As waste water collects in the float chamber, the float rises, as do a beam member and a pair of rod members to which the float is attached. When the float reaches a predetermined level, cams contained on the rising rod members act on spring-loaded latches, opening the latches and permitting a spring loaded sleeve and reservoir gate to rise, opening the reservoir outlet. Accumulated solids are then drained from the reservoir and the backwash from the screen chamber also clears the clogged screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: G & K Valve Services Limited
    Inventor: Anthony Cowan
  • Patent number: 6511594
    Abstract: An apparatus for treating water with ozone includes a first conduit and a passageway for admitting ozone into the first conduit. There is a second conduit having a top, an inlet connected to the first conduit and an outlet. There is a third conduit having a top and a vertical portion extending downwardly adjacent to the outlet of the second conduit. The third conduit has a bottom with an outlet below the outlet of the second conduit. The outlet of the second conduit is no more than one-third the distance from the top of the third conduit to the outlet of the third conduit. There is a passageway connecting the third conduit to the first conduit above the outlet of the second conduit. The passageway is sized to permit a reduced flow of water through the third conduit compared to the flow through the second conduit and provides means for gas discharged from the outlet of the second conduit to rise through the vertical portion of the third conduit to increase dissolving of the gas in the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Assignee: Northern Research Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Donald Shaw
  • Publication number: 20030010688
    Abstract: A valve for use in a fluid treatment system for control the flow of fluid between a source and a treatment media disposed in a treatment chamber has a housing having an inlet, and outlet and a passageway in fluid communication between the inlet and outlet. The tank also has a sealing member configured to reciprocate in the housing between a first position and a second position. The housing also has a containment chamber for retaining the sealing member in the first position out of the flow of fluid in the passageway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2001
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Applicant: United States Filter Corporation
    Inventor: Kenneth Orr Reed
  • Publication number: 20030006177
    Abstract: An aquarium filtering system for gravity flow systems wherein a float valve is incorporated in the drain conduit from the aquarium, wherein the float valve is operated by the water level of filtered water within a sump, such that if the water level in the sump rises above a predetermined level due to inadequate water return to the aquarium, the drain conduit will be closed by the float valve. A pre-filter is incorporated in the drain conduit to filter water upstream of the float valve, with the filter preferably being a sock filter enclosed in a sealed housing which remains filled with water. Most preferably, the float valve and any pumps utilized in the system are submerged within the water in the sump to reduce noise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Inventors: Nick Lari, Dave Flom
  • Patent number: 6500344
    Abstract: Method and arrangement for filtering particles out of a liquid, in which the liquid containing particles is supplied to a sedimentation tank (12), and the liquid is made, by means of hydrostatic liquid pressure prevailing in the tank, to flow through a filter member (18) on the shell surface of a drum (14) mounted in the tank (12). When the liquid in the tank has risen to a predetermined level above the drum (14) as a result of clogging of the filter member (18), cleaning of the filter member (18) in situ in the tank is initiated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Inventors: Hyosong Lee, Lars Ehnstrom
  • Patent number: 6488852
    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. 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 composition used to feed the microorganisms in the bioreactor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignee: Aqua-Novus™, Corp.
    Inventors: John Lucido, Jon A. Shaffer
  • Patent number: 6481456
    Abstract: A float control valve for liquid treatment apparatus is located sufficiently far above the level of the liquid being treated that forces created by the liquid, or forces created during movement of the apparatus, do not harm the control valve or interfere with its functioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Inventor: Kemp E. Falkner
  • Patent number: 6413416
    Abstract: A water treatment apparatus includes a water treatment vessel providing a water treatment zone which, in use, will contain a volume of water to be treated. A water inlet leads into the vessel, with a water outlet leading from the vessel. A cartridge holder for holding a water treatment cartridge containing a water treatment substance for treating water in the vessel, and a controller for controlling the level of water in the vessel, are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: P.P.A. Water Industries
    Inventor: Leon Buchan
  • Patent number: 6398038
    Abstract: A vortex mechanical power filter includes a filter unit 12 arranged within a vortex tank 10 such that water to be filtered, e.g. flowing from a from a fish pond via gravity supply line 22, impinges upon a side of the filter unit at an angle to cause rotation thereof. The filter unit can also include a polyurethane ring float 121 so that the filter unit is self-adjusting within the vortex tank. Within the filter unit, a vortex disrupter 20 can be provided to aid in rotation thereof. As the system operates, a water jet assembly 18 sprays a plurality of water jets onto the filter screen to gently clean waste therefrom so that filtered water can be continuously provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Inventor: Manuel J. Fontes
  • Patent number: 6387251
    Abstract: An apparatus for dosing a granulated or powdered additive in the water of a water works includes a dosing assembly (10) with a water collecting tank (9) hydraulically connected to inflows (20, 21) of unmixed water and to an outflow of additive-mixed water (33) to the works. Unmixed water is tapped through a duct (41) from an inflow and fed to a substantially tubular manifold (18), upwardly connected to tank (19). The additive is delivered into manifold (18), in which the additive mixes with water tapped from the inflow through duct (41) and additive-mixed water discharges into collecting tank (19).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Sintec S.r.l.
    Inventors: Luigi Marsiglietti, Sergio Milli, Giorgio Cesarini
  • Patent number: 6375835
    Abstract: A system for recovering oil from a body of water (e.g. river, lake, or sea) includes (i) an inlet unit 10 having a hopper-shaped main body and floaters 12 attached to the hopper by tugs 11; and (ii) a segregation tank 15 having (a) an inlet pipe 14 to receive oil-contaminated water from the inlet unit, (b) a first discharge pipe 17 with pump 20 therein for delivering oil to an oil tank, and (c) a second discharge pipe 18 for delivering water from the segregation tank. The discharge pipes include respective valves 21, 22 therein. A sensing unit 100 (e.g. ultrasonic transducer) and a panel sensing unit 110 are provided in the segregation tank for determining the level of oil in the tank. A controller including a microprocessor 200 controls the discharge valves 21, 22 in response to signals received from both sensing units 100, 110.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Inventors: Boyoung Lee, Jaeyun Jeong, Myongsu Kang