Electrical Insulating Or Electricity Discharging Patents (Class 210/243)
  • Patent number: 11644446
    Abstract: The present invention an apparatus and method of injecting a liquid borne sample into a field flow fractionator and a method of forming a top plate and spacer. In an embodiment, the field flow fractionation unit includes a top plate including a sample injection inlet port, a sample injection outlet port, and a spacer including a separation channel cavity defining at least a portion of the separation channel, a sample injection inlet cavity configured to be in fluid contact with the separation channel and located substantially beneath the sample injection inlet port, a sample injection outlet cavity configured to be in fluid contact with the separation channel and located substantially beneath the sample injection outlet port, such that the injection inlet and outlet paths are configured to define an injection channel that is essentially perpendicular to the length of the separation channel spanning the width of the separation channel cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2023
    Assignee: WYATT TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: Steven P. Trainoff
  • Patent number: 11642671
    Abstract: A method and system for performing biomolecule extraction are provided that use liquid-to-liquid extraction (LLE) in combination with an electrowetting on dielectric (EWOD) device to provide a biomolecule extraction solution that has high extraction efficiency and that is less costly and easier to use than current state of the art methods and systems. The system and method are well suited for, but not limited to, extraction of DNA, RNA and protein molecules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2022
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2023
    Assignee: Board of Regents, The University of Texas System
    Inventors: Hyejin Moon, Shubhodeep Paul
  • Patent number: 11583790
    Abstract: An anti-counterfeiting mechanism for a filter element to specifically, and preferably uniquely, identify a filter with a conductive pattern or path of conductive materials preferably either embedded (thin film circuit) under the surface, or over molded on, a portion of the filter. The conductive materials are preferably positioned at the filter end cap. The resistance of the filter element is an identifier that is preferably associated with the OEM manufacturer's labeling (such as product number) and/or other branding of the component. This electrical resistance signature permits rapid identification of counterfeit filters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: CUMMINS FILTRATION IP, INC.
    Inventors: Mark V. Holzmann, J. Bruce Schelkopf
  • Patent number: 11478796
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of performing an optical or electrical measurement in a sample of a disperse fluid, the sample comprising particles and a fluid. The method comprises the steps of: a) positioning the sample in a microfluidic cavity having a resonance frequency, b) subjecting the sample, in the cavity, to an acoustic standing wave configured for causing the particles to congregate in at least one first region of the cavity, thereby causing the fluid to occupy at least one second region of the cavity, wherein the frequency of the acoustic standing wave is varied between a frequency below the resonance frequency and a frequency above the resonance frequency, and c) performing an optical or electrical measurement in the fluid in at least one of the at least one second region of the cavity. Varying the frequency ensures reproducible results. The invention also relates to a system therefore and a method and system for measuring hematocrit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2022
    Assignees: ACOUSORT AB, INSTRUMENTATION LABORATORY COMPANY
    Inventors: Per Augustsson, Pelle Daniel Ohlsson, Ola Jakobsson, Klara Andersson, Gert Blankenstein, Josef Kerimo, Ethan Schonbrun
  • Patent number: 11471848
    Abstract: A universal chemical processor (UCP) including a reactor vessel with a main chamber, comprises inlets for feedstock, a fluidizing medium and reactants. The UCP further includes a reactive X-ray chemical processor (RXCP) having a large area hollow cylindrical cold cathode in the main chamber, a grid positioned concentrically with respect to the cathode, and an anode positioned concentrically with respect to the cathode and grid. In operation, when activated, the cathode of the RXCP emits electrodes onto the anode, which then emits X-rays into a radiation zone within the main chamber capable of ionizing feedstock and reactants, inducing chemical reactions, and sterilizing and decomposing organic materials within the radiation zone, and wherein, a fluidized bed is supported in the main chamber when the fluidizing medium and feedstock are supplied. The RXCP and the fluidized bed portions can be operated separately or in conjunction to achieve unanticipated results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2022
    Assignee: ADVANCED FUSION SYSTEMS LLC
    Inventors: Curtis Birnbach, William Joyce
  • Patent number: 11396468
    Abstract: A high salinity water purification system and process, including a forward osmosis system and a reverse osmosis or nanofiltration system. A concentrated brine of a zinc or iron complex combined with a salt or acid draws pure water across the FO membrane from the influent water. The diluted brine is pumped through a vessel holding an anionic adsorption media to remove the zinc or iron complex and the resultant brine is passed through the RO or nanofiltration system to obtain purified water and a concentrated brine stream. The adsorption media is regenerated by a rinse cycle using fresh water or water from the RO system, removing the zinc or iron complex adhered to the media. The resultant brine is stored and mixed with the output of the RO system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2022
    Assignee: Aphinity
    Inventor: Stephen M. Mosher
  • Patent number: 11352266
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and system for controlling disinfection in recirculating water systems and a method for retrofitting a recirculation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2022
    Assignee: Evoqua Water Technologies LLC
    Inventor: Wolfgang Kleiber
  • Patent number: 11040305
    Abstract: An apparatus that functions as an influent multiple passage reactor adaptable to simultaneously carry out a series of functions including effluent contaminant dissociation and molecular oxidation utilizing electrolytic and catalytic reactions is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a concentric outside that may be constructed of an electrically conductive material to serve as a first electrode. A smaller second concentric electrode mounted inside the outside housing may serve as a first cathode, with a third but smaller concentric electrode mounted inside the first cathode serving as a second anode, with yet a fourth but even smaller concentric electrode mounted inside the second anode serving as a second cathode and thereof (with additional anode/cathodes further included as desired). Between each electrode an influent passageway is formed with the series of electrodes and passageways stabilized by two slotted end caps which also serve to seal the apparatus housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2021
    Inventor: Michael Green
  • Patent number: 10828584
    Abstract: An end cap for a fuel filter includes a metal body with a first surface opposite a second surface. A hole extends through the first surface and the second surface of the body. A metal spring is connected to the first surface of the metal body and extends at least partially over the hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventor: William W. Butcka
  • Patent number: 10717869
    Abstract: A stabilised aqueous formazin composition comprises 100 parts by weight water; up to 0.03 parts by weight formazin polymer; 0.4 to 5 parts by weight hexamethylenetetramine; and a buffer composition, wherein the buffer composition is adjusted to maintain a pH of the formazin solution in a range between 8.4 and 10. The stabilised formazin composition has a turbidity of 400 NTU or less. A diluent for preparing the stabilised formazin composition from a formazin stock composition is provided, wherein the diluent comprises hexamethylenetetramine in a concentration of between 4 and 50 g/l and a buffer composition adjusted to a pH of the diluent in a range of from 8.4 to 10.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2020
    Assignee: TINTOMETER GMBH
    Inventor: Melanie J. Voss
  • Patent number: 10711300
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods, compositions, and systems for distributing molecules and complexes into reaction sites. In particular, the methods, compositions, and systems of the present invention result in an active loading of molecules and complexes into reaction sites with improved efficiency over loading by passive diffusion methods alone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2020
    Assignee: Pacific Biosciences of California, Inc.
    Inventors: Satwik Kamtekar, Keith Bjornson, Leewin Chern, Steven Lin
  • Patent number: 10646796
    Abstract: The present invention includes iterations of devices for absorbing water and hydrocarbons that accumulate in hydrocarbon handling and dispensing systems, fuel tanks, sumps, and other oil and hydrocarbon storage tanks, at gas stations and other locations such as ports, commercial trucking facilities, government installations, military bases, privately owned and commercial shipping vessels, and privately maintained fueling locations including trucking facilities, etc. Specialized versions of the devices can also clean up petroleum slicks on water surfaces—known as “sheen” or petroleum-contaminated water (PCW”), and other contaminants. The present invention can stop “phase separation”. Once they have absorbed water, most versions of the device can also be disposed of easily and economically compared to alternative disposal methods due to their extremely light weight and because they can be dehydrated before disposal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Inventor: Thomas Ralph Rossi
  • Patent number: 10550016
    Abstract: Wastewater containing scale components, organic substances, inorganic ions, and the like, such as human effluent, generated in a closed system space, such as a nuclear shelter, a hazardous shelter, a space station or a moon-Mars mission manned spacecraft, or a lunar base is efficiently treated by a simple structural apparatus, so that water is recovered. After a hardness component is removed from water to be treated, such as human effluent, by a softening device, and heat exchange is performed between softening treated water and electrolysis treated water by a heat exchanger, by a high-temperature and high-pressure electrolysis device, organic substances, urea, ammonia, and the like are removed by electrolysis performed under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions. After the electrolysis treated water is processed by a deaeration treatment using a deaeration membrane device, a desalting treatment is performed by acid/alkali manufacturing electrodialysis devices and provided in series at two stages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2020
    Assignee: KURITA WATER INDUSTRIES LTD.
    Inventors: Yukitaka Matsumoto, Hideki Kobayashi, Nobuhiro Orita
  • Patent number: 10525387
    Abstract: A filter cartridge for operatively coupling to an appliance interface to treat a fluid, such as water, being supplied to the appliance. The interface comprises a bypass valve for actuating the interface between a bypass mode in which the fluid flowing through the interface does not flow through the filter cartridge and a treatment mode in which the fluid flowing through the interface is directed through the filter cartridge for treatment by the filter cartridge. The filter cartridge comprises a cartridge housing having a first end and a second end and extending along a housing longitudinal axis through the first end and the second end. A filter media is contained within the cartridge housing between the first end and the second end. The filter cartridge also has a first end cap on the first end of the cartridge housing and a second end cap on the second end of the cartridge housing. A bypass valve actuator is attached to the cartridge housing and extends distally to an actuator distal end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2020
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventor: Christopher M. Campbell
  • Patent number: 10392995
    Abstract: A multi-layer liquid purification element includes a liquid-permeable top layer and a liquid-impermeable base layer. The base layer has a suction port for drawing-in liquid through the liquid purification element. At least the top layer and the base layer are connected to one another by a liquid-impermeable connection. At least one separate insert is disposed between the top layer and the base layer. A method for producing a liquid purification element, a device for extracting a liquid additive for exhaust-gas purification from a tank and a motor vehicle are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Continental Automotive GmbH
    Inventor: Georges Maguin
  • Patent number: 10328370
    Abstract: Provided is a non-woven filtration material including a multilayer structure having a density gradient. The multilayer structure includes a coarse layer disposed at an upstream side of the non-woven filtration material and a dense layer disposed at a downstream side of the non-woven filtration material. The coarse layer and the dense layer are dry layers. The coarse layer contains 30% to 60% by weight of crimped conjugated fibers and contains 30% to 70% by weight of finer fibers. The crimped conjugated fibers have an average fiber diameter in a range from 15 ?m to 45 ?m. The finer fibers have an average fiber diameter that is in a range from 5 ?m to 20 ?m and smaller than the average fiber diameter of the conjugated fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: TIGERS POLYMER CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shinsuke Mizuta, Shota Umemoto
  • Patent number: 10297984
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to ion generators and their enclosures that include a base, a non-linear wall projecting from the base, a top connected to the non-linear wall a top connected to the non-linear wall, wherein the base, the non-linear wall and the top form a closed space, and at least one ionizing element extending from the enclosure, wherein the at least one ionizing element is configured to receive a voltage capable of producing ions from a power source in the closed space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2019
    Assignee: PLASMA AIR INTERNATIONAL, INC
    Inventor: Lawrence T. Sunshine
  • Patent number: 10105318
    Abstract: The object of the present invention is low-dimensional, primarily 2D folded structures of organic and/or inorganic substances and/or their agglomerates, which have folds and faces of irregular shape and exhibit high local electric field strength generated by surface charges on the said folds, faces and edges, and use thereof: as sorbents of organic particles (molecules, bacteria, viruses, proteins, antigens, endotoxins) and inorganic particles (metal ions, colloids); as an agent with wound healing and antibacterial activity; as an agent for tumor cell growth inhibition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2018
    Assignees: Institute of Strength Physics and Materials Science of Siberian Branch Russian Academy of Sciences (ISPMS SB RAS), Jozef Stefan Institute, National Research Tomsk Polytechnic University (TPU)
    Inventors: Sergey G. Psakhie, Marat I. Lerner, Elena A. Glazkova, Olga V. Bakina, Olga Vasiljeva, Georgy A. Mikhaylov, Boris Turk
  • Patent number: 9950935
    Abstract: A water treatment device includes: an insulating divider which divides a space inside a water tank into two treatment vessels adjacent to each other in a horizontal direction, and includes a current carrier which is able to energize water in the two treatment vessels; a treatment unit including a pair of electrodes, a power supply, and a power supply controller; a water supplier which supplies water to each of the treatment vessels; and a draining member which drains water from each of the treatment vessels. The treatment unit includes a detector which detects a level of water in each of the treatment vessels based on an index corresponding to a current value between the pair of electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2018
    Assignee: DAIKIN INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Tomoki Saitou, Masaya Nishimura, Tsunahiro Ohdou, Sachiko Yamaguchi
  • Patent number: 9802158
    Abstract: The present invention relates to ultrafiltration. In particular, the present invention provides nanoporous membranes having pores for generating in vitro and in vivo ultrafiltrate, devices and bioartificial organs utilizing such nanoporous membranes, and related methods (e.g., diagnostic methods, research methods, drug screening). The present invention further provides nanoporous membranes configured to avoid protein fouling with, for example, a polyethylene glycol surface coating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignees: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN, THE CLEVELAND CLINIC FOUNDATION
    Inventors: William H. Fissell, Shuvo Roy, Aaron Fleischman, Kenneth G. Goldman
  • Patent number: 9701955
    Abstract: A system having improved trapping force for acoustophoresis is described where the trapping force is improved by manipulation of the frequency of the ultrasonic transducer. The transducer includes a ceramic crystal. The crystal may be directly exposed to fluid flow. The crystal may be air backed, resulting in a higher Q factor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Assignee: FloDesign Sonics, Inc.
    Inventors: Bart Lipkens, Jason Dionne, Walter M. Presz, Jr., Thomas J. Kennedy, III
  • Patent number: 9533241
    Abstract: Devices for separating materials from a host fluid are disclosed. The devices include an acoustic chamber having an inlet and an outlet. An ultrasonic transducer and reflector create a multi-dimensional acoustic standing wave in the acoustic chamber that traps the materials and permits a continuous separation of the materials from the host fluid. The materials and the host fluid can thus be separately collected. Multiple sets of trapping lines are generated by the acoustic standing wave, and the transducer is oriented to minimize cross-sectional area for straight vertical channels between the trapping lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: FloDesign Sonics, Inc.
    Inventors: Walter M. Presz, Jr., Kedar Chitale, Bart Lipkens
  • Patent number: 9512395
    Abstract: An acoustophoresis device made up of modular components is disclosed. Several modules are disclosed herein, including ultrasonic transducer modules, input/output modules, collection well modules, and various connector modules. These permit different systems to be constructed that have appropriate fluid dynamics for separation of particles, such as biological cells, from a fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2016
    Assignee: FloDesign Sonics, Inc.
    Inventors: Bart Lipkens, Jason Barnes, Dane Mealey, Walter M. Presz, Jr., Stanley Kowalski, III, Louis Masi, Thomas J. Kennedy, III, Brian McCarthy, Ben Ross-Johnsrud
  • Patent number: 9498550
    Abstract: A flow cytometer disinfection module is useful for disinfecting a sheath fluid in a flow cytometer. The module includes a flow cell and at least one UV-C and/or UV-B light source. The UV-C and/or UV-B light source is disposed about the cell and irradiates a sheath fluid passing through the cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignees: DEUTSCHES RHEUMA-FORSCHUNGSZENTRUM BERLIN, TECHNISCHE UNIVERSITÄT BERLIN
    Inventors: Michael Kneissl, Toralf Kaiser, Tim Kolbe
  • Patent number: 9400196
    Abstract: A method of detecting E-line loss in a disc stack centrifuge is provided, comprising: collecting data from at least one instrument associated with the centrifuge over a specific time period; calculating one or more indicators by comparing the collected data with expected values from a normally operating centrifuge, the indicators being indicative of a start of an E-line loss event; calculating the probability of E-line loss by applying weighted voting to the indicators to yield a probability value; and activating an alert upon determination that the probability value exceeds a threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2016
    Assignee: SYNCRUDE CANADA LTD.
    Inventors: Darcy Daugela, David Mueller, Daniel Bulbuc, Christine Engler-Cooper
  • Patent number: 9375662
    Abstract: A suspension processing method using ultrasonic waves has problems in that movement of solids in liquid do not follow movement of the sound field. Accordingly, application to a field that requires a high suspension processing performance or a high flow rate process is difficult. In order to achieve the high suspension processing performance, a design of adopting a long and large oscillator and the like is required. A suspension processing device (30) of separating and concentrating a component of solids in suspension (1a) using ultrasonic waves, includes: at least one supply port (32) for supplying the suspension (1a) into the device; a channel (31) through which the suspension flows; at least two outlet ports (33 and 34) for discharging processed suspension (1a); an oscillator (35) for emitting ultrasonic waves; and a reflection plate (36) for reflecting the emitted ultrasonic waves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2016
    Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., Tokyo Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Takuya Kambayashi, Kentaro Nakamura
  • Patent number: 9322716
    Abstract: A component measuring apparatus includes a plurality of light sources having different Wavelengths. The component measuring apparatus also includes an irradiation unit that applies lights emitted from the plural light sources to a measurement object, and a light receiving unit that receives at least one of light having transmitted through the measurement object and light having been scattered from the measurement object. The component measuring apparatus further includes a measuring unit that measures intensity of the light received by the light receiving unit per wavelength.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY CORPORATION OF AMERICA
    Inventors: Koichi Kusukame, Tatsuo Itoh, Kazuki Funase
  • Patent number: 9267473
    Abstract: A vehicle fuel pump assembly, method of construction thereof, and a fuel tank assembly is provided. The fuel pump assembly includes a non-conductive plastic reservoir and an electrically powered fuel pump disposed in the reservoir. The fuel pump is configured to receive fuel through an inlet and to dispense fuel through an outlet. A fuel filter assembly having a non-conductive plastic housing is disposed in the reservoir and a coating of conductive material is bonded to the housing. A conductive lead is configured in electrical communication with the coating and is further configured for attachment to an electrical ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Assignee: Carter Fuel Systems LLC
    Inventor: John E. Troxler
  • Patent number: 9108128
    Abstract: A filter has a filter medium (10) during operation clears fluid, particularly in the form of hydraulic fluid. The filter medium (10) is made of a material such that the potential difference to the fluid to be cleaned is low. The parts of the filter medium (10) have different potentials with respect to each other and/or the fluid to be cleaned such that they cancel each other at least partially, specific dissipation is aspired, or a return of electric charge to the associated filter medium (10) is provided, using a charge equalization situation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Assignee: Hydac Filtertechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Andreas Schmitz, Edwin Koch, Matthias Schwender, Claudia Brocker
  • Patent number: 9095790
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for separating water from an oil-and-water mixture includes at least two elongated separator vessels oriented at an incline and connected to one another so that an upwardly flowing oil predominant fluid passes from the first separator vessel to the second separator vessel where further electrostatic separation of water from the oil predominant fluid occurs. Each vessel has an electrode at its upper end preferably connected to a different voltage source. The inlet to each vessel is located relative to the electrode to provide an up flow or a down flow vessel. Additionally, the first vessel may be at a different elevation than the second vessel. An additional vessel may be included with output from the first vessel bypassing the additional vessel, the second vessel, or both. Baffles may be added in the water collection portion of each vessel to reduce turbulence and settling distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Gary W. Sams, Harry G. Wallace, Davis L. Taggart, David R. Manen, David A. Trevas
  • Patent number: 9034194
    Abstract: An apparatus for treating a flow of fluid with microwave radiation, the apparatus comprising: a vessel having a sidewall and opposed first and second end walls defining a substantially cylindrical chamber, the first end wall being disposed a predetermined distance d1 from the second end wall; a pipeline for flowing fluid through, the pipeline passing through the first end wall towards the second end wall of the vessel, the chamber and the pipeline being substantially co-axial and the pipeline being substantially transparent to microwave radiation; and a microwave radiation inlet in the side wall of the vessel for admitting microwave radiation of wavelength ? into the chamber, wherein the distance d1 is substantially equal to an integral multiple of ?/2 so that the chamber is a microwave resonator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: ADVANCED MICROWAVE TECHNOLOGIES LTD
    Inventors: Yuriy Vladimirovich Zadyraka, Sergey Ivanovich Gritsinin, Mamikon Aramovich Misakyan, Igor Antonovich Kossyl, Eduard Mikailovich Barkhudarou
  • Patent number: 9028689
    Abstract: An aqueous fluid treatment method and system is provided which preferably uses a 3 step electro-chemical oxidation process to remove organic contaminates from water. A high surface area electro-chemical reaction cell can be employed to remove organic particles and precipitate hardness salts from the aqueous solution. Several 3-phase spark arcs generated mixed oxidants and acoustic cavitations to remove dissolved organic compounds and oxidize organic metal compounds in the next step. Finally, a dielectric discharge in aqueous foam is used to eliminate recalcitrant organic compounds such as, but not limited to, polychlorinated aromatics, disinfectants, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals before release to environment or recycled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Global Water Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Fraim, Sanjeev Jakhete
  • Patent number: 9023214
    Abstract: The invention provides a method and apparatus for creating plasma particles and applying the plasma particles to a liquid. Liquid feedstock (e.g., water and/or hydrocarbons mixed with biomass) is pumped through a pipeline; the single-phase stream is then transformed into a biphasic liquid-and-gas stream inside a chamber. The transformation is achieved by transitioning the stream from a high pressure zone to a lower-pressure zone. The pressure drop may occur when the stream further passes through a device for atomizing liquid. Inside the chamber, an electric field is generated with an intensity level that exceeds the threshold of breakdown voltage of the biphasic medium leading to a generation of a plasma state. Furthermore, the invention provides an energy-efficient highly adaptable and versatile method and apparatus for sanitizing water using plasma particles to inactivate biological agents contaminating water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: AIC, LLC
    Inventor: Alfredo Zolezzi-Garreton
  • Patent number: 9011697
    Abstract: A method for the treatment of fluid including the step of exposing the fluid to a pulsed plasma discharge. The pulsed plasma discharge will be generated using a suitable electrode configuration to generate the plasma discharge in the fluid. Apparatus useful in the method may include a vessel, at least two electrodes for generating a plasma discharge in water, and a flow inlet and a flow outlet to allow water to be passed through the vessel. Also described is an in-line water treatment, where a pulsed plasma discharge is used in a pipe carrying moving water. Plasma based fluid treatment system may have many advantages in comparison to other treatment methods, such as very minimal maintenance, low operating power, and minimal pressure loss through the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Drexel University
    Inventors: Christopher A. Campbell, Young I. Cho, Alexander F. Gutsol, Alexander Fridman, Frank T. Snyder, Vincent Szarko, Erik Yelk, Jesse Zanolini, Victor Vasilets
  • Patent number: 9005452
    Abstract: A device for purifying a fluid is disclosed. The aforesaid device comprises: (a) a passage adapted for conducting a flow of the fluid, said passage provided with input and output openings; (b) a plurality of elongate members coated with a titanium oxide disposed within the passage; (c) fastening means for mechanically fixating terminals of the elongate members within the passage; (d) at least one source of ultraviolet radiation adapted for illuminating the elongate members; (e) pumping means adapted for generating the fluid flow through the passage from the input opening to the output opening. The fastening means comprises at least two fasteners. Each fastener comprises two mutually orthogonal spaced apart pluralities of parallel rods. The rods are adapted for restricting lateral displacement of the elongate members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Inventors: Alex Arenshtam, Pinchas Maman
  • Patent number: 8999154
    Abstract: Disclosed is a water treatment apparatus for treating Lake Okeechobee water. The treatment apparatus operates on a continuous flow of water which is subjected to hydrodynamic waves, acoustic ultrasonic waves in combination with injected ozone and electrolysis. The treatment system provides a cost efficient and environmentally friendly process for cleaning contaminated water that is directed into estuaries, lagoons, intracoastal waterway, everglades, and the ocean. Treatment includes addressing various levels of contaminants such as aerobic bacteria, often called a green slime that produces a bio-film. The apparatus can be mounted on a vessel to permit targeting of algae blooms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Ecosphere Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis McGuire
  • Patent number: 8997783
    Abstract: A liquid filter housing which comprises a housing pot of two-layered configuration and a housing cover closing the housing pot. The housing pot and the housing cover mutually enclose an interior, wherein the inner layer of the housing pot facing the interior is manufactured from an electrically conductive plastic material and the outer layer of the housing pot facing away from the interior from an electrically insulating plastic material. An especially good mechanical connection is achieved between the two layers by the inner layer and the outer layer being connected to one another in a positive-locking manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Jelena Zachovalova, Zdenek Frcek, Bedrich Gaidarus, Martin Krystof
  • Publication number: 20150090654
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing metal ions to a fluid waste stream includes a housing having an inlet port and an outlet port through which the fluid waste stream enters and exits the housing. Within the housing and between the inlet and outlet ports is an electrode assembly that includes first electrode ring assemblies and second electrode ring assemblies. Each first electrode ring assembly includes a first tubular section formed of electrically insulative material and has an interior through which the fluid waste stream flows. One or more first electrode plates span the interior of the first tubular section and contact the fluid waste stream. Each second electrode ring assembly includes a second tubular section formed of electrically insulative material and has an interior through which the fluid waste stream flows. One or more second electrode plates span the interior of the second tubular section and contact the fluid waste stream.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Applicant: INNOVATION SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Jeffrey G. Hubrig, Joseph B. Dooley
  • Patent number: 8992848
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a delivery apparatus for delivering electromagnetic energy into a solution. The delivery apparatus comprises a coil means arranged within an outer housing for delivering a magnetic field into the solution, a voltage assembly means coupled to the coil means for delivering an electric field into the solution, and connection means for delivering an electromagnetic signal to the coil from electromagnetic signal generation circuitry contained within the housing. The arrangement of the present invention confers significant physical stability on the delivery apparatus and ensures that heat generated by heat generating components of the apparatus is conducted away from the electromagnetic signal generation circuitry so that the apparatus can be operated continuously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventors: Austin Darragh, David Darragh
  • Patent number: 8974643
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for purifying a liquid comprising liquid particles and residual particles. It is hereby possible to generate substantially pure water from, for instance seawater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: High Voltage Water B.V.
    Inventors: Sybrand Jacob Metz, Gerrit Oudakker, Johannes Cornelis Maria Marijnissen
  • Patent number: 8940166
    Abstract: An electrocoagulation apparatus is disclosed integrated with a plate clarifier and sludge chamber for effluent treatment. The clarifier includes first and second tanks, an electrocoagulation reactor positioned in the first tank. The sludge chamber is defined below and integrated with the primary reaction chamber and has a selectively openable outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Rockwater Resource, LLC
    Inventor: Reginald A. Wiemers
  • Patent number: 8932464
    Abstract: Static dissipaters for eliminating static electricity in fuel filter assemblies and fuel filter assemblies including static dissipaters are provided. The static dissipaters are in the form of a static dissipation sleeve that is disposed around the outside of a fuel pump within a fuel filter assembly. The static dissipation sleeve has one or more protrusion portions that protrude radially from the surface of the static dissipation sleeve and provide contacts for static dissipation of static electricity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: MANN+HUMMEL Purolator Filters LLC
    Inventors: Timothy A. Byrd, L. Steven Cline
  • Patent number: 8920647
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Wilsa, Inc.
    Inventor: Herbert William Holland
  • Publication number: 20140360889
    Abstract: Embodiments of systems, devices, and methods for treating, remediating, or abating carbon-containing wastes generate at least one of clean water; non-toxic, non-hazardous ash; or power. Some embodiments are modular, permitting rapid deployment, flexible configuration, and easy transportation. Embodiments of the systems treat carbon-containing aqueous waste, carbon containing waste, or a combination thereof. The systems, devices, and methods are particularly suited to treating hydrocarbon containing waste generated in oil and natural gas drilling and hydrofracturing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventors: Coyte R. Jones, Robert C. Jones
  • Patent number: 8906242
    Abstract: Disclosed is an improved water treatment apparatus. The treatment apparatus is pressurized and operates on a continuous flow of fluids which are subjected to hydrodynamic waves, acoustic ultrasonic waves in combination with injected ozone. The treatment tank includes a tangential inlet that induces a rotating flow into the tank thereby increasing the mixing of the ozone within the effluent. The ozonated fluid is further electro chemically treated with DC current. The treatment tank provides a cost efficient and environmentally friendly process and apparatus for cleaning and recycling fluids as contaminated as frac water, used to stimulate gas production from shale formations, as well as other types of fluids having various levels of contaminants such as aerobic and anaerobic bacteria and suspended solids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Ecosphere Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis McGuire, Sanjeev Jakhete
  • Publication number: 20140346110
    Abstract: The filtration membrane (102) includes an ozone producing circuit (120) having a plurality of electrically conductive lines (122, 124) disposed directly upon an active surface (102a) of the filtration membrane (102). The electrically conductive lines (122, 124) form spaced-apart and interleaved anodes (122) and cathodes (124). Ozone and other mixed oxidants coming from the ozone producing circuit (120) will prevent and/or remove biofilm formations on the active surface (102a) without the need of an outside source of gas. They can also remove at least some undesirable dissolved gases from the liquid being purified.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2012
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Applicant: Ozomax Inc.
    Inventors: Amir Salama, Marianne Salama
  • Publication number: 20140339162
    Abstract: Electrocoagulation (EC) may remove oil and solids from oilfield water and other raw, untreated or unprocessed water as a pretreatment for increased boron removal efficiency using a subsequent boron selective resin. Boron selective resins are efficient for boron removal, but oil and solids in water lower the boron remove efficiency and capacity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2014
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: JIASHENG CAO, RONALD M. MATHERLY, DARYL D. MCCRACKEN, KUSHAL SETH
  • Patent number: 8888997
    Abstract: A centralized supply system for electrolyzed oxidizing water comprises a water softener (1), several parallel electrolyzed oxidizing water generators (2) connected, liquid storage tanks (3, 4) and delivery pumps (5, 6). A central controller (10) implements independent control over the several parallel electrolyzed oxidizing water generators (2). Liquid level sensors (9) are mounted in the liquid storage tanks (3, 4) and are connected with the central controller (10) via data collection cables (12). With the detection, determination and calculation for the liquid level signal in the liquid storage tanks (3, 4) using the central controller (10), the volume magnitude and the rate of change of the volume for the liquid in the liquid storage tanks (3, 4) can be exactly obtained in time. The electrolyzed oxidizing water generators (2) are effectively controlled based on above data. An intelligent control method for the system is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Global Resource Envi-Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Dunjie Zhang, Xiangbing Kong
  • Patent number: 8865003
    Abstract: A method for separating, or removing, particulate material, e.g., blood cells, from a sample of fluid, e.g., whole blood of a patient, in which the particulate material is suspended. In the case of separating blood cells from blood plasma or blood serum, the resulting samples of blood plasma or blood serum can be used for in vitro diagnostic applications. In normal practice, a whole blood sample of a patient are provided and then introduced into an apparatus that contains a flow channel. An acoustic field, which contains acoustic standing waves from external ultrasonic transducers, is located within the flow channel. Laminar flow is maintained in the flow channel. Blood cells and platelets are separated from blood plasma or blood serum at the end of the flow channel and collected. The method described herein allows fluid components to differentially migrate to areas of preferred acoustic interaction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Abbott Laboratories
    Inventor: Tahua Yang
  • Patent number: RE45415
    Abstract: An oxygen emitter which is an electrolytic cell is disclosed. When the anode and cathode are separated by a critical distance, very small microbubbles and nanobubbles of oxygen are generated. The very small oxygen bubbles remain in suspension, forming a solution supersaturated in oxygen. A flow-through model for oxygenating flowing water is disclosed. The use of supersaturated water for enhancing the growth of plants is disclosed. Methods for applying supersaturated water to plants manually, by drip irrigation or in hydroponic culture are described. The treatment of waste water by raising the dissolved oxygen with the use of an oxygen emitter is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Oxygenator Water Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: James Andrew Senkiw