With Program Actuator Patents (Class 210/141)
  • Patent number: 6159359
    Abstract: A modular filter apparatus is formed from stacked filter modules. Slurry to be filtered flows into the apparatus through a flowmeter and check valve into a header. The flow of slurry then branches off through feeders to each of the filter modules. Connected to the header is a slurry supply source, a cakewash supply source and a header drain. The modules are coupled to a hydraulic jack mechanism and an upper strongback.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventor: Steve C. Benesi
  • Patent number: 6126815
    Abstract: Sequential DAF apparatus and methods providing zero pool and nonmechanical waste material removal are disclosed which include a number of floatation tanks each arranged to operate either independently or sequentially, each tank has a conical shaped bottom with a centrally located port at the lowest vertical position of the tank, each tank is fitted with a number of valves and plumbing which allows an operator to fill each tank with waste water charged with dissolved air through the central port which is then retained during a floatation period to allowed waste material to separate from clarified water in the tank. Clarified water and waste material is removed from the bottom of the tank through the central port. Water clarity sensors are positioned in the tank near the central port. A final rinsing step may be included to assure all floated material is removed from the tank before refilling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Inventor: Maher I. Kelada
  • Patent number: 6090294
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for the purification of contaminated water whereby the contamination level of the wastewater is automatically monitored and treatment self-adjusted and continued until the desired level of purification is reached. Specifically, if upon treatment a pre-set purification level is not obtained a water recycle control means completely precludes the uptake of additional contaminated water and recycles wastewater within the apparatus until the desired level of purification is obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: AJT & Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Alfredo J. Teran, John R. Derrick, Jr., Nidal A. Samad, W. Todd Willoughby, Igor A. Vassiliev, Louis V. Mangiacapra, Carlos V. Diaz
  • Patent number: 6027638
    Abstract: An improved automatic filtration and extraction device is disclosed which comprises a base defining at a top end a cavity area which tapers downwardly and inwardly from the top end to define a chamber for a portion and then defines a plurality of effluent outlets at the bottom end each extending from the chamber to an outer surface of the body. Seals are adapted to each of the effluent outlets and are moveable between a first closed position sealing the effluent outlet and a second open position to allow the passage of effluent through the effluent outlet. A filter is detachably and removably adapted over the cavity area. Various solvents are provided to the cavity area through a solvent provider. A circuit with programmable memory accesses and directs a sequence of events after an initial event. A vacuum connected to each of the effluent outlets each induces effluent flow through an effluent outlet while sealing all other outlets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Inventor: Robert S. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6007721
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for regulation of aeration in a biological filter of the type comprising conveyance means (3) bringing water to be filtered into the lower part of the filter, a filter bed (2) acting as a support to the biomass, means of distributing an oxygenated gas (5, 5a) in the filter bed (2), a layer of filtered water (7) above the said filter bed, a nozzle for (4) of discharging the filtered water in the upper part of the filter, characterized in that it consists of taking account of the efficiency Ct with which the biomass uses the distributed oxygen to regulate the said distributed oxygenated gas flow and/or its concentration in molecular oxygen, in order to optimize the quantity of molecular oxygen distributed by the said distribution means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: Omnium de Traitement et de Valorisation (OTV)
    Inventors: Michele Payraudeau, Arnaud Gisclon
  • Patent number: 6001244
    Abstract: The invention relates to a new water purification system design that uses reverse osmosis membrane filtration and optional ultra violet light treatment. The new system creates the potential for achieving a higher standard of performance for point-of-use reverse osmosis systems. The system provides for a multiple pass, multiple barrier method for delivering freshly treated, high-quality water from the system. A microprocessor controlled operating system maintains the system within a narrow range of optimal performance at all times. The system provides for two water storage tanks, each equipped with its own pump. With an operating system sequence of alternating flow cycles, an internal state of continuous water movement and dynamic treatment is created and maintained within the elements of the system. The system dynamics contribute to microbial control throughout the system. The system incorporates cross flow filtration in all elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Anthony Pipes
    Inventors: Edwin Christopher Salter, Anthony Pipes
  • Patent number: 5900139
    Abstract: A filter press for reducing the water content in a starting material including a pressure chamber with a stationary lower plate and five hydraulically mobile chamber walls for applying pressure to the starting material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Assignee: Maschinenfabrik J. Dieffenbacher GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Friedrich B. Bielfeldt
  • Patent number: 5879559
    Abstract: A control unit for operating a valve system in a water conditioner system includes a drive motor having an output shaft coupled to the valve system, a valve position slide switch, an electronic regeneration controller, and a settable mechanical clock. The electronic controller can be programmed by the use of electrical jumpers/dip switches/control knobs. As the drive motor drives the output shaft coupled to the valve system, the drive motor also contemporaneously rotates a dual lead screw in the valve position slide switch. The dual lead screw drives an electrical contactor along a series of electrical contacts in a closed loop fashion. Each of the discrete electrical contacts corresponds to a position of the valve. The electronic controller controls the position of the valve in accordance with dwell times programmed into the electronic controller. If a demand regeneration scheme is desirable, a hardness setting rotary potentiometer can be used to provide analog electrical control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Assignee: Erie Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Michael R. Schreiner, Sheldon P. Carr, Nick W. Buettner
  • Patent number: 5866002
    Abstract: This invention provides an apparatus for activation of a digesting agent for an organic material, the apparatus including a tank, a device for activating the digesting agent in the tank, and a device for enabling the activated digesting agent to contact the organic material. The activating device is preferably a heating element. The enabling device is preferably an exit pipe. The invention has particular application in the preventative maintenance of a grease trap drainage system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Assignee: Ivan William Yates
    Inventors: Ivan William Yates, Dermot Joseph McElroy
  • Patent number: 5772867
    Abstract: A fluid filtering machine is provided with a filtering membrane made up of filtering substance that collects on a filtering core in a filtering tank and is controlled by a programmable logic controller. The machine includes a raw water tank, a purified water tank, a primary debris strainer, a working pump, a filtering substance supplying tank, the filtering tank, a concentrated debris tank and the programmable logic controller. Wherein the combination of the above mentioned components with input from pressure switches, each of a number of solenoids and an actuating rod actuated by a motor can be accurately and precisely controlled by the controller to control flow through set procedures of machine operation. The procedures include filtering, retro-cleaning, formation of the filtering membrane and supplying of the filtering substance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Inventors: Hsu-Hsin Chiang, Jusuf-Utomo Du
  • Patent number: 5753105
    Abstract: An improved automatic filtration and extraction device is disclosed which comprises a base 17 defining at a top end a broadened cavity area which tapers downwardly and inwardly from the top end to define a chamber for a portion and then defines a plurality of effluent outlets at the bottom end each extending from the chamber to an outer surface of the body. Sealers 42 are adapted to each of the effluent outlets and are moveable between a first closed position sealing the effluent outlet and a second open position to allow the passage of effluent through the effluent outlet. A filter 110 is detachably and removeably adapted over the broadened cavity area. A solvent provider 90 is adapted to the base whereby various solvents are provided to the broadened cavity area. A circuit 200 is connected at one end to a power source, and the programmable memory to access and direct the sequence of events after an initial event. A programmable memory is provided for a sequence of events and is connected to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Inventor: Robert S. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5665226
    Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide a substance collecting apparatus for a precipitation classifying device which is capable of automatically transmitting the classified substances to a next process in a sterile atmosphere even during a substance classifying operation is being performed, and in order to attain the object, the substance collecting apparatus comprises a pipe 15 whose one end is connected with a partitioned part 6 of a classifying tank side by way of a first electrovalve, while the other end is diverged into two ways, one of which is connected with a liquid-substance separating tube and having a third electrovalve 23 in the halfway thereof, whereas the other is connected with an exhausting side of a pump 24 and having a second electrovalve 22. The intake side of the pump 24 is further connected with a liquid reservoir tank 25, having in the halfway of the first pipe 15 a liquid flux regulating valve 32.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1997
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventor: Yugo Nishiyama
  • Patent number: 5665225
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for separating liquids and solids. An endless filter belt is used, beneath which a suction box is placed which can generate underpressure relative to the ambient pressure. The suction box is bounded on at least one of the sides by a stationary underpressure box, wherein the suction box is provided with a connecting element co-acting with the underpressure box. This enables embodying of the connection between the suction box and this underpressure box without for example rubber connecting hoses. This is important because rubber material cannot for instance withstand high temperatures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1997
    Assignee: Pannevis B.V.
    Inventors: Alphons Arnoldus Johannes Antonius Prinssen, Karel Antoon Thissen
  • Patent number: 5660727
    Abstract: An apparatus for automated extraction of an analyte from a sample positioned in a sample containment cell having a fluid passageway structure for communication of an extraction fluid to and from the cavity of the cell. The apparatus includes a loading tray, an oven assembly mounted proximate the loading tray, a fluid communication assembly mounted proximate the tray, a cell manipulation assembly and a controller. The cell manipulation assembly brings an inlet conduit and an outlet conduit of the fluid communication assembly into sealed relationship with the sample containment cell and uses the conduits to pick up and move the cell to and from the cell tray and oven assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1997
    Assignee: Dionex Corporation
    Inventors: Gary L. Gleave, Norman J. Rothe, David W. Kemp, Bruce E. Richter, John L. Ezzell
  • Patent number: 5650064
    Abstract: An automatic device for the regeneration of a bed of ion-exchanging resins s constituted by a valve body internally provided with two communicating seats, in whose inside pistons which are caused to move by a couple of cams keyed on a motor-shaft slide. The valve body is provided with openings, alternately intercepted by the pistons, to realize different flows of the fluid. In running conditions, water passes through a tank containing a bed of ion-exchanging resins, whose regeneration takes place in counter-current with solutions of sodium salts. This operating stage and the following one of resin washing are carried out according to an automatic sequence by way of cams, which act on the piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1997
    Assignee: S.I.A.T.A. Societa' Italiana Apparecchiature Trattamento Acque S.p.A.
    Inventor: Luigi Ferrali
  • Patent number: 5624549
    Abstract: Apparatus for partial dewatering of raw sludge, includes at least two filter units each defining a filter chamber which receives raw sludge and has an outer wall surface formed as filter for discharge of filtrate from raw sludge. Accommodated within the filter chamber is a double-acting plunger which extends across the entire cross section for dividing the filter chamber in two working chambers, and reciprocates in the filter chamber along the inside wall surface for movement between a first end position and a second end position, with each working chamber having an inlet for receiving raw sludge from a suitable conveying unit and an outlet for discharge of partially dewatered raw sludge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1997
    Assignee: Muller Umwelttechnik GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Dirk Herzog, Wolfgang Muller
  • Patent number: 5622617
    Abstract: A garbage treating apparatus for highly efficient garbage treatment without loss in required energy nor requiring continuous control of the treatment is provided by constituting the apparatus for accommodating within a treating vessel a fermentative garbage decomposing agent carrying a microparasite and the garbage, and mixing them for a fermentative decomposing treatment of the garbage through one of a plurality of treating modes mutually selectably changed over in response to sensed moisture content of the resulting garbage mixture sensed by a moisture sensing mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 22, 1997
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd
    Inventors: Harushige Tsusaka, Tomisaburo Azuma, Susumu Kawakami, Hidehiko Kishie, Kaoru Yamashita, Hiroyasu Kawanishi, Kenji Esashi, Koichi Fujita, Yoshihide Yoshikawa, Masakatsu Nakamura, Hideki Minoura, Hideo Fujimoto, Masanori Koyamoto, Tadashi Yoshimura, Etsuko Kajita
  • Patent number: 5616240
    Abstract: In a method and a device for sewage purification, sewage is purified by continuously passing it through several stages of treatment, wherein the passage of sewage is regulated by a process control device and is monitored by sensors. Treatment ensues in physical processing stages, pre-flotation stages, two-step biological clarification stages and one post-flotation stage. The pre-flotation stages as well as the biological clarification stages are each provided with gas-water mixers, and the pre-flotation stages, the biological clarification stages and the post-flotation stage are provided with solid foam separators having outlet channels. Clear water from a clear water overflow basin is supplied to the individual stages through the gas-water mixers and through a clear water return pipe. It is also possible to provide chemical treatment prior to biological clearing, to provide clear water recycling for additional treatment, and to provide solids treatment and a reduction stage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 1, 1997
    Inventor: Uwe Sonnenrein
  • Patent number: 5554276
    Abstract: A system automated for providing at least periodic removal of metal ions and contaminants from a chemical bath, consists of a microprocessor programmed for controlling fluid circuits of pumps and valves, for in one state of operation circulating a first predetermined quantity of the chemical bath from a first tank, through an ion exchange column, and back to the first tank; for in a second state of operation circulating deigned water from a second tank into the IEX column for displacing residual chemical bath therefrom for return to the first tank; for in a third state of operation circulating deigned water through the IEX column, and discharging the rinse water from a waste port; for in a fourth state of operation circulating regenerate acid through the ion exchange column, and discharging the used acid from a waste port; for in a fifth state of operation circulating deionized water through the IEX column for rinsing acid regenerate therefrom and discharging the same out of a waste port; and for in a sixth s
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1996
    Assignee: Henkel Corporation
    Inventors: William G. Kozak, Joseph C. Topping
  • Patent number: 5544072
    Abstract: A demand initiated method for regenerating a water softener which operates the softener ion exchange bed over a capacity range in which the resin is most efficiently restored by exposure to brine. The reserve capacity of the softener is adjusted in response to the amount of softening capacity used since the last regeneration, as is the quantity of saturated brine to be used for the next regeneration, which is scheduled when the reserve capacity is exceeded, or the remaining available capacity will not be adequate for normal usage on the next day of the week.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1996
    Assignee: Ecowater Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Zimmerman, Gary Gauer, Dave Marshall
  • Patent number: 5534142
    Abstract: Apparatus for use in a multi-stage system in which a fluid being treated is passed in succession through a first stage A, a second stage B, a third stage C, etc. includes a controlled system of valved interconnections that permits the direction of flow within each stage to be reversed while preserving the original sequence ABC . . . in which the fluid progresses from stage to stage. The stages may be reaction chambers in which chemical or photo-chemical reactions are carried out or the stages may be filters that need to be reverse-flushed at intervals. In accordance with the invention, a second set of inter-stage connections is provided, in addition to the original connections used for forward flow. In the second set, the inlet and outlet ports are located at opposite ends of each stage from the inlet and outlet ports used in the original connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1996
    Assignee: Vulcan Peroxidation Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick E. Bernardin, Ronald L. Peterson
  • Patent number: 5501792
    Abstract: An energy and water conservation laundry mechanism which includes a plurality of automatic washing machines, a rinse water storage tank, plumbing which connects the storage tank to the each of the washing machines, and electrical controls which are tied into the existing control circuitry of the washing machines for selectively directing the flow of rinse water between the storage tank and the washing machines. The plumbing includes pumps and valves which enables rinse water, as stored in the storage tank, to be delivered to each washing machine at the beginning of a wash cycle and waste water from the wash cycle to be discharged into a conventional sewer line. Rinse water from each washing machine at the end of each rinse cycle, is pumped to the storage tank for reuse for subsequent wash cycles of the machines. The invention also includes a filter for the rinse water which includes a toroidal shape filter element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Assignee: Hydrokinetics, Inc.
    Inventor: John D. Carroll, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5490932
    Abstract: A control valve for a water treatment system which includes a turbine rotatably mounted within a water receiving chamber. A pair of nozzles communicate water from a water receiving chamber to the turbine in a driving relationship. The nozzles each define a passage, preferably converging slightly in cross-section and defining centerlines that converge and intersect at a region swept by the turbine. Preferably, the intersection of the centerlines occurs intermediate a circle defined by central regions of the turbine blades and a circle defined by peripheral edges of the turbine blades. At least one of the nozzles is slidably held in a slot formed in a dividing wall forming part of the control valve and is replaceable by a plug. A confronting surface defines a uniform gap between an outlet side of the nozzles and a peripheral portion of the turbine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 13, 1996
    Assignee: Kinetico Incorporated
    Inventors: Christopher L. Hansen, Stuart L. Park
  • Patent number: 5464530
    Abstract: An ion exchanger of the countercurrent type includes a pressure vessel for supporting a resin bed. The vessel includes a first port through which water to be treated is supplied to the vessel during a production cycle, a second port through which regenerant is supplied to the vessel during a regenerant cycle, and a third port located intermediate of the first and second ports and connected to a lower in-bed distributor located within the vessel. A recycling loop is provided between the third port and the first port for recycling regenerant during at least a portion of the regeneration cycle. An upper in-bed distributor is located within the vessel slightly above the lower in-bed distributor and has an associated fourth port through which waste regenerant is removed from the vessel during the regeneration cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 7, 1995
    Inventor: Lewis E. Stivers
  • Patent number: 5417847
    Abstract: A pervaporation apparatus and process adapted to handle a diverse range of feed stream compositions and volumes. The apparatus includes a pervaporation unit and condenser, one or more tanks and a control system to direct liquid flows within the apparatus according to the chosen processing scheme. The apparatus and process can achieve separation performance comparable to a one-stage, two-stage, two-step or more complicated pervaporation system, including those in which two-phase permeates are produced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1995
    Assignee: Membrane Technology and Research, Inc.
    Inventors: Johannes G. Wijmans, Juergen Kaschemekat, Richard W. Baker
  • Patent number: 5413715
    Abstract: An ash scoop which remains out of the water during most of its operation. The ash scoop has a retaining and a nonretaining configuration. It moves along a track downward into the pit while poised in its nonretaining configuration. Once in the pit, it moves to its retaining position to grab debris within the pit. It then moves back out of the pit along the track until it reverts to its nonretaining configuration to dump the ashes dragged out of the pit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1995
    Inventor: John N. Basic, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5403498
    Abstract: This invention provides an automatically controllable water reuse system having, in combination, a) a reservoir for water to be reused, b) a switch for controlling the level of water in said reservoir, c) an electrically powered timing mechanism which controls in a timed relationship filtering and pumping apparatus which can be turned "on" by a water level switch in the reservoir. The timer, pumping, filtering, and valve control combination is timed to provide at least four modes of operation including first and second modes to clean moveable solids from first and second filters, a third mode to pump filtered water for reuse to end points of use, e.g. to a toilet water storage tank or to garden irrigation end points and a fourth mode providing either a rest period before beginning the water pumping, filtering, distribution cycle again or for manual operation of the apparatus to direct the water for reuse to a desired reuse endpoint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 4, 1995
    Assignee: Econeco Inc.
    Inventors: Alan P. Morrissey, James E. Bowers
  • Patent number: 5268111
    Abstract: A separation and reclamation apparatus for separating a first discrete-phase solids material from a fluid mixture including, in addition, a second discrete-phase solids material and a continuous-phase carrier fluid, has a unitary vessel having a discharge tank connected to a receiving tank and in fluid communication therewith through an opening on the bottom side wall of the receiving tank. The receiving tank both mixes and transports the mixture. A controller actuates a door over the opening for transport of the first discrete-phase solids material out of the receiving tank into the discharge tank via a conveyor having an open discharge end higher than the top of the receiving tank. The apparatus includes a pump arranged to intake material from the discharge tank from contents remaining in the vessel after removal of the first discrete-phase solids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1993
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Metz, Joel R. Metz, Lawrence J. Glendenning
  • Patent number: 5236595
    Abstract: An improved filtration system involving the use of ultraviolet irradiation, ozonation, chlorination, reactive filtration media, chemical treatment, compressed air aeration, air emission control, and central flow control is described. The process system and apparatus of the present invention mainly include a liquid pump, an ultraviolet pretreatment means, a central flow control, an air emission control means, a reactive pressure filter, a process tank, at least one chemical feeder means, an ultraviolet post-treatment means, and an aeration means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1993
    Assignee: International Environmental Systems, Inc., USA
    Inventors: Lawrence K. Wang, Lubomyr Kurylko, Mu H. S. Wang
  • Patent number: 5232584
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a multi-stage, single reactor, purification system for disinfecting, washing, and concentrating solid wastes, which include contaminated soil, highly concentrated biosolids, spent animal bedding, and spent diapers, etc.A solid waste is fed into the reactor of this invented apparatus. At least one disinfecting and chemical agent (including cationic surface active agent known as quaternary ammonium compound) is fed together with water (as needed) into this reactor to disinfect and process said solid waste with the assistance of a mechanical mixing means inside said reactor. A disinfecting gas is fed to the same reactor as needed. After the period of feeding, disinfecting, processing, and mixing is over, the process water is drained. The disinfected and processed wet solid waste is discharged to an expulsion chamber means which removes residual water and compacts the disinfected and processed solid waste.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1993
    Assignee: International Environmental Systems, Inc., USA
    Inventors: Lawrence K. Wang, Mu H. S. Wang
  • Patent number: 5213696
    Abstract: The present invention is an automatic filter cleaning system which includes a solvent dewaxing filter which removes wax from a wax mix slurry and provides a filtrate. Status control apparatus is connected to the filter for affecting the operational status of the filter. Drain apparatus responsive to a control signal controls draining of the filter. Cleaning apparatus is also connected to the filter. A control network connected to the status apparatus, the draining apparatus and the cleaning apparatus controls those apparatus in a manner so as to allow selective changing of the status of the filter from an operational state to a down state to automatically drain the filter and clean the filter while the filter is in the down state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1993
    Assignees: Star Enterprise, Texaco Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony J. Patrone, John D. Martin, Kevin Lyon, Charles W. Harrison
  • Patent number: 5207897
    Abstract: An automatic pumping system for removal of floating contaminants and oil and gasoline seepage from water wells. A vertically reciprocating cone-shaped member, like an inverted funnel, is moved between positions above and below the water surface. As it submerges, the inverted funnel collects the floating product within its circumference and transfers it to a collection space surrounding the cone. In the upper position, this collection space is sealed so that air may be blown into it while the collected product is driven out through a pickup tube to a collection sump for ultimate disposal. A second embodiment incorporates a hydraulic pumping system which operates in synchronism with the contamination collection and disposal system to create a cone of depression which draws the floating product into the space covered by the circumference of the reciprocating cone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1993
    Inventors: William E. Baird, Peter J. Tolan
  • Patent number: 5186821
    Abstract: A wastewater treatment system is disclosed which utilizes only one fiberglass tank which has no compartments but includes a first flow equalization collector surrounded by a cylindrical partition which vertially eliminates hydraulic turbulence and creates a pre-strat zone. A novel floating decanter is disclosed and programmable circuitry including timing of aeration, liquid levels and decanting processes with the results of producing a quality supernatent affluent heretofore unavailable in such a simple system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1993
    Assignee: D. Thomas Murphy
    Inventor: D. Thomas Murphy
  • Patent number: 5167836
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method for controlling a press filter, said press filter having electric motors for operating said press filter. At least one of said electric motors of said press filter is driven by a frequency filter. A logic control unit is used for sending a program-controlled analog signal to said frequency converter. The output current from said frequency converter having a frequency proportional to the magnitude of said analog signal received from said logic control unit is used for driving the press filter's electric motors, whose rotational speeds thereby become proportional to the drive current frequency. A desired electric motor is individually started by way of applying power to the motor via a switch element which is activated by a signal from the logic control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1992
    Assignee: Larox Oy
    Inventors: Mauno Kylliainen, Erkki Naatanen, Petri Saira
  • Patent number: 5167803
    Abstract: A mechanically cleaned bar screen or bar rack is disclosed for removing debris from water and wastewater treatment facilities which comprises a frame with housings supported thereon and a bar rack and dead plate. The apparatus is supported on the ledge of the sluice of a water or wastewater treatment facility tilted backward at an angle of about 0.degree.-30.degree. with the bar rack submerged in the flowing stream of water. A carriage carries a pivotally mounted rake assembly with a rake engaging the bar rack. The carriage is reciprocated along a guide rail by motor operated lead screws which extend through rollnut assemblies supporting the carriage. At the top of the traverse of the carriage, the rake is swept by a wiper to remove debris to discharge down a chute for pick up. The motorized drive system is totally enclosed. The motor and gear boxes are stationary and do not travel with the rake carriage. Corrosion resistant materials are used to ensure long life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1992
    Assignee: Envirofab, Incorporated
    Inventors: Kenneth G. Newton, Mark S. Butler, John C. Jacob, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5160435
    Abstract: A method and system for optimizing the operation of a trickling filter. Optimization is obtained by using a controlling device and a variable speed drive in combination. The drive motor rotates the distributor mechanism of the trickling filter in response to signals transmitted thereto by the controlling device. The signals received are either based on the influent flow rate or a pre-programmed system representing the above. In response to these signals, the speed of rotation of the distributor is continually varied to provide a SK value most conductive for (1) reducing the BOD and ammonia levels present in the wastewater influent, (2) removing excess bio-mass attached to the media used in the filter and (3) driving the organic food materials deeper into the bio-mass. SK values of between 5 to 100 mm/pass are used for normal operation and a SK of 100 to 1000 mm/pass for flushing during non-peak hours. An intermediate SK value is used to drive the organic feed deeper into the media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1992
    Inventor: Orris E. Albertson
  • Patent number: 5152895
    Abstract: In relation to time intervals or pressure loss, the successive flushing via the same flushing channel (10) of several filter elements (7) is brought about by the direct sweeping of the internal surface of said elements (7) by the fluid to be filtered. It comprises a tubular body (1) and an upstream distribution plate (4), each feeding a filter element (7) extending axially inside the body, and a downstream aperture. At its downstream end there is a distributor comprising several inlets linked to the downstream end of the elements (7), said inlets being linked by channels (22) to a single outlet, itself linked to a flushing branch pipe (8) opening laterally outside the body (1). This distributor comprises a rotor (18) which, depending on its angular position, separately connects each of its inlets to the shared outlet of distributor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1992
    Inventor: Charles Doucet
  • Patent number: 5104553
    Abstract: The filtering apparatus is used in combination with at least one analytical instrument, especially a particle analyzer and substantially comprises a controlled pump unit having an inlet side and an outlet side. The inlet side of the controlled pump unit is connected to a reservoir for a liquid medium to be filtered. The outlet side is connected to a filtering unit. An intermediate storage unit for intermediately storing the filtered liquid medium is connected to the filtering unit. The filtered liquid medium is fed to the analytical instrument from the intermediate storage unit which contains level detectors for detecting the liquid level in the intermediate storage unit. The level detectors are connected to a control unit for controlling the controlled pump unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1992
    Assignee: Oerlikon-Contraves AG
    Inventors: Adrian Lorenz, Heinz Scherrer
  • Patent number: 5074996
    Abstract: Improved bar screen raking systems are provided with telescopical boom members, forming the rake arm controlling displacement up and down, in combination with a hydraulic piston rod cylinder, controlling displacement in and out. In one embodiment the raking system includes a telescopical rake arm boom comprising a boom member supporting a bearing slide and ball carrier, a cam follower and track arrangement in fixed spaced apart parallel disposition on opposing sides along the length of said boom, a boom side member connected to said bearing and cam arrangements for carrying a rake, a hydraulic piston driven cable device fixedly supported by said boom and parallel to said bearing slide and cam follower arrangements for controlling boom displacement up and down and a hydraulic piston rod cylinder device for controlling boom displacement in and out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1991
    Assignee: Franklin Miller, Inc.
    Inventors: William B. Galanty, Joseph Kennedy
  • Patent number: 5045187
    Abstract: A regenerating control system for liquid conditioners includes ball valves positioned and sized so that they do not cause any flow restriction during the normal operation of the conditioner. The valves are operated by low voltage D.C. motors which require power only while moving the valves from one position to another position. An electronics control system and timer control the operation of the valves and require very small amounts of power. Consequently, a battery backup system can operate for extended periods of time when a commercial power outage occurs. A two-piece housing assembly provides improved seals for sealing between the two housing halves and between the housing assembly and the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1991
    Assignee: Essef Corporation
    Inventor: Steven C. Suchanek
  • Patent number: 5037541
    Abstract: A sanitary device for a sewerage channel with an openable grating includes a bottom plate and four side walls which together define a space therebetween for accommodating several filtering plates for filtering dirt or the like contained in the rain water which drains into the sewerage channel through the sanitary device. EAch of the four side walls has several apertures for passage of rain water to the sewerage channel. A first disinfecting container containing volatile disinfectant, such as mothballs, for cleaning the air inside the sewerage channel is attached to the side walls of the sanitary device. A hollow cylindrical tank is provided on an upper side of the bottom plate and extends upwards for receiving a second disinfecting container containing liquid disinfectant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1991
    Inventors: Shiau Ruey-Jang, Wu Teng-Tai
  • Patent number: 5022994
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a fluid treatment apparatus that includes a resin tank containing an ion exchange media. A control valve controls the regeneration cycle and includes a regeneration control turbine operatively connected to a regeneration control disk forming part of a servo system. During regeneration, a meter flow of fluid emitted by a regeneration control nozzle produces rotation in the turbine to effect a regeneration sequence. Regeneration is initiated by a regeneration initiating nozzle which emits a stream of fluid at the turbine for a predetermined time interval in order to initiate a regeneration cycle. A control system includes a sensor for monitoring the fluid quality level of the source fluid or the treated fluid and initiates regeneration. When the control system is used with the disclosed control valve, the control system communicates presssurized fluid to the regeneration initiating nozzle upon sensing a predetermined quality level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1991
    Assignee: Kinetico Incorporated
    Inventors: Norman R. Avery, Dale J. Spangenberg, Jr., Jimmy D. Buth, Kenneth C. Seuffer, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4921598
    Abstract: A central control valve arrangement for a water treatment system. The central control valve arrangement includes two independently positionable four-way ball valves and at least one of the balls of the ball valve serving as valve body includes with two L-shaped boreholes so that a multitude of couplings between the connections of the ball valves is possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 1, 1990
    Inventor: Kurt M. Desch
  • Patent number: 4911832
    Abstract: An apparatus for automatically treating a drain system to prevent or at least minimize clogging problems particularly in grease traps of the type provided in restaurants and other food preparation establishments. The apparatus includes a valve for directing fresh water into the grease trap for pretreating the trap in preparation for the injection of bioactive liquid cultures by the pump. The liquid cultures liquify and digest contaminants in the grease trap which are flushed therefrom by fresh water. The apparatus is controlled by a system which cyclically operates the apparatus in accordance with a preferred operational sequence and at adjustably variable time periods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 27, 1990
    Assignee: Grease Genie, Inc.
    Inventors: Adam C. Miller, Mitchell M. Hazar, William G. Harvey
  • Patent number: 4851113
    Abstract: A filter has an endless filter cloth, which passes under a slurry feed and over a suction box, through which suction is applied to the cloth to remove liquid from the slurry. The cloth is driven by a roller, around which the cloth is trained, linked to a motor. The operation of the motor is controlled by a central device so that the cloth is advanced incrementally, the length of advance of an increment being predetermined and selected to satisfy operating requirements. The control device can also provide for regular acceleration and deceleration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1989
    Assignee: Delfilt Limited
    Inventor: Stephen Evans
  • Patent number: 4808303
    Abstract: The present invention represents an automatic produce hydration system of improved efficiency and design. The system is self-contained, and adaptable for use in both pre-existing and new produce display racks. The system first includes a filter unit designed to remove foreign particulate materials from incoming water. In fluid communication with the filter unit is an automatic filter cleaning system for ejecting collected foreign particulate materials from the system at selected time intervals. After filtration, the water is introduced into a pressurization system. Once the pressure has been increased, pressurized water is delivered through an external water delivery line having a plurality of spray heads associated therewith. The spray heads have restriction means therein to ensure that a fine mist-like spray is delivered to the produce materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1986
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1989
    Assignee: Fractal, Inc.
    Inventors: Tim L. Edwards, James A. Aamodt
  • Patent number: 4695385
    Abstract: A dialysis reuse system for cleansing, sterilizing and testing a hemodialysis machine and its associated dialyzer and blood tubing set. The reuse control device automatically controls either the selected reuse cycle or dialyzer test cycle as desired. In the reuse cycle a proper solution of bleach, rinse water and formaldehyde disinfectant is flushed through the system for a prearranged time period and in proper sequence to completely cleanse and disinfect the entire dialysis system including the dialyzer and blood lines. At the end of the cycle, the system is isolated, leaving the disinfectant solution intact within the system to prevent bacteria growth and contamination. In the dialyzer test cycle, a dialyzer clearance test is automatically performed using the associated hemodialysis machine to test the condition of the dialyzer membrane prior to patient treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1985
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1987
    Assignee: Colorado Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: James T. Boag
  • Patent number: 4673493
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus of a fixed type for supplying filtered liquid which is able to filter liquid containing impurities of minute solid particles and then supply the filtered liquid while further filtering the same, said apparatus itself being of a fixed type, so designed that the liquid is repeatedly passed through a filter member provided within said apparatus for sufficient filtration, and at the same time, the liquid is filled in a movable container with rollers so as to be freely taken in or out of the apparatus in a completely purified condition, wherein the liquid in the movable container is transferred to fixed tanks, when the movable container is separated from the apparatus so as to be filled with fresh liquid, further to a discharge port through said filter member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1985
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1987
    Assignee: Kurashiki Boseki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Atsuki Wada, Mikio Takahashi, Eiji Suhara
  • Patent number: 4670138
    Abstract: Apparatus for controlling an infinitesimal flow rate of fluid comprises at least one filter means (3, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, . . . ) provided in a fluid passage and capable of setting to a predetermined filtration amount, thereby regulating the flow rate of the fluid by controlling fluid supply to said filter means. The present apparatus may be used in a vacuum processing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1985
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1987
    Assignee: Ulvac Service Corporation
    Inventor: Toru Yunoki
  • Patent number: 4654147
    Abstract: An automated control system for maintaining a supply of dissolved oxygen (DO) within a given range in each of a given plurality of pools for treating sewerage, farming fish, or the like, and energizing an alarm system (148 FIG. 1) which, when energized, will warn designated persons of the failure to maintain the amout of D.O. within the given range in a particular pool and with each pool comprising a first sensor for sensing the amount of D.O. in each pool, a settable indicator (146) for detecting, respectively, when the amount of D.O. drops below a first threshold and when the amount of D.O. drops below a second threshold, with both the first and second thresholds being selectively determinable by setting the indicator. Also provided is a communication link for transmitting the amount of D.O. to the indicators, a second sensor responsive to the amount of D.O. dropping below the first threshold (146) to energize the pool aerator (258 FIG. 3) to increase the amount of D.O.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1987
    Assignee: Automated Commercial Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: William A. Bagley