One Unit Inside Another Patents (Class 210/256)
  • Patent number: 7981293
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for treatment of contaminated liquid are provided including an integrated ultra-filtration and clarification apparatus, and an optional integrated electrocoagulation capability. The integrated apparatus comprises an outer tank, an inner casing, and a plurality of ultra-filtration filters contained within the inner casing. Clarification of liquid occurs in the gap between the casing and tank. Solid matter settles, and aggregates in the bottom portion of the tank. The accumulated solid material acts as a secondary filter by pre-filtering the liquid prior to contact with the ultra-filtration filters. Clarified liquid is retained in a chamber of the casing, and the clarified liquid is drawn through the ultra-filtration filters as initiated by a source of vacuum communicating with the ultra-filtration filters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Inventor: Scott W. Powell
  • Patent number: 7959012
    Abstract: An apparatus for treating oil-based sludge includes a boiler, a heat exchanger having a circulatory steam path in fluid communication with the boiler and a sludge path receiving sludge, a plurality of serially-aligned mixers in fluid communication with the sludge path of the heat exchanger, a separation tank in fluid communication with the plurality of mixers, and wherein the separation tank includes a tank having a plurality of walls, a hydrocyclone mounted within the tank receiving sludge from the plurality of mixers, wherein the hydrocyclone includes a solids outlet directing a solids component towards a bottom portion of the tank and a fluid outlet directing a fluid component into the tank, a means for conveying separated solids along the bottom portion of the tank to a solids outlet, and a plurality of fluid outlets vertically located along a tank wall, wherein each outlet includes a valve providing selective fluid communication from the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: M-I L.L.C.
    Inventor: Catalin Ivan
  • Publication number: 20110132827
    Abstract: A filtration and demineralization apparatus that is capable of reducing the cost of the apparatus and building cost by using an apparatus whose height is limited, and that is also capable of ensuring sufficient treatment capacity, as well as good operability, is provided. A filtration and demineralization apparatus 10 comprises a vessel 20 in a form of a body of revolution; a hollow columnar body 40 that is located in an internal space of the vessel 20, one end 40a of the columnar body being connected to an inner surface of the vessel 20 along an entire circumference of the end, and the other end 40b of the columnar body forming an opening; and a partition plate 44 that is connected to the other end 40b of the hollow columnar body along an entire circumference of the other end 40b, the partition plate being configured to separate an inside space or an outside space of the hollow columnar body 40 as an independent space in the vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2009
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicant: ORGANO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Mitsuru Yoden, Satoshi Kasahara, Mikio Sugano
  • Publication number: 20110114567
    Abstract: A precipitation device comprises a precipitation element disposed within a vessel and configured to define a precipitation zone and a solid-liquid separation zone between the precipitation element and the vessel, the precipitation zone configured to receive a first stream of saline liquid and to precipitate solids from the saline liquid, the solid-liquid separation zone configured to settle the solids by gravity, and an exit port located in an upper portion of the vessel and configured for exit of a second stream of liquid of lower salinity than the first stream, wherein a ratio of a diameter of the vessel to a diameter of the precipitation element ranges from about 1.5 to about 2.8. Associated system and method are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventors: Zijun Xia, Rihua Xiong, Jiyang Xia, Chengqian Zhang, James Manio Silva, Weiming Zhang, Wei Cai
  • Patent number: 7935255
    Abstract: A filter cartridge configured as a filter-in-filter design with an inner filter and an outer filter. The filter cartridge has features, for example an overhanging lip, to engage with a lid of a filter housing in which the cartridge is installed such that the lid is connected to the cartridge. As a result, the cartridge can be connected to the lid to facilitate installation and removal of the cartridge. Alternatively, the same features that allow connection with the lid permit a user to manually grasp the cartridge during installation and removal so that the cartridge can be used without a lid having attachment features. The filter cartridge is also designed to enable use of a longer inner filter within the outer filter. A longer inner filter increases the amount of filter media available for filtering the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: Cummins Filtration IP, Inc.
    Inventor: Zemin Jiang
  • Publication number: 20110083285
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and method for production of natural dye from skin of fruits using submerged membrane water extractor system. The process uses an ultrafiltration submerged membrane and nanofiltration cross flow membrane. The product containing the natural dye flows through the membrane contains plentiful of pure natural dye. This process is the integrated by extractor and membrane (ultrafiltration and nanofiltration) technology.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2010
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Applicant: UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA PAHANG
    Inventors: Mimi Sakinah ABDUL MUNAIM, Zularisam AB WAHID
  • Publication number: 20110068063
    Abstract: One or more apparatuses for removing hydrocarbons and contaminates are provided. The apparatus for removing hydrocarbons and contaminates can include a hopper in communication with a material moving device. The material moving device can be at least partially disposed within a trough. An injection port can be disposed in the trough. A separation tank can be communication with the material moving device, and the separation tank can be in fluid communication with a scalper, a shaker screen, a screen, a hydrocyclone, a dewatering centrifuge, a clarifying tank, or combinations thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2010
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Inventors: Doug Mallonee, Edward Beverly Moe
  • Publication number: 20110027110
    Abstract: A method of controlling operation of an ESP, comprising determining at least one operating speed (rpm) at which the ESP experiences unacceptable levels of lateral vibrations; and applying a periodic modulation to the operating speed when operating the pump at the determined speed to damp the lateral vibrations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Inventors: Stanislav Nikolaevich Verichev, Jacques Orban, Evgeny Mikhailovich Sviridov
  • Publication number: 20110017669
    Abstract: A concentrator is used for concentrating a fluid, particularly a plasma component out of blood, for treatment of a patient. The concentrator apparatus includes a main housing defining a centrifuge chamber, that also holds the filter. The concentrator allows viewing of the fluid after centrifuging, with an outlet port positionable at a height corresponding to the level of the fraction of the fluid to be further concentrated. Once the fluid is centrifuged, a portion of the fluid is drawn through the outlet, and then pressured past the filter to further concentrate the fluid using the same vessel as used for centrifuging. The same plunger is preferably used to draw centrifuged fluid from the centrifuge chamber as to pressure the centrifuged fluid past the filter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2010
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Applicant: Circle Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas Coull, Matthew R. Kyle, Louis S. Kidder
  • Publication number: 20110009796
    Abstract: An extracorporeal fluid treatment apparatus includes a separator comprising a cartridge surrounding a porous separation membrane. The membrane separates a main flow path of a cellular component of the blood from a plasma flow path. An affinity medium is disposed within the plasma flow path to bind contaminants such as viral pathogens or toxins contained within the plasma. A pump pumps the plasma through the affinity medium at an assisted flow rate preferably between 10% and 40% of the whole blood flow rate. The assisted flow rate is selected to reduce a T90% of the apparatus by at least 50% as compared to a T90% of the apparatus without the plasma pump. A method of treating blood containing contaminants includes supplying infected blood to a separator and pumping the plasma component through an affinity medium at an assisted flow rate to increase contaminant clearance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Applicant: AETHLON MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Richard H. Tullis, Harold H. Handley, Paul Duffin
  • Patent number: 7866485
    Abstract: A Platelet Rich Plasma separator assembly is disclosed. The assembly can include a cylindrical outer wall closed at the top by an upper plate and closed at the bottom. A bottom plate having an upper surface sloped down to a central opening. The top edge of the inner wall terminates at a distance from the upper plate to define an annular erythrocyte passageway therebetween. The inner wall has an outer surface and an inner surface that slopes radially inward from its top edge to its bottom at an angle of from 0.2 to 5 degrees with a central axis of the inner wall. A cylindrical depth filter is positioned between the inner surface of the outer wall and the outer surface of the inner wall in communication with the inner wall through the erythrocyte passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignees: Hanuman, LLC, Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Randel Dorian, Michael D. Leach
  • Patent number: 7857973
    Abstract: A self-cleaning discharge system used with a wastewater treatment system. The wastewater treatment system includes a tank for collecting wastewater while the wastewater typically includes solid particles. The discharge system comprises a housing, a filter positioned in the housing, an effluent discharge apparatus positioned inside the filter, and a venturi effect flushing system positioned proximate to the bottom of the housing. The housing includes a perimeter and at least one intake aperture positioned in the perimeter to accept the wastewater. The filter is shaped to substantially restrict flow of particles into the filter and to the discharge apparatus. The discharge apparatus is in fluid communication with the wastewater in the tank and includes a discharge path to position to transport filtered wastewater outside of the tank. The venturi effect system is in fluid communication with the housing and the tank to return the particles restricted by the filter to the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Inventor: Robert J. Pickney
  • Patent number: 7857974
    Abstract: A filter cartridge for use in filtering fluids, for example fuel, lubrication, hydraulic and other liquids, as well as air. The filter cartridge is a filter-in-filter design with an inner filter and an outer filter. The inner filter and the outer filter, for example the bottom end plates thereof, are connected to each other via a snap fit connection mechanism. During manufacture, the inner filter can be inserted into the outer filter, with the snap fit connection mechanism retaining the inner filter in the outer filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Cummins Filtration IP, Inc.
    Inventor: Zemin Jiang
  • Publication number: 20100282661
    Abstract: There is described a fluid treatment system comprising: (i) a fluid inlet; (ii) a fluid outlet; and (iii) a fluid treatment zone in fluid communication with the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet. The fluid treatment zone comprises a housing within which is disposed a fluid separation section (the separation section may include a single separation device or a combination of two or more similar or disimilar separation devices) and a fluid radiation section in fluid communication with one another. The fluid separation section removes solids in the fluid and the fluid radiation section irradiates the fluid to deactive microorganisms in the fluid. The fluid separation section and the fluid radiation section are configured to have a substantially common fluid flow path which significantly reduces the space or footprint requirement of and/or significantly reduces hydraulic head loss (pressure drops) in the overall fluid treatment system while allowing the two sections to perform their respective functions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2010
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Applicant: Trojan Technologies
    Inventor: JIM FRASER
  • Publication number: 20100276354
    Abstract: A tank assembly for holding first and second removal materials, comprising a first container and a second container. The first container defines a first chamber. The second container defines a second chamber. The second container is arranged within the first chamber to define a lower portion, an upper portion, and an annular portion of the first chamber. The second chamber comprises a lower portion and a filter portion. The filter portion of the second chamber is adapted to contain the first removal material. The annular portion of the first chamber is adapted to contain the second removal material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Inventor: Anthony N. Senff
  • Patent number: 7811449
    Abstract: A wastewater treatment system is provided that utilizes an equalization tank that stores hydraulic surge flows from the collection system and uses a waterwheel to transfer a maximum flow equal to plant design flow to the downstream treatment systems. The waterwheel aerates the raw wastewater in the equalization tank and prevents it from going septic and causing unacceptable odors. Because the waterwheel cannot transfer more than plant design flow to the downstream treatment elements, these elements will never experience a hydraulic overload.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Waste Stream Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Theodore U. Warrow
  • Patent number: 7803279
    Abstract: A concentrator is used for concentrating a fluid, particularly a plasma component out of blood, for treatment of a patient. The concentrator apparatus includes a main housing defining a centrifuge chamber, that also holds the filter. The concentrator allows viewing of the fluid after centrifuging, with an outlet port positionable at a height corresponding to the level of the fraction of the fluid to be further concentrated. Once the fluid is centrifuged, a portion of the fluid is drawn through the outlet, and then pressured past the filter to further concentrate the fluid using the same vessel as used for centrifuging. The same plunger is preferably used to draw centrifuged fluid from the centrifuge chamber as to pressure the centrifuged fluid past the filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Circle Biologics, LLC.
    Inventors: Thomas Coull, Matthew R. Kyle, Louis S. Kidder
  • Publication number: 20100224540
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a membrane module including a first plurality of fibers capable of filtering fluids that are helically wound in layers creating a mono helix. Fluids to be treated can flow radially with respect to a longitudinal axis of the mono helix or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the mono helix. The membrane module can further include a second plurality of fibers that are helically wound with the first plurality of fibers to create a dual helix. The second plurality of fibers can have different properties than the first plurality of fibers in order to achieve different filtering functionalities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2009
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Inventors: Philip M. Rolchigo, John H. Burban, John Shanahan, Robert O. Crowder
  • Publication number: 20100219131
    Abstract: The invention relates to a two-stage design for a water purification system, with water to be purified first passing through a first stage containing particulate filtration media, and a second stage containing a porous filtration block. The particulate filtration media can be the same as, or different from, material included in the porous block. Either material may be any material that removes contaminants from water by, e.g., absorption, adsorption, ion exchange, sequestration, or other mechanism, or any combination of these.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: Selecto, Inc.
    Inventor: Ehud Levy
  • Publication number: 20100219117
    Abstract: A filter element includes a cylindrical housing enclosing a ring-shaped filter media assembly. The media assembly includes inner and outer media rings, moveably supported relative to one another, to remove particulate matter and water from a fluid stream. The outer ring surrounds the inner ring and is sealed by a first seal to the housing. An end cap assembly at the upper end of the element includes an annular end cap piece attached to an upper end of the inner ring, a flat plate, and a threaded flange portion bounding the periphery of the plate. A second seal is provided between the upper end cap of the inner ring, and an upper end cap of the outer ring. The housing is secured to the media assembly by forming an open end of the housing around the flange portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventors: Cheryl M. Reiland, Walter H. Stone
  • Patent number: 7749383
    Abstract: A filter cartridge in a filter-in-filter design with an inner filter and an outer filter. A mechanism, for example crush ribs, connects an upper end plate of the outer filter and an upper end plate of the inner filter to prevent relative axial and radial movement therebetween when assembled. Relative axial or radial motion can create a rattling noise which is sometimes perceived as a low quality filter. The crush ribs are, for example, formed on an interior surface of the upper end plate of the outer filter, and the ribs engage an outer perimeter of the upper end plate of the inner filter. One or more of the ribs crush when the inner filter is installed into the outer filter to ensure tight axial and radial engagement between the filters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Cummins Filtration IP, Inc.
    Inventor: Zemin Jiang
  • Publication number: 20100140155
    Abstract: A filter arrangement includes a filter cartridge having a first filter element and a second filter element. The first filter element includes a first tubular section of filter media extending between first and second end caps and defining a first open filter interior. The second filter element includes a second tubular section of filter media operably oriented in the first open filter interior. The second tubular section of filter media extends between third and fourth end caps and defines a second open filter interior. The first end cap defines an inner container and an outer container circumscribing the inner container. The outer container is secured to the first tubular section of filter media. The inner container has an end wall axially spaced from the outer container. The third end cap has a media end secured to the second tubular section of filter media and a tubular wall axially extending from the media end. The tubular wall is circumscribed by the inner container of the first end cap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2008
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Applicant: Donaldson Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Gary H. Gift, Jeffrey J. Theisen
  • Publication number: 20090321343
    Abstract: A drum is for a rotary separator including a shaft rotatable about a central axis. The drum includes an inner drum member having inner and outer circumferential surfaces and being disposed generally about the shaft such that a first flow passage is generally defined between the inner drum member inner surface and the shaft. The inner drum inner surface is configured to separate liquids from a fluid flow contacting the surface. An outer drum member has inner and outer circumferential surfaces and is disposed generally about the inner drum member such that a second flow passage is generally defined between the outer drum member inner surface and the inner drum member outer surface, the second flow passage being generally coaxial with the first flow passage. Further, the outer drum inner surface is also configured to separate liquids from a fluid flow contacting the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Applicant: Dresser-Rand Company
    Inventor: William C. Maier
  • Publication number: 20090200216
    Abstract: A treatment station for a water drainage conduit has a chamber with an inlet and outlet in fluid communication with upstream and downstream sections of the conduit and a sediment collection portion. Water enters the chamber via the inlet, collecting in the sediment collection portion until it reaches a level in the chamber such that it flows out of the outlet. A filter is mountable above the sediment collection portion for the upwards-flowing filtration of water passing through the chamber to remove organic contaminants. Access means are provided for removal and replacement of the filter and removal of solid material deposited in the sediment collection portion. The treatment station may also have by pass means which operate where the flow of water exceeds a rate which can flow through the filter and preliminary sediment collection chamber for collecting large quantities of sediment. Uses of the treatment station are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2006
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Applicants: Iain Aleander Stewart Robinson, The University Court of the University of Edinburg
    Inventors: Iain Alexander Stewart Robinson, Colin John Cunningham
  • Publication number: 20090159521
    Abstract: A filtration module comprises a housing having an inlet and an outlet; a plurality of hollow fiber membranes disposed in the housing, each membrane having a wall and a lumen open to the outlet; a porous shell disposed in the housing and encasing the plurality of hollow fiber membranes, the shell having an opening through which ends of the hollow fiber membranes pass; and a plug in the outlet, the ends of the hollow fiber membranes passing through the plug and the shell ending in the plug. A liquid treatment apparatus comprising the filtration module is also disclosed, as are method for making the filtration module and the liquid treatment apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2008
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Inventors: Rudolph Luning, Uwe Klaus, Laurence J. Purcell
  • Patent number: 7524415
    Abstract: The invention concerns a plant comprising, on a vertical axis, a homogenizing vessel (1) followed by a settling vessel (2) and a flocculating vat (3). The homogenizing vessel (1) is fed by tangential intake (92) of the effluent and the input (611) and the output (612) of the upper tube (61) comprise a helical guide (613, 614) for driving the effluent in rotation. The lower tube (62) of larger diameter than that of the upper tube (61) is terminated by an outlet in the form of an upside-down cone (622) with reduced cross-section (621). The lower portion (31) of the flocculation vat (3) is truncated, with an apex angle, smaller than that of the upper portion (32), said lower portion (31) being parallel to the cone of the outlet of the lower tube (62), and anti-backflow cones (7, 8) surround the conduit (6) in the settling vessel (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Inventor: Bernard Beaulieu
  • Publication number: 20090071892
    Abstract: A filter cartridge that is designed to accommodate differences in lengths between an outer filter media and an inner filter media by providing a flexible connection between the inner filter media and the outer filter media. In addition, the endplates of the inner filter and the outer filter together define a gasket groove that receives a gasket. Using the endplates of the inner and outer filter media to define the gasket groove eliminates a mold parting line that can lead to fluid leakage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2007
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Applicant: CUMMINS FILTRATION IP, INC.
    Inventor: Gerard MALGORN
  • Publication number: 20090045106
    Abstract: A water treatment system (“WTS”) includes a prefilter, a carbon block filter and a microbiological interception (“MI”) filter that operate in combination to treat a fluid stream, such as water. The WTS may include two prefilters, for example, both a multi-layer nonwoven prefilter and a pleated fabric prefilter. The MI filter may include carbon particles and a binder, and the carbon particles may have a mean particle diameter ranging from about 60 microns to about 80 microns and with a particle size distribution in which no more than about 10% by weight of the particles are larger than about 140 mesh and no more than about 10% by weight are smaller than about 500 mesh. In one embodiment, the water treatment system further includes a volumetric end-of-life filter monitor that monitors the life of the MI filter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: ACCESS BUSINESS GROUP INTERNATIONAL LLC
    Inventors: Roy W. Kuennen, Kenneth E. Conrad, Roy M. Taylor, JR.
  • Publication number: 20090045149
    Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method for removing sediment from water is disclosed. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus includes a tubular filter assembly comprising a support member; and a filtratable element surrounding the support member, the filtratable element comprising a backing mesh; and a fibrous batting. A system for removing sediment from water is disclosed. According to one embodiment, the system includes a filter chamber to receive a liquid having suspended particles therein; at least one filtration cartridge housed within the filter chamber, wherein the filtration cartridge comprises at least one elongated filtratable element, each filtratable element comprising a support member, and a filtratable media adapted to surround the inner core. A method for removing sediment from water is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventors: Christopher Adam Murray, Darren Francis Kevin Lawless
  • Patent number: 7473355
    Abstract: A delivery device for a chemical additive is provided for an oil filter. A carrier supporting a chemical additive is arranged within a central opening of a pleated filter media. The carrier interlocks with a center tube, also arranged within the central opening, that supports that filter media. The carrier includes fingers that axially and radially locate the carrier to prevent movement of the carrier within the filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Purolator Filters NA LLC
    Inventors: L. Steven Cline, Jeremy J. Ramsey
  • Publication number: 20080290025
    Abstract: Described herein are methods and systems for combination membrane/biolytic filtration. In one embodiment a filtration system is operated under suction. The arrangement includes a feed tan (5) having a smaller filtrate vessel (6) positioned therein. The region within, the feed tank (5) not occupied by the filtrate vessel (6) is partially filled with layers of decomposing and decomposed solid organic waste material to form an aerobic filter bed (7) of the type used in biolytic filtration as described above. A further module vessel (8) is mounted within the filtrate vessel (6) to form a membrane chamber (9) containing a membrane filtration module (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2006
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Inventors: Warren Thomas Johnson, Bruce Gregory Biltoft, Dean Osman Cameron
  • Patent number: 7442298
    Abstract: A high denitrification shared type Orbal oxidation ditch, pertaining to water treatment technical field, comprises an outer channel, a median channel, an inner channel, all of ellipse, and a secondary deposition tank. Wherein, the length of the outer channel is prolonged in the ellipse's major axis direction and the secondary deposition tank that is tangential to the inner wall or shares the wall with the outer channel is arranged between the outer and median channels. All the channels (the outer channel, the median channel and the inner channel) and the secondary deposition tank are integrated in the Orbal oxidation ditch, all of the anaerobic zone, regulation zone, hydrolysis acidifying zone, primary deposition zone, sludge outer re-circulation zone and wastewater inner re-circulation zone etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Yixing Lingzhi Environmental Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jianjun Ling
  • Patent number: 7441665
    Abstract: The water purification cartridge treats water with a halogen liberated from halogenated hydantoinyl resins and polymers, resulting in the safe, complete, and economical purification of non-potable water at low flow rates typically found in gravity feed filtration systems and at water pressures of less than 1 psig. The cartridge of the invention purifies non-potable water of bacteria, viruses, and some protozons without the need for additional power sources or risk to the consumer for exposure to chemicals that have been identified to have harmful, long-term effects. The cartridge described herein enables a gravity fed water purification system by combining the cartridge with conventional filters, such as porous diatomaceous earthen ceramic water filters or activated carbon filters packed either with granular activated carbon or block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: HaloSource, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Bridges, John P. Souza
  • Patent number: 7431852
    Abstract: A separator separates water and oil. An outer housing has an inner volume and an inner housing. One port in the inner housing receives influent mixed liquids. Another port from the inner housing discharges water outside the outer housing and defines a static liquid level. An outlet above the static level from the inner housing to the inner volume allows oil held in the inner housing to flow to the outlet. Surges of influent temporarily raise liquid levels, so oil passes the outlet to the inner volume. A supplemental separator in the outer housing removes oil from the inner volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Thermaco, Inc.
    Inventors: William C. Batten, Bruce W. Kyles
  • Patent number: 7429332
    Abstract: A device for separating constituents of a fluid mixture includes an elongate vessel oriented at an acute angle to horizontal. The vessel is operable to receive the fluid mixture and direct the fluid mixture to flow in a convection cell spanning substantially a length of the vessel. The convection cell is formed by gravitational forces acting on the fluid mixture and is operable to deposit a heavy constituent of the fluid mixture about a lower end of the vessel and a light constituent of the fluid mixture about an upper end of the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jim B. Surjaatmadja, Timothy H. Hunter
  • Patent number: 7413656
    Abstract: An aerobic system provided to treat sewage generated by a modern larger home which does not have access to a municipal sewage connection The features of this system are adaptable to upgrade and/or replace existing systems. In a preferred embodiment the system uses two 1000 gallon tanks, a first pretreatment tank to receive raw sewage, remove settleable and floatable solids from the sewage, and discharge into a second tank in which the pool of sewage is aerated. The second tank contains a motor driven aerator and a unique self-cleaning filter driven by an outgoing liquid stream from the aerator. After passing through the filter, the liquid is then discharged into a leaching field or nearby stream as permitted by the proper regulatory agency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: Mor-Air Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas M. Allen, Thomas W. Olson, Carl E. Miller
  • Patent number: 7332094
    Abstract: A method comprises rendering a hydrocarbon industry servicing fluid biologically inert without using chemical biocides. One method of rendering a hydrocarbon industry servicing fluid biologically inert comprises irradiating at least one constituent of the servicing fluid to produce an irradiated fluid. Another method comprises irradiating a used hydrocarbon industry servicing fluid to produce a remediated fluid that is biologically inert. A fluid treatment system comprises an irradiation apparatus, inlet piping directing an untreated fluid into the irradiation apparatus, outlet piping directing an irradiated fluid out of the irradiation apparatus, and a connection to a hydrocarbon industry application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry Lance Abney, Graeme W. Pirie, Tim Hunter, Billy Slabaugh, Leonard Case
  • Patent number: 7309418
    Abstract: A filtering device for a gravity-flow liquid treatment system includes a first filter component that can be either exposed or adjacent to a substantially transparent region in at least a portion of a filter housing. The first filter component is capable of providing a visual indication of exposure to at least one contaminant. The contaminants for which the first filter component can indicate exposure include particles, inorganic, and organic contamination. Particle contamination is indicated by a change in color of the first filter component through particle collection. Inorganic and organic contaminants are indicated by reaction with at least one agent capable of undergoing a color-change reaction in response to at least one contaminant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2007
    Assignee: The Clorox Company
    Inventors: Patrick C. Joyce, Toni L. Lynch, Edward B. Rinker
  • Patent number: 7252766
    Abstract: A system, method and apparatus for treating wastewater containing biodegradable material wherein a submerged stand alone perforated cylinder reactor pod containing aerobic bacterial growth media and a draft tube with air pressure induced pumping action creates a spray or splash pattern so as to recirculated aerated liquor through the media and also to the area surrounding the cylinder pod. Free interchange of mixed and unmixed liquor is provided via the perforations in the cylindrical pod wall. Provision is also made for back flushing the media and returning mixed liquor to an area remote from the reactor pod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Inventors: William L. Stuth, Sr., Matthew M. Lee
  • Patent number: 7223343
    Abstract: A reactor chamber for placement in a wastewater treatment system, where the reactor chamber has a chamber formed from a sidewall which forms an interior of the chamber. The sidewall has a top portion and a bottom portion and fixed channel growth media positioned in the interior of the chamber. The fixed channel growth media is positioned below the top of the sidewall, so that when positioned in a treatment system, most of the growth media is located below the water level in the treatment system. The top of the sidewall near the water level (when positioned in a treatment system) is substantially impermeable to wastewater. The reactor includes an air distribution manifold system having a series of air release sites positioned below the fixed channel growth media and adapted to release air which disperses upwardly through the fixed channel growth media. Influent is discharged into the treatment tank near the air discharge sites.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: Pentair Pump Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Raleigh L. Cox, Christopher E. Cox, Brenda Guy, Michael D. Catanzaro, Murphy M. Arcemont, III, Travis L. LeJeune
  • Patent number: 7105089
    Abstract: A liquid-liquid extraction system including an outer chamber and an inner chamber. The outer chamber is adapted to contain one of a feed solution and a liquid extractant and defines a containment region. The inner chamber is adapted to contain the other of the feed solution and the liquid extractant within a lower portion of the inner chamber. The inner chamber is defined by a microporous membrane sleeve that internally maintains a frame. Upon final assembly, at least the lower portion of the inner chamber is positioned within the containment region of the outer chamber such that the microporous membrane sleeve establishes an extraction interface between contents of the inner and outer chambers. In one embodiment, the flow region of the microporous membrane sleeve is immersed within a feed solution otherwise contained within the outer chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Dan L. Fanselow, Todd W. Johnson
  • Patent number: 7074339
    Abstract: An improved apparatus and method is disclosed for separating solids from a liquid. The apparatus and method comprises a first separator for circulating the solids and the liquid to concentrate the solids within the liquid. The concentrated solids are discharged into a second separator. The second separator extends upwardly for separating and discharging the concentrated solids from the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Settled Solids Management, Inc
    Inventor: Norman Kenneth Mims
  • Patent number: 7052604
    Abstract: A water treatment system includes a cylindrical water filter having a cylindrical exit passageway. A plurality of spheres are formed from a predetermined water treatment chemical agent. The spheres are positioned at spaced apart locations along substantially the entire length of the exit passageway of the cylindrical water filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Procam Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: Roy E. Seibert
  • Patent number: 7048848
    Abstract: A hybrid oil filter assembly includes a housing and a first (e.g., conventional) oil filter element disposed in proximity to a bottom portion of the housing. The first oil filter element contains an open inner volume. A second oil filter element having a generally circular cylindrical shape is disposed circumferentially about a length of the first oil filter element. The second oil filter element may be made of rolled paper and filters particles of a smaller size than the first oil filter element (e.g., down to about one microns, thereby providing micro-filtering of the engine oil).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Inventor: Norbert Assion
  • Patent number: 7049615
    Abstract: A portable ultraviolet water purifier is disclosed which has an outer housing defining a water chamber with a coupling for attachment to a faucet an inlet and an outlet with an ultraviolet light source therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Inventor: Warren G. Browne
  • Patent number: 7008537
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a microbiological interception enhanced filter medium, preferably having an adsorbent prefilter located upstream from the filter medium. Preferably, the prefilter is adapted to remove natural organic matter in an influent prior to the influent contacting the microbiological interception enhanced filter medium, thereby preventing loss of charge on the filter medium. The microbiological interception enhanced filter medium is most preferably comprised of fibrillated cellulose fibers, in particular, lyocell fibers. At least a portion of the surface of the at least some of the fibers have formed thereon a microbiological interception enhancing agent comprising a cationic metal complex. A filter medium of the present invention provides greater than about 4 log viral interception, and greater than about 6 log bacterial interception.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: Koslow Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Evan E. Koslow
  • Patent number: 7005065
    Abstract: A clip for supporting the clarifier and the droplines in a wastewater treatment system is disclosed. The clip comprises a pair of parallel main plates wherein at least one main plate contains a groove. The main plates are separated by a bracing plate. The bracing plate is perpendicular to the main plates and is attached to the ends of each. Attached to the free ends of each of the main plates is a pair of mounting plates. These mounting plates are parallel to the bracing plate. In a preferred embodiment, the grooves are “V” shaped and each contains a hole. This pair of holes are vertically aligned, and each hole is sized to contain a dropline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Pentair Pump Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Wayne Guy, Michael D. Catanzaro, Raleigh Lee Cox, Christopher Edward Cox
  • Patent number: 6942788
    Abstract: A reactor chamber for placement in a wastewater treatment system, where the reactor chamber has a chamber formed from a sidewall which forms an interior of the chamber. The sidewall has a top portion and a bottom portion and fixed channel growth media positioned in the interior of the chamber. The fixed channel growth media is positioned below the top of the sidewall, so that when positioned in a treatment system, most of the growth media is located below the water level in the treatment system. The top of the sidewall near the water level (when positioned in a treatment system) is substantially impermeable to wastewater. The reactor includes an air distribution manifold system having a series of air release sites positioned below the fixed channel growth media and adapted to release air which disperses upwardly through the fixed channel growth media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Pentair Pump Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Raleigh Lee Cox, Christopher Edward Cox, Brenda Guy, Michael David Catanzaro, Murphy Martin Arcemont, III, Travis Lee LeJeune
  • Patent number: 6939463
    Abstract: A filter for a spa or pool, having a filter body which receives a filter bag having a sheath encompassing the exterior of the filter body and a pocket extending inwardly from the front end of the sheath into the filter. Operation of the spa water circulation system draws spa water into the filter bag pocket while concurrently spa water is drawn transversely through the filter bag sheath and auxiliary spa water openings into the filter body. An O-ring encircles the upper portion of the filter bag to releasably retain such bag to the filter body during operation of the spa water circulation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: A.H. Equipment Corporation
    Inventor: Gregg W. Leaverton
  • Patent number: 6932912
    Abstract: A liquid chlorine supply canister is connected by a supply tube and venturi chamber to a recirculating pipe that discharges into a storage-mixing tank into which sewage effluent is received from a source. The supply tube is provided with a filter/orifice assembly. A pump causes circulation of sewage effluent through the venturi chamber and develops a suction in the supply tube which draws chlorine through the filter/orifice assembly and into the flowing sewage effluent stream. A recirculation pipe from the venturi chamber into the tank, causes turbulence of sewage effluent and dissolved chlorine (either solution or gaseous) within the tank for efficient mixing of the chlorine component with the constituents of the sewage effluent. A crossover tubing is connected with the pump discharge pipe and the recirculation pipe and enhances the induction of chlorine (disinfected) effluent into an effluent discharge pipe leading to a spray field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Inventor: Mark N. Chaffin