Check Valve Patents (Class 210/136)
  • Patent number: 7048848
    Abstract: A hybrid oil filter assembly includes a housing and a first (e.g., conventional) oil filter element disposed in proximity to a bottom portion of the housing. The first oil filter element contains an open inner volume. A second oil filter element having a generally circular cylindrical shape is disposed circumferentially about a length of the first oil filter element. The second oil filter element may be made of rolled paper and filters particles of a smaller size than the first oil filter element (e.g., down to about one microns, thereby providing micro-filtering of the engine oil).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Inventor: Norbert Assion
  • Patent number: 7029575
    Abstract: The invention relates to a filter, such as an oil filter for a combustion engine. The inventive filter includes a filter housing and a valve, such as a non-return valve, a filter bypassing valve or a drain valve, that is arranged in the filter housing. According to the invention, the valve body of said valve is arranged at a combination component which is provided with a connector for connecting at least one additional filter component, such as an additional valve or a filter inset, to the combination component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Hengst GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Dieter Baumann, Wilhelm Ardes
  • Patent number: 7014753
    Abstract: An electrolytic cell combined into a unitary structure with a liquid circulation fitting, which purifies water by electrode plates inside the cell when an aqueous solution is present. The unitary structure replaces the existing water return fitting. This integrated structure is well suited for use in pools, tubs, spas, fountains or similar large liquid containers. The production of halogen inside the structure is not required to coincide with the cycle of the existing pool filtration system. Rather, the electrodes receive a continuous supply of low level power and the halogen produced inside the structure is disbursed back into the body of water through the fitting using an integrated, dedicated circulation pump, special channels in the surface and a check valve to insure one directional flow from the pool pump and natural convection. Using fresh water drawn from the vessel, halogen is then disbursed back into the vessel with the water at a location different from where the fresh water was drawn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Smartpool Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Holstein, Joseph Hui
  • Patent number: 6989092
    Abstract: In a first embodiment, a top-emptying bailer has a cylindrical filter positioned within a hollow interior of the bailer. A bottom, leading end of the filter is capped by an imperforate bottom fitting having an insert that fits into the hollow interior of the filter. The top, trailing end of the filter receives a cylindrical insert that together with the imperforate bottom fitting insert helps hold the filter open as liquid fluid flows into it. The filter is preferably formed of polypropylene. The bailer is inverted so that liquid fluid in the hollow interior of the bailer is constrained to flow through the filter before it exits the trailing end of the bailer. In a second embodiment, the filter is positioned at the leading end of the bailer and the bailer is emptied from the bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Inventor: David W. Pratt
  • Patent number: 6974539
    Abstract: A combined filter element support and anti-prefill valve is used with an annular filter element having an annular filter media with a hollow core for filtering lubricating oil or fuel. The combined filter element includes a unitary body having an annular portion, wherein the annular portion has annular shoulder extending radially therefrom for supporting the filter element, and a sealing section which engages the end plate over a continuous location which is coaxial with the central spin-on opening. The unitary body has a radially extending plate portion having an axially positioned one-way valve unitary therewith, which valve opens in an axial direction toward the spin-opening. In a preferred embodiment, the one-way valve is configured by a pair of lips which normally abut along a line and separate when subjected to oil or fuel pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: Wix Filtration Corp.
    Inventor: Darrell T. McKenzie
  • Patent number: 6966981
    Abstract: A replaceable filter cartridge assembly for a liquid filter and a liquid filter in which such a filter cartridge is installed. The filter cartridge 10 is provided with a support element 15, and a seat 20 for a sealing membrane 19 is provided on the support element 15. The sealing membrane seals the inlet 22 of the housing via a sealing edge 21 that acts as a return flow barrier over the inlet. The sealing membrane 19 also has a radial sealing surface 23 to provide a seal between the support element 15 and the outlet port 24 of the filter. This permits the filter cartridge to be manufactured in a particularly cost-effective manner and assures simple mounting within the housing. Since only the filter cartridge, which can be pushed onto the support element 15, needs to be exchanged, very little material has to be disposed of when the filter is replaced, which further increases the cost-effectiveness of the filter in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: Filterwerk Mann & Hummel GmbH
    Inventors: Walter Binder, Klaus Mack
  • Patent number: 6942795
    Abstract: A modular filter system and a method of repairing and/or replacing one or more components thereof. The modular filter system includes a traveling backwash hood assembly and a plurality of filter cells having media contained therein. The traveling backwash hood assembly includes a hood and a baffle assembly. Preferably, the hood has at least one opening formed therein and a cover plate operably associated with the at least one opening. The baffle assembly includes a plurality of baffles for directing the flow of fluid. The baffle assembly is detachably connected to the hood to permit the baffle assembly to be moved relative to the hood to permit an individual to readily gain access to the baffle assembly to repair or replace one or more components thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: RG Delaware, Inc.
    Inventors: R. Lee Roberts, Mark Kevin Addison
  • Patent number: 6939460
    Abstract: A hand-held, electrically-powered pool cleaner includes a body and a nozzle for suctioning pool water. The body has a filter, an impeller and motor, rechargeable batteries, and a handle for carrying the body and for maneuvering the nozzle along a surface being cleaned the surface. The impeller draws pool water through the nozzle and the filter to remove debris water. A filter housing disposed between the nozzle and the body accumulates the filtered debris. The body optionally includes a pole attachment member to receive the free end of a pole for maneuvering the cleaner from outside of the pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Water Tech LLC.
    Inventor: Guy Erlich
  • Patent number: 6936162
    Abstract: A unitary three valve filter element support is used in a filter cartridge in which the filter cartridge includes an annular filter element within a housing closed by an end plate having a central opening surrounded by an array of radial openings spaced a fixed radial distance from one another. The unitary support has an annular sealing lip for sealing with the end cap of the filter element, which sealing lip deflects under oil pressure providing a first valve to allow oil to bypass the filter element if the filter media of the filter element is clogged. A second valve is a dirty side anti-drainback valve that is provided by a radial flange projecting from the unitary body. A third valve is a clean side valve aligned with the hollow core of the annular filter element to prevent drainback of clean oil and to prevent refilling of the filter cartridge with used or unfiltered oil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: Dana Corporation
    Inventor: Darrell T. McKenzie
  • Patent number: 6916424
    Abstract: This invention provides a method and apparatus for a hemodiafiltration delivery module that is used in conjunction with a UF controlled dialysis machine to enable hemodiafiltration therapy to be performed. The advantage is that one can fully utilize a current functioning dialysis machine to perform a hemodiafiltration therapy as opposed to purchasing a completely new machine that offers this capability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Assignee: Nephros, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory R Collins, James Summerton, Edward Spence
  • Patent number: 6893555
    Abstract: A dual flow filter unit for the filtration of a pressurized liquid such as oil, comprising a closed housing (10) having an inlet (31), and main and secondary outlets (32, 13) for that liquid. The unit further comprises a main filter element (21) arranged in the housing (10) and having an unfiltered fluid surface exposed to the majority of the liquid flow, the flow through the main filter (21) being directed to the main outlet (32) from the housing (10); and a secondary filter element (17) exposed to a portion of the liquid flow supplied to the housing inlet (31), any flow through the secondary filter being directed to the secondary outlet (13) from the housing. The main filter element (21) offers a low resistance to the flow of fluid therethrough relative to the secondary filter element (17) so that the majority of the flow through the inlet (31) is filtered by the main filter element (21) and the remainder by the secondary filter element (17).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Inventors: Alan Philip Roper, Michael Charles Fallows
  • Patent number: 6887373
    Abstract: A method, system and apparatus for treating water is provided including a treatment mode comprising the steps of drawing said water from a pressurized water source through a controlling device to a treating vessel, the water inlet of said treating vessel being substantially at the top of a treating vessel, contacting said water with pressurized air present at the top of said treating vessel to release substantially all hydrogen sulfide and offensive odors present in the water and to dissolve oxygen in the water which reacts with soluble iron in the water to form ferric oxides, flowing the water through a filter bed of calcite mineral to remove substantially all sediment present in the water and to neutralize the ph of the water and to remove substantially all the ferric oxides from the water, the ferric oxides fastening to the calcite minerals and to already fastened ferric oxides, flowing the water to a final media means and to the outlet of the treating vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventor: Brian McCoy
  • Patent number: 6884349
    Abstract: A fluid filter centerpost assembly in combination with a fluid filter cartridge for creating a “no filter-no run” design according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises an oval-shaped design for the centerpost assembly and an oval-shaped design for a seal that is positioned between the centerpost assembly and the fluid filter cartridge. The centerpost assembly includes a main body having an oval shape in lateral cross section in unitary construction with a radial flange and interior shelf. The interior shelf defines a flow opening and a movable valve ball is positioned on the interior shelf and is able to move in the direction of the flow opening due to incoming fluid pressure. The fluid filter cartridge includes a closed endcap with a blocking pin such that when the fluid filter cartridge is installed, the blocking pin is positioned to prevent the valve ball from closing off the flow opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Fleetguard, Inc.
    Inventor: Zemin Jiang
  • Patent number: 6860998
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process for extracting fixed and mineral oils, and/or essential oils, from materials using a process of solvent extraction which is performed under pressure. The solvent is iodotrifluoromethane or iodotrifluoromethane in combination with a co-solvent. The invention also relates to an apparatus for performing the extraction of fixed and mineral oils, and/or essential oils. Substantial reductions in or elimination of the normally high latent heat of solvent evaporation may also be achieved simply by raising or lowering the temperature of or simply by adding or removing “sensible” heat from the solvent at appropriate points during its re-circulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Naturol Limited
    Inventor: Peter Frederick Wilde
  • Patent number: 6849176
    Abstract: An oil/grease separator separates a lighter liquid from a mixture of the heavier liquid and a lighter liquid. A housing has an inner volume, an inlet to receive influent flow, an outlet to discharge the heavier liquid, which defines a static liquid level, and an outlet port above the static liquid level to discharge substantially all of the lighter liquid and portions of the heavier liquid. The lighter liquid floats on the heavier liquid, so that large volume flows into the inlet raises the liquid level in the housing, flowing the floating lighter liquid through the outlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Assignee: Thermaco, Inc.
    Inventors: William C. Batten, Bruce Kyles, Charles Kemp
  • Patent number: 6843913
    Abstract: The fuel filter housing (12) is formed of inlet segment (14) and outlet segment (16) that are telescopically mounted to each other, with a seal (44) positioned between the mounting flanges (38) and (40). Valve (60) is maintained displaced from its valve seat (58) by valve actuator (66), by the valve actuator engaging the perimeter of the filter (34). When the outlet housing segment (16) moves away from inlet housing segment (14), the filter and the valve actuator (66) also move, allowing the valve the close. The amplitude of movement of the valve (60) toward and away from its seat (58) is smaller than the sealed telescopic movement of the housing segments, so that the valve closes before the segments separate, thereby limiting the amount of fuel lost from the fuel filter assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Inventor: Barry S. Grant
  • Patent number: 6835305
    Abstract: The invention relates to a especially an oil filter for cleaning lubricating oil, especially for internal combustion engines of automobiles, comprising a filter housing which is positioned essentially upright when installed, which contains a filter receiving area for accommodating a ring-shaped filter insert in an upper section and which contains an inlet channel for unclean liquid, which connects a supply line of the liquid filter to an unclean side of the ring-shaped filter insert in the filter receiving chamber and an outlet channel for clean liquid, which connects a clean side of the ring-shaped filter insert in the filter receiving area to a discharge line of the liquid filter, in a lower section. The invention provides for a functional support insert which can be inserted into the support receiving area formed in the lower section of the filter housing and which contains the outlet channel, in order to simplify the production of the liquid filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: Mahle Filtersysteme GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Baumann, Thomas Brieden, Hans Gebert, Benoît Monzie
  • Patent number: 6833066
    Abstract: The invention relates to a liquid filter, for example an oil filter for cleaning lubricating oil, especially for use in internal combustion engines of motor vehicles. A ring-shaped filter insert separates an unclean side from a clean side in the interior of the liquid filter. A metal filter housing comprises a first flange with which the liquid filter can be screwed to a component via a screw connection, said component having an inlet for uncleaned liquid, an outlet for cleaned liquid and a relatively pressureless idle duct. The first flange contains an axially acting outer seal that includes inlet, outlet and idle duct, and a carrier receiving compartment encircled by the outer seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Assignee: Mahle Filtersysteme GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Baumann, Thomas Brieden, Hans Gebert, Markus Layer
  • Publication number: 20040238422
    Abstract: A filter apparatus comprises a housing, a filter element, and an anti-drainback valve. The anti-drainback valve comprises a support member and a valve member coupled to the support member for movement between a normally closed position blocking a flow of fluid out of the housing through an inlet formed in the housing and an opened position allowing a flow of fluid through the inlet into the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2003
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventors: Brian R. Launer, L. Steven Cline, Allen B. Wright
  • Patent number: 6814861
    Abstract: A method and apparatus of purifying feedwater to remove impurities including suspended solids therefrom, the method suitable for using in-line water pressure to permeate water through hollow fiber membranes and to backflush the membranes to remove solids collected or deposited thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Assignee: Zenon Environmental, Inc.
    Inventors: Hidayat Husain, Andreas Draesner, Michael Blair, Henry Behmann
  • Publication number: 20040217066
    Abstract: A piping apparatus for use with a filtration device, the piping apparatus easily allowing a plurality of fluid sources interchangeably used for backwashing the filtration device. The piping apparatus consists of an inlet conduit, an outlet conduit and a process conduit, and at least one additional conduit. In normal operation, process fluid flows into from the process conduit to the inlet conduit, into the filtration device, and out the outlet conduit for reuse in the attached process. Backwashing is accomplished by forcing fluid from either the process conduit or the additional conduit through the outlet conduit into the filtration device and then out of the inlet conduit. A plurality of backwash sources are provided such that an operator can selectably choose between the plurality of backwash fluids. A system of valves and actuators are provided to direct flow into the selected conduits, and to prevent cross-contamination of the backwash sources.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2004
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventor: Joseph A. Morgan
  • Patent number: 6808637
    Abstract: An ozone water producing system and control method, which is flexibly used indoor or outdoor irrespective condition of a flow channel, is provided for reconstituting polluted water as environmentally friendly. The ozone water generating system is maintained in an optimum state for improving entire performance of the system as well as predicting and preventing the backflow of ozone water, which is occurred due to outlet blocking in a discharging process. The controlling method of the present ozone water producing enables to prevent the deteriorating the performance and ensure the operation stability. The ozone water-producing system comprises an influent air controller, an injector, a gas-liquid separator, and an ozone water-backflow, preventing device. The present system and controller is designed to prevent water backflow, being frequently occurred in the conventional system, for improving the performance, stability and extending operating lifetime.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Assignee: Dong Woo Kiyoun Inc.
    Inventor: Soo Hawn Cho
  • Patent number: 6797157
    Abstract: A hand-held, electrically-powered pool cleaner includes a body and a nozzle for suctioning pool water. The body has a filter, an impeller and motor, rechargeable batteries, and a handle for carrying the body and for maneuvering the nozzle along a surface being cleaned the surface. The impeller draws pool water through the nozzle and the filter to remove debris water. A filter housing disposed between the nozzle and the body accumulates the filtered debris. The body optionally includes a pole attachment member to receive the free end of a pole for maneuvering the cleaner from outside of the pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Water Tech LLC.
    Inventor: Guy Erlich
  • Publication number: 20040182761
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a point-of-use water treatment system (WTS) unit (20) for filtering and treating contaminants in water. WTS unit (20) may include a first primary coil (74) located in a base unit (22) which inductively power a secondary treatment device such as a UV lamp assembly (24). A filter assembly (26) is used which has a filter block (90) and an inner sleeve (92) which extends inside filter block (90). Inner sleeve (92) defines a chamber in which the secondary treatment device (24) may be disposed. First and second valves and seals may be interposed between the filter assembly (26), secondary treatment device (24) and base unit (22) to allow the filter assembly (26) and secondary treatment device (24) to be independently replaceable. Secondary treatment device (24) may be a lamp assembly (24) which includes a condensing element (84) to condense mercury in a bulb in the arc path between filaments (444).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2004
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Applicant: Access Business Group International LLC f/k/a Amway Corporation
    Inventors: Roy W. Kuennen, Eric K. Bartkus, David W. Baarman, Kenneth E. Conrad, Terry L. Lautzenheiser, Greg Snyder, Scott A. Mollema
  • Patent number: 6793808
    Abstract: A valve support and sealing element 23 for use with a filter cartridge is in the form of a molded unitary body (FIG. 2). The body includes (i) a first annular section 30 projecting into the filter hollow core 13 and having a sealing ring 33 for sealing with the end cap 53; (ii) a second annular section 34 sealing with the end plate 17 at interface 35; and (iii) a flange 38 radially projecting from the second section 34 to cover the inlet openings 19 to act as an anti-drainback valve. The flange 38 includes radial ribs 42 that also extend axially on the first section 30 but are spaced from the sealing ring 33. In operation, upon clogging of the media 14, oil flows between the ribs 42 and the sealing ring 33 is deflected radially inwardly to provide a bypass for the oil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Dana Corporation
    Inventor: Darrell T. McKenzie
  • 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: 6787045
    Abstract: A mixing, aerating or oxygenating method and apparatus to aerate or oxygenate ponds, rivers or lakes, sewage or effluent treatment lagoons or beds or to airstrip volatile compounds from water or other solutes by distributing gas through a piped system having a plurality of outlets (4) branching from a common distribution line (2). In order to deliver a desired quantity of air or oxygen at each outlet, a constant flow regulator (5) is disposed in each outlet which limits the flow to a set amount when the pressure in the pipe system exceeds a predetermined minimum value. In one method, the regulator is chosen to achieve this irrespective of pressure drop along the distribution line. In another method, the regulator is chosen to give the desired output with no pressure drop along the distribution line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Inventor: Kenneth O'Hara
  • Patent number: 6782917
    Abstract: An anti-drainback apparatus for a filter used in a vehicle transmission, allows fluid to keep the transmission pump primed when the engine is turned off. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a seal disposed in a neck member of the filter at its outlet, and a body having slanted sides, and a platform base. The body is disposed in the neck member such that the slanted sides of the body abut the seal, and the platform base covers the opening of the neck member, preventing fluid from draining back from the pump into the sump when the engine is turned off. Thus, the body is movable from an unsealed position which allows fluid flow to the transmission when the engine is turned on, and the sealed position which prevents fluid drainback into the filter when the engine is turned off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: SPX Corporation
    Inventors: James B. Wolford, Joseph A. Geisler, Mitchell Kujawski
  • Publication number: 20040164006
    Abstract: A filter apparatus is provided which includes a first filter membrane element (40a), and a second bacterial filter membrane element. The first viral filter element (40a) is capable of treating water at a first second flow rate and is adapted to remove contaminants which are larger than a first size, while the second bacterial filter element (40b) is capable of treating water at a second higher flow rate and is adapted to remove contaminants which are larger than a second contaminant size. The first and second filter elements (40a), (40b) may be commonly housed within a sealed housing. An accumulating vessel (60) is placed in fluid communication with an outlet of the first filter element (40a) and an outlet of the second filter element (40b). The filter apparatus includes a duck bill type check valve (75) made of an antimicrobial material intermediate the second filter element (40b) and a dispensing faucet (70).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Publication date: August 26, 2004
    Inventors: Keith E. Brown, Paul Peterson, Stuart Park, Ron Kindel, Eric Sklar, John Miller, Ken Weight
  • Patent number: 6758971
    Abstract: A medical filter (11) is constructed as a container with an interior volume in open fluid communication with a patient connection element (31) and a transport connection element (39). Filter support structure (13) mounted within the interior is structured as a thin, perforated member (14) carrying hydrophilic filter medium (17). A first flow path directs spent dialysate from the patient across the surface of the filter medium (17) to the transport connection (39). A second flow path directs fresh dialyalysate from the transport connection (39) through the filter medium (17) and the perforated support structure (13) to the patient connection (31).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: Sorenson Development, Inc.
    Inventor: LeVoy G. Haight
  • Publication number: 20040112807
    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: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2003
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventors: Daniel W. Aberle, James H. Lenhart
  • Patent number: 6749744
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for regenerating an ion exchange cartridge. In household appliances with an electric heating element for heating water, such as irons, coffee makers, and electric water kettles, deposition of scale is prevented by using an ion exchange cartridge (16) comprising a resin (23) which binds alkaline earth metal ions such as Ca2+ and Mg2+, but also negative ions such as SO42− and CO32− ions. The device is a simple tool in which the cartridge can be inserted for regeneration. The device comprises a reservoir (2) with an outlet (10) to which an inlet (6) of the cartridge can be coupled. By filling the reservoir with a brine, for example 1 l of water with 10% by weight of NaCl, said brine will flow through the cartridge replacing the alkaline earth metal ions, carbonate ions, and sulfate ions in the resin with the alkali metal ions (Na+) and the chloride ions (Cl−) of the brine. The brine can be easily drained into a sink.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventor: Godwin Dirk Zwanenburg
  • Publication number: 20040108273
    Abstract: Gradient performance with high pressure gradient solvent delivery system is optimized by approximation of infinite stroke volume of high pressure pumps by the addition of pulse dampening with backflow prevention to each high pressure pump. The backflow prevention adds sufficient minimum flow resistance, thereby enhancing the performance of the pulse dampening over a wider range of flow rates resulting in consistent gradient performance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Applicant: Waters Investments Limited
    Inventors: Hal Richardson, Richard W. Andrews
  • Publication number: 20040104153
    Abstract: A portable water purifier having a housing, a handle, an input tube, an output valve, a power supply line, and a water purification system. This water purification system includes a preliminary filter, a pump, two reverse osmosis units and a discharge tube. The preliminary filter can be placed in a river or a lake. The power supply line can connect to an electric energy source, such as electric generator, solar electric generator, and so on. So, it is very convenient to use it indoors or outdoors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2002
    Publication date: June 3, 2004
    Inventor: Chung-Hsiang Yang
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6733666
    Abstract: A filtering device, especially a suction return filter includes a filter housing having two useful connections and a tank connection, and accommodates at least one filter element. The filter housing also provided with three return valves, two of which are held in the closing position by spring loads. All of the return valves are combined as a module at one end of the filter housing. The remaining return valve is configured as an integral constituent part of one of the spring-loaded return valves, has an opposite opening direction relative to it, and is not spring loaded. This arrangement enables the return valve unit to have a compact arrangement which can be structurally easily connected to the filter housing at a central point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Assignee: Hydac Filtertechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Werner Wilkendorf, Holger Erich Wegmann
  • Patent number: 6733664
    Abstract: A filtration device for separating concrements, fragments or other body material from liquids which are processed by means of a lithotripter connected to a suction device equipped with a peristaltic valve and sucked out of body cavities. The device has a functional zone having an inlet zone connected at one end to the lithotripter, and an outlet zone connected to the suction device. There is a collection zone mounted on the functional zone and connected to the other end of the inlet zone. A filter element is disposed between the functional zone and the collection zone, so that body material processed by the lithotripter will be deposited in the collection zone, and the filter element will separate the body fluids collected by the lithotripter from the body material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Assignee: Ferton Holding S.A.
    Inventors: Andreas Menne, Wolfgang Merkle
  • Patent number: 6730229
    Abstract: A nozzle and associated system is for treating fluids is provided, particularly for a system including a reaction vessel containing a granular filter or ion exchange medium and a fluid manifold immersed in the granular or ion exchange medium. The nozzle has an outer screen defining a interior cavity, a duct for providing flow to the interior cavity, and a restrictor having at least one orifice through which the duct is in communication with the cavity. The orifice or orifices of the restrictor have a total open area that is less than the total open area of the outer screen. By this sizing relationship the nozzle flow rate is dictated by the inner orifice area, not the outer screen open area. In comparison to the outer screen openings each of the inner orifices is less susceptible to plugging or wearing than the narrow outer screen openings which are adjacent to medium. The nozzle according to the invention therefore provides a consistent predetermined flow rate and pressure drop profile over extended periods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: AWTS, Inc.
    Inventor: Ken V. Pandya
  • Publication number: 20040079689
    Abstract: An apparatus for the enhancement of water quality is provided for purging a low flow area of a subterranean water distribution system. The apparatus can include: a water carrier system for transporting water through the apparatus, a flow control valve for adjusting the flow rate of water through the system; a programmable solenoid controller for activating and deactivating the flow control valve; electronic and/or optical sensing devices for measuring water quality; a data access and programming port; and an electronic control system. The components cooperate to provide a means for automatically measuring water quality and then purging water from the low flow area as required. The apparatus can discharge directly to a below ground drain such as a storm drain, sewer or drain field. Alternatively, the apparatus can have an above ground downwardly directed discharge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2003
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Inventor: Michael R. Newman
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6722507
    Abstract: A fluid filter assembly includes a valve assembly having a plunger with openings defined therein. The plunger includes a sealing portion and a non-sealing portion. The sealing portion sealingly engages a valve seat, while the non-sealing portion includes an opening which leads to a central passage through the plunger, the opening and central passage cooperating to direct the flow of fluid through the plunger and an associated spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Arvin Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven Cline
  • Publication number: 20040069714
    Abstract: The present invention is a filter apparatus with methods to capture a desired amount of material suspended in a liquid or gas for monolayer deposition, analysis or other uses. Novel filter devices are employed to capture material which may be used for the purification or enrichment of various sample constituents or captured material may be observed or analyzed. Alternatively, particulate material may be used as a transport mechanism for proteins or chemicals which in turn may be assessed or used. The filter device employs means to sense pressure and adjust, halt or otherwise control sample flow. The pressure sensor essentially monitors the flow rate of sample suspension through a filter, typically responding at a predetermined pressure associated with capture of a desired amount of material on the filter. A separate valve or valve integrated with pressure sensing provides a means to adjust sample flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Gary William Ferguson
  • Publication number: 20040035766
    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: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2002
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventors: Allen B. Wright, Timothy Alan Byrd, L. Steven Cline
  • 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: 6685825
    Abstract: A system for treating water includes an ozone injector combined with a monitoring apparatus 400 that includes a flow meter 402 and a pressure sensor 404. The monitoring apparatus includes a flow path 424 having inlets 420, 422 communicating with the inlet 304 and outlet 306 of the ozone injector main water pipe 302. The flow path inlets are spaced respectively upstream and downstream of the ozone injection point. In operation, water filtered in filter 108 is ozonized in venturi 316 and then sterilized by UV lamp 210. The lamp is also used to generate ozone that is delivered to the venturi via check valve 308. The pressure sensor positioned within the flow path produces signals to control the switch of the UV lamp. The flow meter is used to determine when the filter should be replaced. The pressure sensor may be in the form of a silicon chip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Senno Technology Inc.
    Inventor: Steven Chang
  • Publication number: 20040011715
    Abstract: A hybrid oil filter assembly includes a housing and a first (e.g., conventional) oil filter element disposed in proximity to a bottom portion of the housing. The first oil filter element contains an open inner volume. A second oil filter element having a generally circular cylindrical shape is disposed circumferentially about a length of the first oil filter element. The second oil filter element may be made of rolled paper and filters particles of a smaller size than the first oil filter element (e.g., down to about one microns, thereby providing micro-filtering of the engine oil).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Norbert Assion
  • Publication number: 20040011714
    Abstract: The invention relates to a filter device provided with at least one filter unit (10), which can be connected to a hydraulic circuit (14), with at least one supply (18) and one discharge line (18), and with at least one cooling unit (22). Said cooling unit is connected to a secondary branch line (20), is connected to the hydraulic unit (14) in a manner that is parallel to the supply line (18), and is supplied with a hydraulic medium by means of a switching device (24) once a predetermined temperature threshold value of the hydraulic medium to be cooled is attained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Werner Wilkendorf
  • Patent number: 6656351
    Abstract: An embolic protection device for use in a blood vessel when an interventional procedure is being performed in a stenosed or occluded region to capture any embolic material which may be created and released into the bloodstream during the procedure. The device includes a filtering assembly having a self-expanding strut assembly and a filter element attached thereto. The filtering assembly is capable of allowing controlled backwards flow of blood through the filter assembly, or blocking the backwards flow entirely, during aspiration of embolic material trapped within the filter assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: William J. Boyle
  • Patent number: 6656350
    Abstract: A water purifying cartridge, attached to an empty polyethylene terephthalate or PET bottle integrally formed with a seat member, including: a flange member having substantially the same diameter as an outer shape of a spout of the bottle and a thickness portion screwed to water-tightly fit an inner portion of a screw cap of the bottle; a water charging/discharging mouth portion opened to a substantially central portion of the flange member; a hollow neck portion inserted inside of the spout of the bottle adjacent to the flange member and having projected portions; a filter portion under the neck portion; an extractable/contractable adjusting portion adjacent to the filter portion; a cylindrical portion adjacent to the adjusting portion; and a water purifying portion having an outer periphery with clearances for passing water therethrough. The adjusting portion, the cylindrical portion and the water purifying portion all containing water purifying agents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Kitakaze Corporation
    Inventor: Hiromichi Kitakaze
  • Publication number: 20030213733
    Abstract: A filter system especially useful in the treatment of waste material, in particular liquid waste material which may include particulate matter therein. The filter system includes a series of filters of progressively finer porosity in order to selectively eliminate particulate (or semi-particulate) matters from a carrier material, typically but not exclusively, of a fluid or liquid nature. The filters are mounted within a housing which includes an outlet port and a plurality of inlet ports, wherein each inlet port includes a check valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2003
    Publication date: November 20, 2003
    Inventors: Scott Beckham, Dale Emis, Nilesh Patel