Abstract: A water distribution system including a water storage tank, a water treatment unit, a diverter valve, and interconnecting water conduits arranged so that the same water treatment unit can be used to treat water supplied from a fill port to the storage tank during a fill operation, as well as water leaving the storage tank for supply to one or more points of water use during a supply operation. A diverter valve is provided which is movable between a fill position wherein the water treatment unit is in fluid communication with the fill port and not the point of water use device, and a supply position wherein the water treatment unit is in fluid communication with the at least one point of water use device and not the fill port. When the diverter valve is in the fill position, water supplied to the fill port can thus flow through the diverter valve and to the water treatment unit for treatment then to the storage tank for storage.

Abstract: Chromatographic column system, in particular a chromatographic column system of the expanded bed adsorption column type comprises a column connected to a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet and dimensioned to comprise an expandable filter bed between said fluid inlet and said fluid outlet. A top collector is adapted for collecting substance filtered by said filter bed and top collector actuator is provided for actuation of the top collector. A top stratum position detector is constructed and adapted to detect a top stratum of the filter bed when in expanded state; and a controller is provided communicatively coupled to said top stratum position detector and said top collector actuator, for moving the top collector as a function of a detected top stratum position. A clean and automated way is provided to optimize the collection of filtered substance.

Abstract: A method and apparatus provide pulsed fluid treatment at a plurality of distinct points utilizing pulsed magnetic energy concentrated in a plurality of distinct areas along a fluid flow path. The instant invention prevents the formation and accumulation of contaminants within conduits and on equipment utilized in the transportation, delivery and processing of fluid columns. It may also be utilized to accelerate the separation of oil and water and increase the efficiency of oil/water separation equipment.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for separating a slurry into liquids and solids in a pressure filter apparatus and for forming a substantially dry and often loosely packet filter solids cake wherein a high temperature and high pressure steam is introduced into an initially formed filter cake in the pressurized filter apparatus to force the steam into the interstices of the formed filter cake and then pressure within the filter apparatus is reduced to permit the steam to flash and to expand within the interstices to absorb any remaining fluids within the formed filter cake and to cause the filter cake to become substantially dry and loosely packed. The filtered solids cake is then discharged from the filter apparatus.

Abstract: An Anti-Terrorism water quality monitoring system for continuously monitoring a potable water treatment system and related potable water distribution network that provides potable water to a municipality, city, housing development or other potable water consumer. The system includes the collection of data from the water distribution system and from the water treatment facility and from advanced separation processes which are integrated into analytical instruments. The data collected are stored in a remote database on a remote server computer or bank of computers and accessible by Homeland Security or its designated agency. Preferred parameters of monitoring include the turbidity and disinfectant such as chlorine, hypochlorous acid, sodium hypochlorite, calcium hypochlorite, ozone, chlorine dioxide, chloramines, hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid.

Abstract: The present invention provides a blood circuit capable of automatically performing priming for safe treatments. The blood circuit includes: a hemofilter (56) purifying blood; a blood removal line that has an end connected to an inlet of the hemofilter (56) and that consists of a first blood removal line (84), a second blood removal line (88), and a third blood removal line (89); a blood return line that has an end connected to an outlet of the hemofilter (56) and that consists of the first blood return line (92) and the second blood return line (94); and an anticoagulant (bypass) line (90) reducing a difference between (a) a pressure of a priming fluid flowing in the blood removal line and (b) a pressure of the priming fluid flowing in the blood return line.

Abstract: A slurry filtration system and apparatus with peripheral elements for conditioning a slurry prior to entry into a pressure filter (32) and the control of fluid and liquid introductions into the filter (32) to produce a desired filter cake or filtrate. The system includes a controller (16) for controlling the operation of the peripheral treatment for the introduction of coagulants, flocculants and polymers to treat or condition a slurry introduced into the filter (32) and the control of additional peripheral equipment for treatment of the slurry with liquid clearing or cake forming gas, steam, or drying or conditioning gas within the filter chamber (40) for the production of both filtrate and filter cake from the filter (32) to a form desired.

Abstract: A water or liquid substance filtration device is disclosed which removes microorganisms and organic contamination and sterilizes the containers and water lines after the unit. The unit is portable, or can be mounted stationary. The unit has a five stage filtration and sterilization system controlled by an independent onboard computer system that can link to a central computer system to keep track of all independent units. The unit will physically filter out of the water contaminants that can be reused, destroyed, or flushed down a safe drain. It can also be modified to filter for a certain size of particulate, making recovery of certain substances possible. The unit has a self-diagnostic system that can determine if the unit is operating properly and can shut down a part thereof if one of the capillary units fails. The system is hydrophilic, can run at low pressures and can be designed from low to extremely high volumes. The unit uses ozone to disinfect containers and water lines.

Abstract: A dialysis system includes a pump actuator; a disposable cassette having a pump chamber operable with the pump actuator; a patient line connected to the disposable cassette and in fluid communication with the pump chamber; and a logic implementor configured to prime the patient line according to a sequence in which (i) the pump actuator activates the pump chamber to partially prime the patient line and (ii) a remainder of the patient line is primed via gravity.

Abstract: A water recycling tank 40 for a filtration system 10 including a filter 30 and pump 20, the tank: (a) in communication with the filter and the pump; (b) that has a substantial height difference between the upper internal space and the lower internal space of the tank whereby the tank is adapted to permit water-borne sediments 47 to settle near the base 52 of the tank over time; (c) has a waste outlet 44 near or on the base; (d) has a recycling outlet 43 above the waste outlet and in communication with the pump; and (e) has an inlet 42 above the recycling outlet in communication with the filter.

Abstract: An auto-injection system provides high throughput screening of fluidic samples. A sample injection valve has a first position which applies a reduced pressure to a sample sipper tube for aspirating a fluidic sample into the sample sipper tube, and a second position which delivers the fluidic sample to a sample supply loop. A column control valve has a first position which delivers the fluidic sample from the sample supply loop to a sample chromatography column, and a second position which reverses direction of fluid flow through the sample chromatography column to deliver the fluidic sample to a sample analyzer. A wash control valve has a first position which supplies a wash buffer solution to the sample chromatography column in a forward fluid flow direction, and a second position which supplies elution solvent to flush the sample supply loop.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for conveying an amount of red blood cells and an amount of plasma to a blood source. Blood is conveyed from a blood source into a separation device and the separation device is operated to separate the blood into a layer containing red blood cells and a layer containing plasma. Red blood cells and plasma are removed from the separation device and volumes of the red blood cells and plasma are conveyed to the blood source. The volumes of red blood cells and plasma are alternately conveyed to the blood source for said amounts of red blood cells and plasma.

Abstract: A batch reverse osmosis system in fluid communication with a fluid reservoir and a method for operating the same includes a first housing having an inlet valve in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir. The system also includes a pressure vessel having an elongated liner with a first end and a second end, a membrane disposed within the second end having a membrane inlet, a membrane outlet disposed at the second end and a permeate outlet. The system also includes a recirculation recirculation device disposed within the first end of the elongated liner. The recirculation recirculation device defines a fluid volume between the recirculation recirculation device and the membrane adjacent to the membrane inlet. The system includes a plunger disposed within the housing and an actuator. The housing and the plunger define a chamber. The plunger is coupled to the actuator.

Abstract: A system for fluid treatment that provides alternative regeneration cycles within the same fluid treatment device. A second alternative regeneration cycle is available within the same device, which has independent cycles or processes from the first regeneration cycle. The first and second regeneration cycles can be programmed at the same time and be programmed to alternatively run based upon the number of individual cycles run, the time the cycles have run, the amount of fluid that has passed through the device, or the concentration of brine and/or chlorine in the fluid within the device.

Abstract: A self-governing continuously variable inertial gas-liquid separator has an axially movable valve controlling axial flow through a nozzle orifice, and a variable flow controller upstream of and controlling the valve.

Abstract: A liquid extraction unit for extracting liquid from an aqueous material is described. The unit includes a filter that is configured to allow passage of the liquid and prevent passage of the aqueous material. The unit also includes a first vacuum that is configured to extract air from the extraction unit. The unit further includes a second vacuum that is configured to pull the liquid through the filter. The first vacuum and the second vacuum are located after the filter.

Abstract: A mobile waste processing system and method is disclosed for processing materials in a tank, typically an underground storage tank. A mobile fluid processing module is disposed adjacent to or over the tank, and sealingly connected to the tank through a tank riser. Support equipment, which may include an electric power module, a chiller module, a heating module, and a control and monitor module, are disposed a distance from the processing module, and connected thereto. A pump and optionally a dispersal nozzle are deployed from the processing module into the tank, and effluent is extracted for processing. The processing trailer includes effluent processing equipment such as an evaporator and demister, condenser, vacuum pump, and interim storage tank. The effluent is processed, and at least a portion is removed. Some of the processed effluent may be returned to the tank.

Abstract: The present invention provides an automated system and method for packing chromatography columns. In one embodiment, the system first determines the type of media that is present in the column, and uses this information to generate an automated procedure to pack the specific media type. In a second embodiment, the media type is made known to the system, such as via input from the operator. The system then uses this information, in the same manner as in the first embodiment, to generate an automated procedure to pack the specific media type. Finally, in a third embodiment, parameters such as column height and rate of compression are made known to the system, such as via input from the operator. The system then packs the column in accordance with these supplied parameters.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling a water characteristic of a body of water by controlling the cyclic release of a water characteristic material into the body of water with or without the system being responsive to a level of the water characteristic in the body of water with the system capable of being controlled from a display or from a wireless control module or both.

Abstract: An Anti-Terrorism water quality monitoring system for continuously monitoring a potable water treatment system and related potable water distribution network that provides potable water to a municipality, city, housing development or other potable water consumer. The system includes the collection of data from the water distribution system and from the water treatment facility and from advanced separation processes which are integrated into analytical instruments. The data collected are stored in a remote database on a remote server computer or bank of computers and accessible by Homeland Security or its designated agency. Preferred parameters of monitoring include the turbidity and disinfectant such as chlorine, hypochlorous acid, sodium hypochlorite, calcium hypochlorite, ozone, chlorine dioxide, chloramines, hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid.

Abstract: A portable, refillable water dispenser serving batches of water purified of organic and inorganic pollutants includes a portable, refillable and hand-holdable vessel for holding and pouring water having a spout and, inside the portable, refillable and hand-holdable vessel, moving water and still water processing module cooperative to remove inorganic and organic pollutants from water received batchwise by the vessel.

Abstract: There is provided a circulation-type apparatus for generating drinking water using moisture in the atmosphere, comprising a continuous circulation/repeat sterilization system, in which the generated drinking water is continuously circulated along a desired path so that the drinking water is repeatedly sterilized and purified to prevent multiplication of bacteria in a drinking-water tank, a water collection tank, a cold-water tank, and a hot-water tank, and also prevent a phenomenon of dust flocculation in the drinking-water tank, thereby perfectly securing the safety for sanitary and clean water quality.

Abstract: A mechanism for introducing pressurized air into an extracting cartridge comprises an air pump, an on-off valve, and a pressure sensor for detecting an internal pressure within the extracting cartridge. The on-off valve is turned on in order to introduce the pressurized air into the extracting cartridge. When the internal pressure detected by the pressure sensor has become equal to a predetermined pressure range for a pressurization upper limit, the on-off valve is turned off in order to confine the area within the extracting cartridge in the pressurized state, the pressure being thereby exerted upon a sample liquid, a washing liquid, or a recovery liquid having been injected into the extracting cartridge.

Abstract: A liquid filter cartridge system includes a housing, a valve body, a valve actuator, a filter, an inlet passage having a portion extending through each of the valve body and the valve actuator and into the filter, and an outlet passage having a portion leading out of the filter, and extending through each of the valve actuator and the valve body. An interface is located between the inlet passage portions in the valve actuator and the filter and an interface is located between the outlet passage portions in the valve actuator and the filter. The inlet passage interface and the outlet passage interface may lie in the same plane as each other. They may each comprise a face seal comprising an axial seal between the valve actuator and the filter. They may each comprise a seal between the valve actuator and the filter, wherein the two seals are sealed via compression and not via sliding contact.

Abstract: A method for filtering the water of an aquarium, a water cultivation tank or similar water bonds, by means of a filtering system comprising a closed vessel and defining a chamber, a filtering body housed in the chamber, a circulation pump having a suction duct, communicating with the aquarium by interposition of a siphon and a delivery duct communicating with the aquarium. Vent means are also provided to eject the air from the chamber. The method comprises the steps of: filling the filtering body with a predetermined amount of water; starting the pump; short-circuiting the pump by means of a fluid passage by putting the delivery duct in communication with the closed vessel; keeping the pump short-circuited at least up to determine the siphon trigger; subsequently stopping the pump; keeping the pump stopped to allow the air to escape from the chamber and the filtering body to be filled with water; re-starting the pump.

Abstract: A portable, refillable water dispenser serving batches of water purified of organic and inorganic pollutants includes a portable, refillable and hand-holdable vessel for holding and pouring water having a spout and, inside the portable, refillable and hand-holdable vessel, moving water and still water processing module cooperative to remove inorganic and organic pollutants from water received batchwise by the vessel.

Abstract: A method of monitoring the daily operating performance parameters for water treatment processes through the collection of localized data. The data is manipulated to generate preconfigured performance, maintenance, and quality assurance reports and further provide automatic submission of data as required for regulatory review of certain water treatment systems such as potable water treatment. The data is collected from sensors located at an equipment site and transferred to a remote computer located by use of the Internet, further all data received and used for generation of reports is also accessible by Internet connection and be delivered directly to the regulatory agency without additional process.

Abstract: A method for determining a treatment parameter on a haemofiltration device, as well as a haemofiltration device for applying the method, based on the recognition that a determination method known from haemodialysis can, with little modification, be transferred to haemofiltration. To this effect a physical-chemical characteristic of the substitution fluid and of the fluid which is removed from the haemofilter by way of an ultrafiltrate outlet pipe, is determined. Furthermore, this characteristic is acquired before, after or during a change of this characteristic in the substitution fluid, and is evaluated. As a result, the ion dialysance and thus the urea clearance of a haemofiltration device, which can also be operated as a haemodiafiltration device, can be determined.

Abstract: A method of setting up a dialysis treatment in a dialysis machine (1) provided with a device (6) for setting up the dialysis treatment, possessing a microprocessor (11), a data input (12, 13) and a screen (13), comprises the steps of: supplying a group of functions (U(t, P); C(t, P)) of a quantity (U; C) that is characteristic of the dialysis treatment as a function of time (t) and of a parameter (P) correlated with intermediate values (U1, C1) of each function (U(t; P); C(t; P)) of the group; selecting a subset of the group of functions (U(t, P); C(t; P)) imposing boundary conditions (U0, TWL, DT; C0, Cf, DT; C0, CS, DT) that are characteristic of a particular therapy; assigning values to the parameter (P) and displaying the curves corresponding to the functions (U(t, P); C(t, P)) of the subset and to the respective values assigned to parameter (P); and selecting one of the functions ((U(t, P); C(t, P)) of the subset on the basis of the images of the curves.

Abstract: A computer-implemented process rates pipe segments in a water distribution system, the water distribution system including pipe segments and hydrants. Information gathered from maintenance tasks and inspections performed on the pipe segments and hydrants within the water distribution system is stored in an electronic database. The information in the electronic database is analyzed for a specified period of time to determine the presence of water quality factors and service interruption factors. Points are assigned to the pipe segments based on the presence of the water quality factors and service interruption factors. The pipe segments are rated based on the total points assigned to the pipe segments. The pipe segment ratings can be used for prioritizing the replacement of pipe segments in the water distribution system.

Abstract: A method of setting up a dialysis treatment in a dialysis machine may include the steps of determining conditions of a dialysis treatment adapted to a specific patient, determining a first function (U(t)) of a first quantity (U) characterizing the dialysis treatment as a function of time (t), and determining a second function (C(t)) of a second quantity (C) characterizing the dialysis treatment. The first function (U(t)) satisfying the conditions of the dialysis treatment and corresponding to a curve having a defined shape. The second function (C(t)) is correlated with the first function (U(t)) by constants (M, N) determined experimentally and the second function (U(t)) corresponding to a curve having a shape of the same kind as the shape as the first curve.

Abstract: A variable flow rate injector provides accurate, precise, and reproducible injection volumes that have low dispersion. The invention is particularly well-suited for HPLC injection volumes <500 nL but can be used to inject larger volumes and in different applications as well. Injections are performed at a first flow rate and separations are performed at a second flow rate. For improved IIPLC system performance, the first flow rate is less than the second flow rate. The injector uses a variable flow rate fluid supply that allows rapid switching between flow rates desired for injection and flow rates desired for separations.

Abstract: A dialysis machine may include a main control unit provided with a memory that stores the parameters of a dialysis treatment carried out on a patient and a plurality of slave control units interacting with the main control unit. The slave control unit may provide the control of the dialysis treatment carried out on the patient. A functionality checking unit may include a memory that stores dialysis treatment parameters and interacts with the main control unit to carry out checking of the functionality of the dialysis machine. At predetermined intervals of time, the functionality checking unit may send the dialysis treatment parameters stored in its memory to the main control unit, and the main control unit may compare the dialysis treatment parameters stored in its memory with those sent from the functionality checking unit, and generate an alarm signal if the dialysis treatment parameters do not coincide with each other.

Abstract: A system for automated treatment of fluids having interchangeable process modules (39, 40, 41, 42, 43), which are arranged next to each other, and which are respectively provided with a control unit and a fluid unit. The fluid unit is controlled by the control unit in order to carry out a module-specific process function during the treatment of the fluids. The control units are interconnected via a data bus (48), which is common to the process modules (39, 40, 41, 42, 43), and the fluid units are interconnected by a fluid bus (49) that has several channels. A fluid bus section is provided for at least one part of the channels inside each process module (e.g., 42). This section has fluid bus interfaces (52) at the ends thereof. A connection unit (51) is configured to be mounted between the respectively adjacent fluid bus interfaces (52) of two successive process modules (e.g., 41, 42) in at least two different mounting positions.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for providing a self-cleaning water circulation system which may be utilized for a fish pond, fountain, or the like. Means for automatically cleaning the pump intake to avoid pump failure due to leaves and debris is provided. The circulation system also comprises a self-cleaning filter for cleaning the circulated water whereby maintenance requirements are substantially reduced.

Abstract: A method comprising: a) selecting a loading variable from operating variables, the loading variable being directly related to total energy input into the system and equipment constraint of the system; b) selecting a performance specification variable which is required to be kept within a defined target at all times during operation of the system; and c) pairing the performance specification variable with a manipulated variable having a mass/balance relationship to the performance specification which is not the loading variable and; d) controlling the manipulated variable to maintain the performance specification variable with the defined target.

Abstract: A system and method for reducing the energy consumption of a swimming pool cleaning system is disclosed. The system operates the skimmer for a first predetermined time period inputted into a programmable controller. At the conclusion of this time period, the programmable controller activates an actuator which causes a diverter valve or in-line valve to isolate and selectively operate a suction vacuum for a second predetermined time period. Isolating and selectively operating the suction vacuum from the skimmer allows the centrifugal pump to be driven by a motor in low speed mode to be used all of the time for skimming and cleaning operations, thereby greatly reducing energy consumption.

Abstract: A filter backflushing system including an accumulator containing a pressurized bladder which propels a supply of backwash fluid contained within the accumulator in a reverse direction through a filter element. While the backwash fluid is pumped within the accumulator, an inert gas inside the bladder is compressed against the inside walls of the accumulator. Upon reaching a pressure of approximately 300-600 psi, the filtered fluid is released from the accumulator and the full energy of the compressed gas is released as well. This release produces a high pressure rapid burst of backwash fluid which effectively removes clogging contaminants from a filter element.

Abstract: A method of monitoring the daily operating performance parameters for water treatment processes through the collection of localized data. The data is manipulated to generate preconfigured performance, maintenance, and quality assurance reports and further provide automatic submission of data as required for regulatory review of certain water treatment systems such as potable water treatment. The data is collected from sensors located at an equipment site and transferred to a remote computer located by use of the Internet, further all data received and used for generation of reports is also accessible by Internet connection and be delivered directly to the regulatory agency without additional process.

Abstract: A filter backflushing system including an accumulator containing a pressurized bladder which propels a supply of backwash fluid contained within the accumulator in a reverse direction through a filter element. While the backwash fluid is pumped within the accumulator, an inert gas inside the bladder is compressed against the inside walls of the accumulator. Upon reaching a pressure of approximately 300-600 psi, the filtered fluid is released from the accumulator and the full energy of the compressed gas is released as well. This release produces a high pressure rapid burst of backwash fluid which effectively removes clogging contaminants from a filter element.

Abstract: A system and method for reducing the energy consumption of a swimming pool cleaning system is disclosed. The system isolates and selectively operates the skimmer for a first predetermined time period inputted into a programmable controller. At the conclusion of this time period, the programmable controller activates an actuator which causes a diverter valve to isolate and selectively operate a suction vacuum for a second predetermined time period. Isolating and selectively operating the skimmer from the suction vacuum allows the centrifugal pump to be driven by a motor in low speed mode to be used all of the time for skimming and cleaning operations, thereby greatly reducing energy consumption. A similar system is disclosed for isolating and selectively operating a pressure cleaner. Methods for employing both systems are disclosed.

Abstract: This invention provides a fluid system for exchanging used hydraulic fluid with fresh hydraulic fluid in an accessed hydraulic circuit. One particular application provides an exchange apparatus for exchanging fluids of the type found in motor vehicle hydraulic circuits. The exchange apparatus may utilize pressurized spent fluid flow as a fluid power medium to activate the auto-replenishing fluid exchanger system to replace the spent fluid with fresh fluid at equalized flow rates. Alternatively, the exchange apparatus may utilize pressurize fresh fluid as a fluid power medium to activate the exchange system. Additional power may be supplied by an external boost pump to supplement the flow of fluid.

Abstract: A controller provides an abstract, “virtual” interface between the software based applications resident in the controller and the hardware elements of the fluid processing system. The controller also provides a straightforward yet very interactive dual region user interface.

Abstract: A wastewater treatment system for treating a wastewater stream from industrial and municipal sources uses a control system to sequence and supervise the treatment steps in a batch flow mode of operation or a continuous flow mode of operation. In operation, the wastewater treatment system predominantly operates in the batch flow mode. However, the wastewater treatment system operates in a continuous flow mode when the influent wastewater stream exceeds the system's nominal design flow transition point. The control system receives an input signal, relating to the influent flow rate, and switches one or more reactors of the wastewater treatment system from the batch flow mode to a continuous flow mode according to a control algorithm.

Abstract: A method of monitoring advanced separation and/or ion exchange processes through the collection of localized data. The data is manipulated to generate preconfigured performance, maintenance, quality assurance, quality control, regulatory, cost reports, performance graphing and historical trends. The data is collected from sensors located at an equipment site and transferred to a remote located by use of the Internet, further all data received and used for generation of reports is also accessible by Internet connection.

Abstract: A blood processing device is self-contained within a case, which sized to enable hand transport. Self-contained in the case is a blood separation device, which, for example, can comprise a centrifuge. A controller is also self-contained in the case. The controller includes a control program for carrying out one or more blood processing procedures. A fluid processing system employs a centralized cassette containing preformed, fluid pressure actuated pump stations, preformed fluid flow paths, and preformed, fluid pressure actuated valves in the fluid flow paths. A fluid pressure actuator in the case holds the cassette and selectively applies fluid pressure force to the valves and pump stations in response to the control program. The control program thereby operates the cassette to convey blood to and from the blood separation device through the fluid processing system.

Abstract: A liquid chromatography includes a mobile phase quantity integrator for calculating a quantity of a mobile phase used in the liquid chromatography and sent by a fluid pump after a waste fluid in a drainage reservoir has been emptied, a rinsing fluid quantity integrator for integrating a quantity of a rinsing fluid used in a sample introducing section after the waste fluid in the drainage reservoir has been emptied, and a waste fluid quantity calculation unit for calculating a quantity of the waste fluid stored in the drainage reservoir based on the quantity of the mobile phase calculated by the mobile phase quantity integrator and the quantity of the rinsing fluid calculated by the rinsing fluid quantity integrator. A display unit displays the quantity of the waste fluid calculated by the waste fluid quantity calculation unit.

Abstract: In one form of the present invention, the operation of reducing hard water to soft is controlled via integrated circuits and software. In combination as a computer control unit, the integrated circuits and software control a valve that supports the cycles used in softening water. The invention reduces the complexity of the setup and operation of a water softener using four simple keys in conjunction with the computer control unit. In addition to these four simple keys, a hidden key is also provided for internal use in manufacturing and servicing operations. The hidden key may have no graphic or identity on the interface panel of the computer control unit, or it may have some graphic not indicative of a key. When depressed along with other keys, this hidden key offers a way to access special operations such as data input and output.

Abstract: An electronic controller for controlling the fill, settle and draw operations of three settling tanks which are used with a reverse osmosis unit. The three settling tanks provide a pair of liquid level input signals which indicate the water level within each of the three settling tanks. A bounce eliminator circuit eliminates oscillations from the input signals, providing at its outputs steady state liquid level signals which are active low. The liquid level signals are supplied to a programmable logic device which has a state machine. The state machine sequentially controls the fill, draw and settle operations of the three settling tanks. The programmable logic device provides logic signals which are active low and which activate fill and draw valves associated with each of the three tanks.

Abstract: A water treatment apparatus for treating ozone with water is disclosed. A treatment carafe has a gas conduit so that off gases which accumulates in the carafe may be vented during a treatment cycle. The gas conduit conveys the off gas from the carafe to an ozone destructor via a passageway. An accumulator is provided in the passageway upstream from the destructor to hinder water entrained in the off gas from contacting and damaging the destructor.