Automatic Control Patents (Class 210/143)
  • Patent number: 7708889
    Abstract: A method used in connection with processing of blood components, wherein blood products are then filtered via a filter rotating along with a centrifuge rotor and the sensed pressure may be used in connection with controlling the pumping of the blood products and/or in connection with determining the location of an interface associated with the blood products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: CaridianBCT, Inc.
    Inventors: Niclas Högberg, Emanuel Hällgren, Peter Pihlstedt, Brian M. Holmes, Lars Persson, Lars Strandberg, Geert Van Waeg, Frank Corbin, III
  • Patent number: 7708898
    Abstract: A system for removing particles from a slurry tank includes a filtering device and a controller. The filtering device collects and removes particles deposited within the slurry tank and the controller controls the placement and movement of the filtering device with respect to the slurry tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Inventors: Mario P. Bochiechio, Gary M. Tamiso, David R. Scott, Mark F. Bartholomew
  • Publication number: 20100105888
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for separating a target radiolabelled compound from an impurity, apparatus for performing such a process and a removable cassette for use in such apparatus. Also provided are methods for using the target radiolabelled compound obtained by a method comprising the separating process of the invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Inventor: Mette Husbyn
  • Patent number: 7704383
    Abstract: A mobile fuel filter for removing sulfur-containing compounds from a diesel fuel is provided. The mobile fuel filter comprises: a filter median comprising an absorbent for removing sulfur-containing compounds from the diesel fuel, the filter median being in fluid communication with a storage device, the storage device having a holding capacity greater than 1000 gallons and being configured for storing the diesel fuel, the absorbent being configured to remove sulfur containing compounds from the diesel fuel to produce filtered diesel fuel having less than 15 ppm of sulfur containing compounds, the absorbent comprises an inorganic oxide having a surface acidity characterized by a pKa of at least ?3.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Honeywell Interational Inc.
    Inventors: Gary B. Zulauf, Ronald P. Rohrbach
  • Publication number: 20100096305
    Abstract: A wastewater treatment apparatus (10) includes one or more treatment tanks (12, 14). Each treatment tank (12, 14) has an associated oxygenation treatment circuit (18) including a gas and liquid mixing chamber (20), a gas injector (22) upstream of the mixing chamber (20) and one of an oxygen generator (24) or an ozone generator (26) supplying gas to the gas injector (22), and a pump (28, 29) for pumping wastewater from the treatment tank (12, 14) through the mixing chamber (20) and back to the treatment tank (28, 29).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2007
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicant: SEAIR INC.
    Inventors: Harold Kinasewich, Chris Kinasewich
  • Publication number: 20100096338
    Abstract: The invention discloses a management arrangement for a swimming pool. The arrangement includes a number of sensors being adapted to measure variables and generate input data relating to a swimming pool. The input data is processed by a processing unit to generate output data, which data is then used by an actuator to control equipment. Various operating parameters are programmable into the processing unit via an operator interface. The arrangement provides a combination of ultraviolet treatment and ion enrichment in order to disinfect or purify the water. The arrangement specifically regulates the ionization of the swimming pool water so as to substantially maintain a pre-determined ion concentration level with reduced operator intervention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Inventors: Riccardo Arthur De Wet, Daniel Alfonso Corte, Uwe Thuss
  • Patent number: 7699991
    Abstract: A conditioning process and equipment are provided for removing hardness from water circulated in a system. A sidestream from such system is routed to a reaction chamber and back to the system. A conditioner is added to the sidestream water and in some embodiments is routed through a sidestream inlet from the top of the reaction chamber to its lower portion in a swirling motion. A buffer is added to the sidestream exiting the reaction chamber, and in some embodiments is added upstream of a pH sensor. In some embodiments a polymer is added. A fluid bed develops in the reaction chamber consisting of conditioner, buffer, precipitated solids and sidestream water. An upper outlet on the reaction chamber regulates the height of the fluid bed, and a drain provides for periodic discharge of the lower fluid bed. In some embodiments, a corrosion inhibitor blend is pre-mixed with the buffer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Inventor: Samuel Rupert Owens
  • Patent number: 7699992
    Abstract: During a dialysis treatment carried out by a dialysis apparatus, in which a dialysis liquid is circulated to a clean dialysate filter (43) arranged before a dialyser (3), the conductivity of the dialysis liquid is altered according to an altering function that is a function of a mathematical model of the filter (43), in a way that will make the conductivity after the filter change more quickly. A conductivity cell (47), which is arranged after the dialyser, measures the conductivity of the spent dialysis liquid changed in response to said alteration. A control and computer system (52) evaluates the dialysance from said measured response. The conductivity can be changed for a comparatively short time period that is sufficient to allow reliable results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Gambro Lundia AB
    Inventor: Jan Peter Sternby
  • Patent number: 7699977
    Abstract: Wastewater and sewage filtering and adsorbing unit includes sewage reservoir, clean water reservoir, active coke powder storage, filtering and adsorbing tank, control cabinet, saturated active coke sludge settling tank, filtering and adsorbing material. The sewage reservoir and the clean water reservoir are on one side, and the filtering and adsorbing tank and the active coke powder storage are on other side. Active coke powder storage is above and connected to filtering and adsorbing tank by conduits; inlet pipes in rows and an outlet branch pipe are mounted into the filtering and adsorbing tank. Filtering and adsorbing material is active coke powder. The sewage reservoir is connected with the filtering and adsorbing tank. An active coke sludge discharge port and an active coke sludge conveyor, which are connected to the saturated active coke sludge settling tank by transporting pipelines, are at the bottom of the filtering and adsorbing tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Shenyang David Environmental Protection & Energy Saving Equipment Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Dawei Zhang, Yanbin Guo
  • Patent number: 7699993
    Abstract: Wireless methods for dispensing water supplied by a main purification unit to a remote dispensing device. The remote dispensing device is fluidly coupled with the main purification unit. A wireless transceiver is associated with the remote dispensing device and another wireless transceiver is associated with the main purification unit. The wireless transceivers communicate across a wireless communications link between the remote dispensing device and the main purification unit. The system may include multiple remote dispensing devices and/or multiple main purification units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Barnstead Thermolyne Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas Joseph Larkner
  • Patent number: 7699990
    Abstract: A separation analyzer for transferring solutions, while changing mixing ratios of the solutions, wherein a flow passage from a first pump, a flow passage from a second pump, and a passage for sample introduction section, the flow passages being connected, which further comprises a flow switching means for temporarily storing the solutions, whereby the flow switching means alternatively makes a first state for pushing out the solutions in a second sampling loop to the sample introduction section by the second pump, while transferring the solutions to the first sampling loop; and a second state for pushing out the solutions in the first sampling loop by the second pump, while transferring the solutions from the first pump to the second sampling loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Kisaburo Deguchi, Shinya Ito, Masahito Ito
  • Patent number: 7695613
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a chlorinator mounted inline in a water purification system having a housing having an inlet end and an outlet end and an upper compartment having an electronics section with a controller unit contained within the electronics section and in electrical communication with a power source and an at least one electrolytic plate. The system having a heat sink member in thermal communication with the controller, wherein the flow of the water in the water purification system cools the heat sink member and the controller unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: KBK Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin Doyle, Keith Schulte, Bruce Johnson
  • Publication number: 20100078385
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2008
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Inventors: Shigeki Kawarabata, Noriaki Nakagawa, Junya Fujii, Shogo Kamito
  • Patent number: 7686959
    Abstract: Provided are methods and apparatus for determining conditions for performing chromatography, particularly flash chromatography. The methods may be utilized for separating compounds in a sample in a column chromatography system. The method includes determining at least two retention factors corresponding to the TLC performance of a target compound and an adjacent compound and defining a sample loading amount and a solvent gradient profile using at least two solvents that will result in differential elution of the target and adjacent compounds from a chromatography column. The chromatography system and loading parameters may be selected to provide satisfactory separation of the target compound from adjacent compounds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Biotage AB
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Horsman, John R. Bickler
  • Patent number: 7674386
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: FLSmidth A/S
    Inventor: Steve C. Benesi
  • Patent number: 7674373
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for utilizing a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid for the purpose of remediation and retrieval of, e.g., spilled crude oil and other “oil spill”-related products from marine/aquatic and terrestrial environments. In some implementations, systems and apparatus are provided for applying a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid to a volume of spilled oil, and further having structure for collecting the spilled oil. Some implementations are environmentally-neutral. Substances other than oil may be remediated as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Ronald de Strulle
  • Patent number: 7670487
    Abstract: A depressurization process for a packed separation column is provided where the column system experiences a rapid and/or severe drop in pressure that could potentially damage column components. The process provides a safe de-pressurization of the column on the outlet side by decreasing the outlet pressure in controlled steps while allowing the inlet pressure of the column time to lower after each decreased step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventors: Edwin E. Wikfors, Kimber D. Fogelman
  • Patent number: 7670480
    Abstract: A supply flow path for supplying a solvent is described. The supply flow path includes metering devices each with a piston, the metering devices being adapted for metering the solvent through separate source paths feeding the supply flow path. The supply flow path further includes a control unit adapted for controlling the metering devices' piston movement in accordance with solvent pressure, wherein a variation of the solvent pressure gives rise to a corresponding variation of a solvent volume contained in the supply flow path or a part thereof. The control unit is adapted for compensating for the variation of the solvent volume by corresponding movements or forward or backward displacements of the pistons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Klaus Witt, Konstantin Choikhet, Alexander Bierbaum
  • Patent number: 7666300
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for denitrifying a solution that includes a denitrification tank configured to receive a portion of the solution for a period of time. Controlling an amount, duration and frequency of introduction of polyethylene glycol into the solution promotes indigenous heterotrophic bacteria depleting dissolved oxygen in the solution and obtaining oxygen from nitrate in the solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Hoot Aerobic Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Murphy J. Cormier, Ronald J. Suchecki, Jr., Robert K. Pertuit, Donald L. Brown, Troy L. Cormier
  • Publication number: 20100038292
    Abstract: An apparatus that combines desalination and pressure washing. The apparatus includes separate inlets for seawater and for freshwater. The apparatus includes a first diverter valve to selectively permit the flow of seawater or freshwater into the apparatus. The apparatus also contains a second diverter valve for directing the flow of seawater or freshwater to a pressure-washer outlet for pressure washing or directing the flow of seawater to a desalination assembly such as a reverse-osmosis (RO) membrane for desalination. The apparatus contains one or more pumps sufficient to generate fluid pressure for pressure washing and generating a driving pressure across the desalination assembly. A variable frequency drive system may be included in the apparatus to regulate the RO pump flow rate across a fixed orifice thereby regulating driving pressure and in turn the freshwater production rate from the RO system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2008
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Inventor: Jess Edward Fike
  • Publication number: 20100038318
    Abstract: A method of cleaning drilling fluid including providing a flow of drilling fluid to a treatment loop, determining a flow rate of the drilling fluid, and injecting a polymer into the drilling fluid based on the determined flow rate of the drilling fluid. Additionally, the method includes injecting a coagulant into the drilling fluid based on the determined flow rate of the drilling fluid and adjusting the rate of polymer and coagulant injection based on a change in the flow rate of the drilling fluid. Also, a method of controlling a drilling fluid cleaning system, the method including inputting a polymer dosage rate and a coagulant dosage rate into a system controller and providing instructions to the system controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2009
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Applicants: M-I L.L.C., M-I DRILLING FLUIDS CANADA, INC.
    Inventors: Alan Gilmour, Nicolas Christopher Wade Thiessen
  • Patent number: 7662280
    Abstract: A catch basin sealing system for closing a basin opening in a catch basin to inhibit contaminants from entering the catch basin includes a plurality of guide channels. Each of the guide channels is coupled to a bottom surface of a catch basin. The guide channels are positioned on opposing sides of a basin opening. A closing plate slidably engages the guide channels. The closing plate is slid from a first position adjacent the basin opening to a second position under the basin opening to close the basin opening and inhibit flow of liquid into the catch basin. A seal is coupled to an upper surface of the closing plate. The seal engages the catch basin around the basin opening to inhibit liquid flowing between the closing plate and the catch basin when the closing plate is positioned in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Inventor: John R. Cooney
  • Patent number: 7658855
    Abstract: A conditioning process and equipment are provided for removing hardness from water circulated in a system, such as an evaporative cooling system. A sidestream from such system is routed to a reaction chamber and back to the system. A conditioner is added to the sidestream water and in some embodiments is routed through a sidestream inlet from the top of the reaction chamber to its lower portion. A buffer is added to the sidestream exiting the reaction chamber, and in some embodiments is added upstream of a pH sensor. A fluid bed develops in the reaction chamber consisting of conditioner, buffer, precipitated solids and sidestream water. An upper outlet on the reaction chamber regulates the height of the fluid bed, and a drain provides for periodic discharge of the lower fluid bed. In another embodiment, a corrosion inhibitor blend is pre-mixed with the buffer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Inventor: Samuel Rupert Owens
  • Publication number: 20100025341
    Abstract: A fluid cleaning system including a fluid supply port, a fluid return port, an evaporator including an air intake vent and an air exhaust vent, a ventilation system connected to the evaporator, and a fluid line. The evaporator includes a ventilation air path through the evaporator and connected to the intake vent and the exhaust vent in the evaporator. The evaporator also includes an active airflow device located along the ventilation path. The fluid line connects the evaporator between the fluid supply port and the fluid return port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2009
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Applicant: Oil Purification Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William Lawrence Priest, Gregory Allen Slawson
  • Publication number: 20100021778
    Abstract: Fuel cell emergency power systems comprising a fuel cell having an anode and a cathode, a power distribution unit for selectively directing electrical current from the fuel cell to one or more consuming device, a hydrogen gas control system and an oxygen gas control system. The hydrogen gas control system includes a pressurized hydrogen tank providing hydrogen gas in selective fluid communication to the anode, a hydrogen gas-liquid water phase separator in downstream fluid communication with the anode, and a hydrogen recirculation pump for recirculating substantially liquid water-free hydrogen from the hydrogen gas-liquid water phase separator to the anode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2009
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Applicant: Lynntech, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeremy D. Steinshnider, Mark J. Flushe, Oliver J. Murphy
  • Patent number: 7651608
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for denitrification of treated wastewater from an aerobic wastewater treatment system in which oxygen levels in the aeration chamber of an aerobic digestion vessel are cycled between an anoxic environment, i.e., when the treated wastewater in the aeration vessel contains from just above 0 to just less than 1 ppm dissolved oxygen to an aerobic environment wherein the treated wastewater in the aeration vessel has a dissolved oxygen content of about 1 ppm or higher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Inventor: Jerry L. McKinney
  • Patent number: 7645378
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for utilizing a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid for the purpose of remediation and retrieval of, e.g., spilled crude oil and other “oil spill”-related products from marine/aquatic and terrestrial environments. In some implementations, systems and apparatus are provided for applying a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid to a volume of spilled oil, and further having structure for collecting the spilled oil. Some implementations are environmentally-neutral. Substances other than oil may be remediated as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Inventor: Ronald de Strulle
  • Patent number: 7645385
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for processing nitrogen-concentrated effluents by ammonia oxidation into nitrites followed by nitrite denitritation in a gaseous nitrogen in a sequential biological reactor (1) consisting in pouring a processable effluent volume in to the reactor by successive volume fractions, in dividing the entire processing cycle into successive sub cycles, wherein each sub-cycle comprises a feeding phase, an aeration phase for nitrification and an anoxia phase along which a carbon-containing source is introduced into the reactor for converting nitrites into nitrogen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignees: Suez Environment, Degremont
    Inventors: Samuel Martin, Adriana Gonzalez Ospina
  • Patent number: 7645388
    Abstract: A liquid sample is prepared at a preparation site and then processed, e.g. in an HPLC column. The sample is prepared and conveyed to the device at a flow rate which is substantially less than the flow rate through the device. The different flow rates are preferably provided by variable rate working fluid supplies which drive the sample from the preparation site and through the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Eksigent Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David W. Neyer, David J. Rakestraw, Jason E. Rehm
  • Patent number: 7641791
    Abstract: A control system comprising a timer based controller and a valve wherein the timer-based controller has a fixed period and the timer based controller regularly cycles the valve between a first condition and a second condition with the first portion of the cycle directing a first flow of water through a dispensable material and the remaining portion of the cycle directing a lesser flow of water through the dispensable material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: King Technology
    Inventors: Joseph A. King, Jeffrey D. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20090314721
    Abstract: A mechanism in a horizontal belt filter controls the position of the drainage belt to ensure its alignment with the vacuum pan. A section of belt rollers supporting the drainage belt is mounted on a movable structure capable of shifting the rollers laterally to the degree necessary to compensate for misalignments between the drain holes and the vacuum pan. The control operation is implemented with a detector capable of sensing the position of the drain holes in the belt with respect to the vacuum pan. A signal is sent to an actuator that causes the belt rollers to move laterally in the direction required to maintain alignment of the drain holes with the vacuum pan. A dual-drive system is preferably utilized to provide a more uniform force distribution along the drive pulley and to increase torque, thereby also advantageously increasing the capacity of the filter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2008
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Inventors: Joseph L. Wood, Jay L. Breinholt, Brandon G. Rose
  • Patent number: 7635433
    Abstract: In a system and method for feature alignment in chromatographic systems, the system runs a first sample through a first separation column. The system determines a first set of features for the first sample run. The system runs a second sample through a second separation column and detects a second set of features for the second sample run. The system estimates a systematic shift in features between the first sample run through the first separation column and the second sample run through the second separation column. The system adjusts the second set of features detected for the second sample run through the second separation column based on the estimated systematic shift to obtain a third set of adjusted features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2009
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Xiangdong Don Li
  • Publication number: 20090308736
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for separating different polynucleotide populations in a mixture are provided, wherein different polynucleotides or polynucleotide populations are captured on different solid support. After hybridization, polynucleotides are selectively released from a selected support by altering a physical property of that support. The released polynucleotides can be eluted from a common flow path and isolated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Applicant: LIFE TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION, a Delaware Corporation
    Inventors: Janice G. Shigeura, Jer-Kang Chen, John Shigeura
  • Patent number: 7632410
    Abstract: A method of producing safe drinking water from virtually any water source utilizing a water purification system is disclosed. The method includes a combination of water purification methods with a control system that evaluates water quality and functional processing parameters, such as pressure and flow. The control system determines what water processing methods to utilize and how most efficiently to operate them. The system is capable of treating highly contaminated water to the necessary degree to produce safe drinking water. Furthermore, the system regulates and cleans itself to maintain functionality despite receiving high concentrations of various contaminants from the feed water source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Inventor: Christopher Heiss
  • Patent number: 7632402
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: King Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph A. King, Jeffrey D. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20090304868
    Abstract: Controlled release potability additive compositions for use in potable water systems include a core containing at least one potability additive component and a polymeric coating. Controlled release systems for releasing potability additive components into potable water systems are also provided. Methods of using such compositions and systems to benefit potability of water in potable water systems, for example, drinking water systems, are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: Dober Chemical Corporation
    Inventors: Magesh Sundaram, David Alan Little
  • Patent number: 7628911
    Abstract: A gutter member includes an inlet operatively coupled to a gutter trough. The inlet is configured to receive matter such as water and non-water matter from the gutter trough. The gutter member further includes an outlet operatively coupled to a top of a downspout. The outlet is configured to pass water to the downspout. The gutter member further includes a reservoir configured to collect non-water matter. The reservoir is located between the inlet and the outlet and is lower than the gutter trough relative to the earth. The reservoir includes an exit port door configured to move between a first position in which a substantial amount of the non-water matter is retained in the reservoir and a second position in which the non-water matter is released from the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Inventors: Thomas William Koenig, Michael Thomas Koenig
  • Publication number: 20090294342
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a household water purification device, comprising electrically driven water purification means, an inlet for contaminated water, which inlet is in fluid communication with the water purification means and is connected to the water supply system when the device is operational, an outlet for dispensing purified water, which outlet is in fluid communication with the water purification means, water flowing from the inlet to the outlet via the water purification means in operational conditions, wherein said device further comprises a closing unit for interrupting the flow of water, a sensor that senses the availability water supply, and control means that controls the closing unit and the water purification means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: Wilhelmus H.M. Bruggink, Narendra N. Pawar
  • Publication number: 20090294339
    Abstract: A peritoneal dialysis machine includes an enclosure; dialysate pump located within the enclosure; a graphical user interface connected to the enclosure and configured to display a parameter associated with the dialysate pump; and a projector configured to project the parameter onto a surface external from the enclosure so as to allow a patient to readily view the parameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Applicants: BAXTER INTERNATIONAL INC., BAXTER HEALTHCARE S.A.
    Inventors: John A. Biewer, Andrey Kopychev, Merrick F. Kossack, Philip J. D'Almada Remedios
  • Patent number: 7622037
    Abstract: The invention features an apparatus and a method for supplying ozonated water to more than one process tool. Ozonated water of a first concentration received from an ozonated water generator and water received from a source are mixed to produce ozonated water of a second concentration. The ozonated water of a second concentration is supplied to a first process tool. Ozonated water from the ozonated water generator is supplied to a second process tool while supplying the ozonated water of the second concentration to the first process tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: MKS Instruments, Inc.
    Inventors: Jens Fittkau, Johannes Seiwert, Christiane Gottschalk
  • Patent number: 7618542
    Abstract: A blood purifying apparatus particularly suitable for continuous blood purification, and a method of controlling the same whereby the weight of body fluid removed from a patient and a feed weight to the patient can be more accurately controlled. A blood purifying apparatus 50 adapted for the continuous blood purification includes a drain C, a dialysate feed A, and a replacement fluid feed B, which are equipped with transfer pumps 5, 6, 7, respectively, reservoir containers 8, 9, and 10, respectively, that are capable of storing a predetermined volume, and fluid level sensors 11, 12, and 13, respectively. The blood purifying apparatus further includes a single weightmeter 20 capable of measuring the reservoir containers 8, 9, and 10 all at the same time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Asahi Kasei Medical Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Soichirou Okazaki
  • Publication number: 20090277841
    Abstract: This invention is an improved process for operation of evaporative recirculating cooling systems. In addition to reducing the scaling and corrosive tendencies of the water, the method eliminates or reduces discharge from the system without creating any localized corrosive or scaling conditions as a result of the treatment process. The described measurement and control system generally comprises an array of measurements, a means of implementing control logic, and an array of control actions including activating an ion exchange device to treat makeup water. The measurements can include of physical measurements of flow rates, chemical measurements of water composition, and performance-related metrics such as water corrosiveness or scaling tendency. Preferably, the measurements include one or more of pH, conductivity, hardness, alkalinity, corrosiveness, scaling tendency, treatment additive dosage level, and treatment additive residual of the makeup, treated makeup, and recirculating water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2008
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Inventors: Donald A. Johnson, Arthur J. Kahaian
  • Patent number: 7604732
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for utilizing a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid for the purpose of remediation and retrieval of, e.g., spilled crude oil and other “oil spill”-related products from marine/aquatic and terrestrial environments. In some implementations, systems and apparatus are provided for applying a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid to a volume of spilled oil, and further having structure for collecting the spilled oil. Some implementations are environmentally-neutral. Substances other than oil may be remediated as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald de Strulle
  • Patent number: 7601257
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for utilizing a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid for the purpose of remediation and retrieval of, e.g., spilled crude oil and other “oil spill”-related products from marine/aquatic and terrestrial environments. In some implementations, systems and apparatus are provided for applying a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid to a volume of spilled oil, and further having structure for collecting the spilled oil. Some implementations are environmentally-neutral. Substances other than oil may be remediated as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald de Strulle
  • Publication number: 20090250385
    Abstract: Sludge dewatering apparatus includes an inflatable membrane to press solids against a screen and thereby separate liquid therefrom, and nozzles to wash the screen of the separated solids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2009
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventor: Eitan SHARIR
  • Patent number: 7597800
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for utilizing a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid for the purpose of remediation and retrieval of, e.g., spilled crude oil and other “oil spill”-related products from marine/aquatic and terrestrial environments. In some implementations, systems and apparatus are provided for applying a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid to a volume of spilled oil, and further having structure for collecting the spilled oil. Some implementations are environmentally-neutral. Substances other than oil may be remediated as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald de Strulle
  • Patent number: 7597799
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for utilizing a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid for the purpose of remediation and retrieval of, e.g., spilled crude oil and other “oil spill”-related products from marine/aquatic and terrestrial environments. In some implementations, systems and apparatus are provided for applying a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid to a volume of spilled oil, and further having structure for collecting the spilled oil. Some implementations are environmentally-neutral. Substances other than oil may be remediated as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald de Strulle
  • Patent number: 7594999
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for chromatographically analyzing each of a plurality of samples in detector, comprising an autosampler to contain a plurality of samples for chromatographic analysis and a plurality of chromatographic systems, each system comprising one or more pumps and one or more chromatography columns. A detector is included for detecting compounds in the samples from each of the chromatography systems along with a valve positioned between the detector and the plurality of chromatography systems, the valve permitting each sample to reach the detector in sequence. A computer control device is included which adjusts the introduction of samples from the autosampler into the plurality of chromatography systems as well as the position of the valve to sequentially separate and deliver compounds within the samples to the detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Assignee: Cohesive Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: John E. Brann
  • Publication number: 20090230060
    Abstract: In an axial-flow cylindrical preparative chromatography column that utilizes a piston to close off the top of the resin space inside the column and thereby eliminate void spaces at the top of the resin, one or more proximity detectors are incorporated in the piston head to either generate a signal indicating the proximity of the piston had to the resin, or to collect a signal, such as a optical signal, emitted from the resin. The value of the signal or any change in the signal is compared to a threshold value to ascertain when the piston head is in proximity to the resin so that the motion of the piston toward the resin can be halted before contact pressure from the piston head damages the resin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2009
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: BIO-RAD LABORATORIES, INC.
    Inventors: Mark A. Snyder, Ken Baker, Christopher Moran
  • Patent number: 7585410
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for utilizing a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid for the purpose of remediation and retrieval of, e.g., spilled crude oil and other “oil spill”-related products from marine/aquatic and terrestrial environments. In some implementations, systems and apparatus are provided for applying a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid to a volume of spilled oil, and further having structure for collecting the spilled oil. Some implementations are environmentally-neutral. Substances other than oil may be remediated as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald de Strulle