With Pump, Gas Pressure Or Vacuum Source Patents (Class 210/258)
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Patent number: 6706173Abstract: A filtration system for cleaning the fluid in a wash tank. The filtration system includes a process tank from which fluid is pumped to a filter element located in the wash tank. The filter element is formed of hollow porous tubes. The fluid is pumped from the process tank through the hollow porous tubes and back to the process tank. The fluid in the hollow porous tubes is at a greater pressure than that of the fluid in the wash tank in which it is submerged, such that fluid, but not particulate matter, with flow through the pores in the tubes to the wash tank. Cleaned fluid is thereby provided to the wash tank and fluid with a higher concentration of contaminants is returned to the process tank.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2002Date of Patent: March 16, 2004Inventor: Thomas Heumann
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Patent number: 6692636Abstract: An apparatus for separating solid particles from the suction effluent of, for example, a dental office, preferably driven by a dental office vacuum pump, includes a surge tank for accommodating effluent overfill connected to a sedimentary deposit tank for sedimentation of effluent particles. A bypass conduit is connected to the surge tank inlet which is equipped with a vacuum break valve for allowing air into the system when the suction openings are closed. The sedimentary deposit tank has a series of baffle chambers through which effluent flows in sequence, and in each of which chambers sediment is deposited for later removal. The surge tank preferably has a liquid level sensor and warning device. Modular filters or adsorbants may be installed in the sedimentary deposit tank, or a modular auxiliary filter may be connected downstream of the tank. Chemical injection may be used to improve sedimentation.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2001Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Richard H. Chilibeck
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Patent number: 6692638Abstract: A filtration apparatus includes a laundry waste sump, a primary 50 micron static screen filter, a 9,000 gallon equalization tank, at least one secondary media/carbon filter, a sludge holding tank with a pump to return excess water to the equalization tank, a backwash pump, an air blower, and a clear well tank water source for backwash. An exemplary embodiment of the invention also includes a surge tank between the primary and secondary filters and a surge tank between the secondary filter and the clear well tank.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2001Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: James P. Sharkey
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Patent number: 6692645Abstract: A water reservoir treatment system for a swimming pool, water tank, spa, or fountain water, which is simple to operate, low in maintenance, and highly reliable. The system preferably comprises, in sequence, a water circulation system, a vortex separator for initial separation of particulates, and an absorption or adsorption filter which may be a conventional pool filter using sand, diatomaceous earth, or paper cartridge as filtering medium.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2000Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Joseph Gargas
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Publication number: 20040019313Abstract: The present invention provides systems, methods and apparatuses for medical fluid delivery systems that employ a pumping cassette. In particular, the present invention provides systems, methods and apparatuses for cassette-based dialysis therapies including hemodialysis, hemofiltration, APD (including tidal modalities) and CFPD. The embodiments described include a combined pump/valve housing, a fail safe pump/valve arrangement, a cassette auto-alignment feature, a pumping membrane material, a multiplexing valve arrangement, an expert fluid pumping management system, an integral port vent and an in-line air separation chamber and combinations of each of these.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 31, 2002Publication date: January 29, 2004Inventors: Robert W. Childers, Richard Avoy, John Booras, Joseph H. Bowman, Paul Grippo, Andrew D. Hopping, David Howard, Jeffrey W. Jerrell, Benjamin Kellam, Brian Lauman, Sherwin Shang, David Vescovi, Tahua Yang, Alex Yu
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Publication number: 20040011722Abstract: A hemodialyzing unit includes a dialytic fluid supply line for feeding a dialytic fluid from a dialytic fluid supply/discharge unit to a dialyzer, a dialytic fluid discharge line for feeding a dialytic fluid discharged from the dialyzer to the dialytic fluid supply/discharge unit, and a bypass line for connecting both lines at an intermediate portion of each. A flow rate adjusting member is provided to a downstream supply line between a coupling portion for coupling the dialytic fluid supply line to the bypass line and the dialyzer. A wider range of treatments such as CHD (or CHDF), SHD (or SHDF), and HD (or HDF) can be conducted without employing a device for the exclusive use of the CHD or CHDF.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 16, 2002Publication date: January 22, 2004Applicant: JMS CO., LTD.Inventor: Tomoaki Murakami
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Patent number: 6669839Abstract: A process and system for pretreating, gathering, transmitting and finally treating waste produced at multiple locations includes pretreating the waste proximate the generation site, gathering the pretreated waste and transmitting the waste to a final treatment facility. One or more gathering stations, with sensing and feedback mechanisms, allow for controlled injection of waste to collection lines, and segments thereof, to control system demand through the collection line and to final treatment facility. The pretreating step includes removing particulates that impede the flow of waste through the collection lines.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2002Date of Patent: December 30, 2003Inventors: Gary A. Tipton, Guy L. Harrell
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Publication number: 20030230522Abstract: A cart, preferably welded aluminum, supports both vertically and horizontally for rolling and transport a reverse osmosis and pressure pumping system. In the system preferably (i) two series-flow-connected pre-filters of, nominally, 5 micron sediment and KDF carbon types, that are preferably series-flow-connected with (ii) an optional anti-scaling device, both receive and pre-filter input water. Pressure of the pre-filtered input water is boosted to, nominally 150 p.s.i., in a first pump of nominal 3 g.p.m. flow capacity before being supplied to preferably 3 series-flow-connected RO membrane filters, each typically with a membrane of 2½″×40″ and a flow capacity of 1,300 gallons per day. Water purified to, preferably, less than 10 and nominally 7 ppm Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), is boosted in a second, 2 gpm, pump to, preferably, about 1000 p.s.i., with a nominal 1 gpm waste water going to drain and/or for recycling.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 17, 2002Publication date: December 18, 2003Inventor: Augustin Pavel
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Patent number: 6663773Abstract: A waste disposal and recovery system for disposal of expanded polystyrene foam and recovery of a usable resin. The system includes a first tank and a second tank in flow communication. Within the second tank may be a plurality of settlement compartments with a filtration system. An organic solvent is used to dissolve the EPS foam which forms a waste solution. The waste solution is directed to the second tank where it is separated into resin and the organic solvent. The solvent may be recycled for use in dissolving more EPS foam while the resin may be removed for storage, shipment or sale.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2002Date of Patent: December 16, 2003Assignee: Densified Solutions, L.L.C.Inventors: John W. Rickett, Kevin L. Lyons
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Patent number: 6663769Abstract: A system for making use of rainwater falling on houses and buildings, which comprises a means for removing a predetermined quantity of initial precipitation from the rainwater collected form the roof surface of the building; and a purifier receiving the subsequent rainwater from which the initial precipitation has been removed. The purifier includes a filtering tank, a sterilization tank, and a supply tank connected to the sterilization tank. The filtering tank has a physical filter and a pH adjusting agent, the sterilization tank contains a primary reactive catalyst for producing active oxygen species, and the supply tank supplies aqueous hydrogen peroxide to the primary reactive catalyst. The system also has a storage tank that stores the purified rainwater supplied from the purifier. The storage tank contains a secondary reactive catalyst for decomposing and eliminating residual active oxygen species remaining in the purified rainwater supplied from the purifier.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2001Date of Patent: December 16, 2003Assignee: Takachiho Corp.Inventor: Makoto Hosoya
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Patent number: 6663777Abstract: An improved digester apparatus converts wet carbonaceous biomass materials to biogas in a digestion unit operating at a controlled temperature and having a concentrator component and a pressure swing component each containing anaerobic bacteria. The apparatus conveys slurried aqueous biomass from a biomass source to the concentrator component and removes the biogas from the concentrator component and conveys concentrated aqueous biomass from the concentrator component to the pressure swing component and conveys digested aqueous biomass from the pressure swing component to the concentrator component. The apparatus removes waste solids from the pressure swing component and a pressure swing pump controls the pressure within the pressure swing component in a cycle comprising a sub-atmospheric first pressure phase and a second pressure phase at or above atmospheric pressure.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2002Date of Patent: December 16, 2003Inventor: Keith A. Schimel
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Publication number: 20030226795Abstract: An environmentally friendly dual lube venturi filter cartridge which has no metallic components. A plastic centertube having a venturi section supports a bypass filter element on standoffs molded into the centertube. An outer concentric full flow filter element surrounds the bypass filter. The full flow filter is supported on a plastic centertube which creates a gap between it and the bypass filter. A first bypass filter endcap both seals the bypass filter and provides standoffs for allowing full flow oil around the bypass filter. The standoffs thus split the full flow which progresses through the primary filter in two paths, a primary path around the bypass filter and into the centertube, and a bypass path through the secondary filter and the venturi. Plastic upper and lower endcaps carry grooves for simple sealing gaskets, a radial seal gasket on the bottom which seals against both the endcap which carries it and a flange in the housing, and an axial seal gasket at the top.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: Baldwin Filters, Inc.Inventors: Steven J. Merritt, Gene W. Brown
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Publication number: 20030226793Abstract: An environmentally friendly acid neutralizing filter cartridge is adapted to be mounted in a cartridge mounting body of an engine oil circuit for filtering particulates and neutralizing acid in oil. The filter cartridge comprises a support housing that comprises substantially no metal parts such that the filter cartridge can be readily incinerated. A full flow particulate filter and a bypass particulate filter are arranged in the support housing. A bed of acid neutralizing particles is contained in the support housing. The housing is configured such that a predetermined primary flow path is defined through the filter cartridge that passes through the full flow particulate filter and bypassing the bed of acid neutralizing particles; and a predetermined bypass path is defined through the filter cartridge that passes, in sequence, through the bed of acid neutralizing particles and the bypass particulate filter.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: Baldwin Filters, Inc.Inventors: Steven J. Merritt, Gene W. Brown
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Publication number: 20030229302Abstract: A blood processing system (2), includes a housing (4), to which a user control panel is mounted, having an access opening (47) therein. A cassette assembly (22), mounted to the housing for movement between a use position covering the access opening and a cassette-replacement position, includes a cassette holder and cassette (26) removably mounted to the holder. The cassette includes in part by tubing aligned with a through-hole (45) in the cassette. A door (34) is mounted to the housing for movement between a latched position, capturing the cassette between the panel and the door, and a released position. Independently-driven roller assemblies (46, 54, 72) pass part-way through the access opening to capture first tubing portions (44A, 52A, 68A) between the roller tracks (100, 102, 104) and the roller assemblies for peristaltic pumping of fluid. A number of movable pinch elements (48, 80, 90, 96) are extendable through the front panel to selectively pinch the tubing against the door and thus seal the tubing.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 3, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: Mission Medical, Inc.Inventors: Thomas C. Robinson, Thomas P. Sahines, Richard R. D'Elia, Robert K. Fernandez, Frank Hickman
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Patent number: 6656355Abstract: A cost effective apparatus for preparing dialysate solution which can finely adjust the concentration of dialysate solution is described. The apparatus comprises a chamber 2, the inside of which is divided into three compartments 21, 22, 23 by a movable partitions 24, 25, a dissolving solution supply line 1 for supplying dissolving solution to the first compartment 21, a solution tank 5, a dialysate solution preparing line 31 connecting the solution tank 5 and the first compartment 21, a dialysate solution preparing line 32 connecting the solution tank 5 and the third compartment 23, a transporting pump 4 provided in the dialysate solution preparing line 32, a powder supply means 7 provided above the solution tank 5, and a dialysate solution transporting line 6 for transporting the dialysate solution prepared and filled in the third compartment 23 to the point of use, a by-pass line 81, and a circulating line 91.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2001Date of Patent: December 2, 2003Assignee: Nipro CorporationInventor: Yoshihiko Sano
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Publication number: 20030220607Abstract: A method, system and apparatus for performing peritoneal dialysis are provided. To this end, in part, a peritoneal dialysis apparatus is provided that includes a body provided with an operating portion and a display, a mounting portion provided on the body for detachably mounting a cassette, a pumping actuating device for setting a diaphragm in a positive and negative pressure state to distribute fluid from the dialysis fluid container to the drained fluid container, and a heater for heating an amount of dialysis fluid. The apparatus further includes a flow path switching device for opening/closing a flow path switching portion in order to form a flow path through which the heated dialysis fluid is distributed into and drained from a peritoneal cavity of a patient, and a controller for controlling operation of the operating portion, the display, the pumping actuating device, the heater, and the flow path switching device.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2002Publication date: November 27, 2003Inventors: Don Busby, Peter Hopping, Robert Childers, Shahid Din, Brian Lauman, Rick Kienman, Ian Richardson, Joseph H. Bowman, Loren M. Lundtveit, Jose Alvaro, Bruce Ming-Da Eu, Sherwin Shang
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Publication number: 20030217976Abstract: A method, system and apparatus for performing peritoneal dialysis are provided. To this end, in part, a member for removably securing a medical fluid tube is provided. The member includes a body providing a first fluid pathway and an opening for removably receiving an end of the medical tube. The first fluid pathway is placed in fluid communication with a second fluid pathway defined by the tube when the end of the tube is removably receiving. The member further includes a filter so positioned and arranged so as to cause fluid flowing through the first fluid pathway to pass through the filter, the filter allowing air but not liquid to flow through the first fluid pathway.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2002Publication date: November 27, 2003Inventors: Joseph H. Bowman, Loren M. Lundtveit, Jose Alvaro, Ben Kellam, Don Busby, Bruce Ming-Da Eu
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Publication number: 20030217957Abstract: A method, system and apparatus for performing peritoneal dialysis are provided. To this end, in part, a manifold for a medical fluid unit including at least one flexible membrane is provided. The manifold includes a plastic body defining an aperture, a fluid pathway communicating with the aperture and at least partially defined by the plastic body, and at least one port extended from the plastic body and communicating with the aperture. The port has a thickness and defines an opening, wherein at least a portion of the thickness is tapered and at least a portion of the tapered portion is heat sealed to the membrane.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2002Publication date: November 27, 2003Inventors: Joseph H. Bowman, Loren M. Lundtveit, Keith M.K. Anderson, Sherwin Shang
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Publication number: 20030217961Abstract: A method, system and apparatus for performing peritoneal dialysis are provided. To this end, in part, a dialysis system is provided. The dialysis system includes an enclosure having an interior, a fluid pump located within the enclosure, and a conductive member located within the enclosure and operated at an input mains voltage. The dialysis system also includes a number of conductive parts connected to the enclosure and spaced apart from the conductive member, and electrical insulation located between the conductive member at the input mains voltage and each of the number of conductive parts. The insulation includes double insulation having at least two layers of electrical insulation and reinforced electrical insulation.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2002Publication date: November 27, 2003Inventor: Peter Hopping
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Publication number: 20030217962Abstract: A method, system and apparatus for performing peritoneal dialysis are provided. To this end, in part, a pump for a dialysis system is provided. The pump includes a first chamber wall including a first aperture, a second chamber wall including a second aperture, a piston, at least a portion of which can move through the second aperture, the piston including a third aperture, and first and second membranes disposed between the first and second chambers walls. A vacuum can be applied through the first aperture to pull the first membrane towards the first chamber wall and can be applied through the third aperture to pull the second membrane towards the piston. The piston can thereafter move the second membrane.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2002Publication date: November 27, 2003Inventors: Robert Childers, Don Busby
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Publication number: 20030217975Abstract: A method, system and apparatus for performing peritoneal dialysis are provided. To this end, in part, a method of controlling a medical fluid heater is provided. The method includes the steps of determining a first heater control output based on a number of measured inputs for the heater and at least one mathematical relationship between at least two of the measured inputs, determining a second heater control output based on at least one fuzzy logic membership function and at least one fuzzy logic rule, and determining a third heater control output based on the first and second outputs and using the third heater control output to control the heater.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2002Publication date: November 27, 2003Inventors: Alex Anping Yu, Peter Hopping
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Patent number: 6652744Abstract: The invention relates to a device for processing, especially for filtering and removing, fluids and fluid remnants in a low-pressure chamber (1). The device comprises a vacuum pump (30) and a separator (16), whereby the low-pressure chamber is connected to the separator via a first line (10), and the low-pressure chamber is connected to the vacuum pump via a second line (20) so that the low-pressure chamber can be evacuated while bypassing the separator. The invention also relates to a low-pressure chamber for processing fluids which is equipped with a heating plate with holes for heating areas of the interior space of the low-pressure chamber.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Qiagen GmbHInventors: Konstantin Lutze, Michael Collasius, Ulf Friederichs
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Patent number: 6649057Abstract: A dialysate preparing apparatus in which concentration of dialysate can be finely adjusted is provided. The dialysate preparing apparatus comprises a chamber 2, the inside of which is divided into four compartments 21, 22, 23, 24 by movable partitions 25, 26, 27; a dissolving solution supply line 1 for supplying dissolving solution to the first compartment 21; a solution tank 5; dialysate preparing lines 31, 32 connecting the solution tank 5 with the first compartment 21 and with the second compartment 22, respectively; a transporting pump 4 provided in the dialysate preparing line 32; a concentration meter N; a powder supply means 7; and dialysate lines 61, 62 connecting the second compartment 22 and the fourth compartment 24 with a dialyzer D, respectively; a circulating line 81; and a waste liquid discharge line 9.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2001Date of Patent: November 18, 2003Assignee: Nipro CorporationInventor: Yoshihiko Sano
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Patent number: 6649055Abstract: A pump station for transferring radioactive particle containing waste water, includes: (a.) an enclosed sump having a vertically elongated right frusto conical wall surface and a bottom surface and (b.) a submersible volute centrifugal pump having a horizontally rotating impeller and a volute exterior surface. The sump interior surface, the bottom surface and the volute exterior surface are made of stainless steel having a 30 Ra or finer surface finish. A 15 Ra finish has been found to be most cost effective. The pump station is used for transferring waste water, without accumulation of radioactive fines.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2002Date of Patent: November 18, 2003Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of EnergyInventors: John P. Whitton, Dean M. Klos, Danny T. Carrara, John J. Minno
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Publication number: 20030205526Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for desalinating seawater utilizing a two stage seawater desalination system, a first stage including at least one high performance nanofiltration membrane to receive seawater feed pressurized by a first stage pump sufficiently and to produce a first permeate, and a second stage including at least one high performance nanofiltration membrane to receive the first permeate pressurized by a second stage pump to between about 200 psi and about 300 psi to produce potable water.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 2, 2002Publication date: November 6, 2003Inventor: Diem Xuan Vuong
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Publication number: 20030205517Abstract: Blood processing systems and methods establish on line communication between a container and a source of blood containing leukocytes and platelets, such as a human donor. The systems and methods create a centrifugal field between the source of blood and the container that separates from the blood an unfinished suspension of platelets having a first physiologic characteristic different than the desired physiologic characteristic. The systems and methods pump the unfinished platelet suspension outside the centrifugal field through a finishing device. The finishing device changes the first physiologic characteristic to the desired physiological characteristic, thereby creating the finished platelet suspension. The systems and methods convey the finished platelet suspension from the finishing device directly into the container. The systems and methods function without interrupting the on line communication between the container and the source of blood.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 6, 2003Publication date: November 6, 2003Applicant: Baxter International Inc.Inventor: Daniel F. Bischof
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Patent number: 6638433Abstract: A system for controlling the operation and performance of water-only cyclones used in coal preparation plants for separating a fine raw coal slurry into fine coal and fine refuse slurries includes a variable speed pump for feeding the slurry from an underpan of a deslime screen to a water-only cyclone. A nuclear density gauge measures the specific gravity of the slurry feeding the cyclones and generates a signal used to control the addition of water. A level sensor measures the level of the fine raw coal slurry in the underpan. A pressure sensor measures the pressure of the fine raw coal slurry pumped to the water-only cyclone. A speed control device uses signals from the level and pressure sensors to control the speed of the pump in order to maintain an appropriate level of slurry in the underpan, and an appropriate feed pressure to the water-only cyclone.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2002Date of Patent: October 28, 2003Assignee: Sedgman, LLCInventors: Larry A. Watters, Daniel S. Placha
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Patent number: 6632362Abstract: This invention pertains generally to anaerobic digesters, and more particularly to a system and process that extends the range of acceptable biomass feedstock concentrations and provides pH process control of all known digestion processes: by the creation of a vacuum or vacuum retort in or before the digester that essentially acts to boil off excess liquid, thickening the liquor of the digester to an optimum value; and to control the pH of the various phases or stages of digestion by separating the component products of digestion and mixing or diffusing a portion of said component products into the mixing system of each phase of the process. A system and process: that produces a potable water effluent, clean commercially useful by-products, zero environmental emissions, a very positive ecological impact; and, that has the capability of being completely self powered plus providing energy back to the community or industry that supports or owns it.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2001Date of Patent: October 14, 2003Inventor: Herman P. Miller, III
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Patent number: 6616835Abstract: A coolant recycling system for efficiently recycling contaminated machine tool coolant thereby extending the useful life of the coolant. The coolant recycling system includes a support frame, a first tank for receiving contaminated coolant, a second tank for receiving a volume of water and coolant concentrate, and a third tank for treating and cleaning the contaminated coolant. A skimmer apparatus is positioned within the third tank for removing the upper level of contaminants from the coolant for filtering separately from the significant volume of coolant within the third tank. An ozone applicator applies a specific volume of ozone to the coolant during the mixing of the coolant within the third tank which kills mold, yeast, fungus and bacteria while also changing the physical state of dissolved solids for increasing the ability to remove the contaminants from the coolant and micro air bubbles float contaminants to the surface to be skimmed.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2001Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Inventor: Jon A. Jensen
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Patent number: 6613233Abstract: A method in which a fluid is driven into a process unit through utilization of a propulsion unit operating in a process mode. A process is performed which utilizes the fluid in the process unit. The propulsion unit is set to operate in a recycle mode and fluid contaminated by the process is driven into a recycling unit through utilization of the propulsion unit. A system comprises a process unit that utilizes a liquid to perform a process. A recycling unit recycles fluid contaminated by the process. A propulsion unit coupled to the process unit and the recycling unit is adjustable between a process mode and a recycle mode.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2001Date of Patent: September 2, 2003Inventors: Todd Rusk, Joseph Pickowitz, Timothy Lindsey, Kishore Rajagopalan
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Patent number: 6607663Abstract: A treatment and filtration device for use with a wastewater output contaminated with a chemical associated with a dry cleaning operation. An enclosed basin is capable of being filled with a volume of the wastewater for timed treatment. A first elongated module is arranged within the basin at a first location, the first module accomplishing initial filtration of the wastewater and substantial recovery of the chemical contaminant. A second elongated module is arranged within the basin at a second spaced apart location relative to the first module, a series of exterior and porous membranes interconnect the first and second modules as well as inwardly opposing wall edges of the basin proximate the modules and in order to divide the basin into first and second zones. The second module vaporizes a substantial remaining component of the chemical contaminant concurrent with discharging, from the first zone into the second zone, a further filtrated water output.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2002Date of Patent: August 19, 2003Inventor: Cameron Dixon
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Publication number: 20030138349Abstract: A blood processing system (2), includes a housing (4), to which a user control panel is mounted, having an access opening (47) therein. A cassette assembly (22), mounted to the housing for movement between a use position covering the access opening and a cassette-replacement position, includes a cassette holder and cassette (26) removably mounted to the holder. The cassette includes in part by tubing aligned with a through-hole (45) in the cassette. A door (34) is mounted to the housing for movement between a latched position, capturing the cassette between the panel and the door, and a released position. Independently-driven roller assemblies (46, 54, 72) pass part-way through the access opening to capture first tubing portions (44A, 52A, 68A) between the roller tracks (100, 102, 104) and the roller assemblies for peristaltic pumping of fluid. A number of movable pinch elements (48, 80, 90, 96) are extendable through the front panel to selectively pinch the tubing against the door and thus seal the tubing.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 3, 2002Publication date: July 24, 2003Applicant: Mission Medical, Inc.Inventors: Thomas C. Robinson, Thomas P. Sahines, Richard R. D'Elia, Robert K. Fernandez, Frank Hickman
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Patent number: 6596178Abstract: A system for cleaning, heating and purifying contaminated aqueous solutions. The system utilizes a separator having a wheel with staggered orifices of different diameters and depths. The wheel is tightly held within a housing and is mounted on a rotating shaft. The shaft is held by sealed bearing assemblies. The shaft is rotated by an external electromotive devise. The aqueous solution is transported to the separator via preheat and circulation tanks by use of a pump, and passes to a storage container where it may be utilized for many purposes, via a pair of heat exchangers, a venturi and a second pump.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2001Date of Patent: July 22, 2003Assignee: Hydro Development LLCInventors: Guy Archibald, Fred Hayes
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Patent number: 6592754Abstract: An apparatus for separating solid particles from the suction effluent of, for example, a dental office, preferably driven by a dental office vacuum pump, includes a surge tank for accommodating effluent overfill connected to a sedimentary deposit tank for sedimentation of effluent particles. A bypass conduit is connected to the surge tank inlet which is equipped with a vacuum break valve for allowing air into the system when the suction openings are closed. The sedimentary deposit tank has a series of baffle chambers through which effluent flows in sequence, and in each of which chambers sediment is deposited for later removal. The surge tank preferably has a liquid level sensor and warning device. Modular filters or adsorbants may be installed in the sedimentary deposit tank, or a modular auxiliary filter may be connected downstream of the tank. Chemical injection may be used to improve sedimentation.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2001Date of Patent: July 15, 2003Inventor: Richard H. Chilibeck
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Patent number: 6589482Abstract: An extracorporeal fluid circuit for performing hemofiltration defines within a flexible panel a flow channel that is free of an air interface. The flexible panel includes an in-line sensor region through which fluid pressure in the flow channel can be measured by an external sensor. The systems and methods enable sensing fluid pressure through the in-line sensor region using the external sensor. The flow channel can convey, e.g., waste from the hemofilter or replacement fluid for return to the individual.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2000Date of Patent: July 8, 2003Assignee: NxStage Medical, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey H. Burbank, James M Brugger, Dennis M. Treu
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Patent number: 6589423Abstract: A filtration system has a plurality of filtration modules disposed within an outer casing, which produce both a low pressure filtrate and a high pressure waste fluid from a pressurized feed fluid. The subsystem used to pressurize the feed fluid is mechanically coupled to the subsystem used to recover energy from the waste fluid such that energy in the high pressure waste fluid is used to pressurize the feed fluid. The pressurization and energy recovery subsystems are preferably coupled using a common drive shaft and at least one of the pressurization and energy recovery subsystems may advantageously contain a turbine.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2000Date of Patent: July 8, 2003Assignee: Nate InternationalInventor: Dennis Chancellor
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Patent number: 6579457Abstract: The present invention is a liquid transport member with significantly improved liquid handling capability, which has at least one bulk region and a wall region that completely circumscribes said bulk region, and which comprises a membrane port region and an open port region, whereby the bulk region has an average fluid permeability kb which is higher than the average fluid permeability kp of the membrane port region.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2000Date of Patent: June 17, 2003Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Bruno Johannes Ehrnsperger, Mattias Schmidt, Karl Michael Schumann, Fred Naval Desai, Gary Dean Lavon, Gerald Alfred Young, Donald Carroll Roe
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Publication number: 20030106861Abstract: A method and apparatus for red blood collection and filtration is provided wherein a red blood cell collection assembly provides for leukoreduction filtration concurrent with or soon after the red blood cell separation and collection procedure. Such procedures involve filtering the separated red blood cells in a diluted state after and/or prior to flushing the filter with storage solution. Storage solution may thus be passed through the leukoreduction filter before, with and/or after the RBCs have been filtered therethrough. The red blood cell collection, filtration and storage assembly is preferably preconnected to a blood component separation disposable assembly, including, for example, a centrifuge vessel and a blood removal/return assembly for removing blood from a donor, passing the blood to the centrifuge vessel for separation of the blood into components for collection and providing for filtration of the separated red blood cell component.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2002Publication date: June 12, 2003Inventors: Bruce M. Gibbs, Jon D. Herskovits
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Patent number: 6572762Abstract: A discharge water system for the bilge of a boat includes a primary bilge discharge system and a supplemental bilge filtration system. The primary discharge system includes a pump operable when the fluid in the bilge collects above a predetermined level in the boat to discharge bilge water overboard. The supplemental system includes a filter assembly with filter media for removing hydrocarbons in bilge water passing through the media; and a pump operable when the water in the bilge collects to a selected level below the operating level “L” of the primary pump to pump bilge water to the filter assembly and then to discharge the essentially hydrocarbon-free bilge water overboard. The filter assembly includes primary secondary filter cartridge, both of which include hydrocarbon-absorbing media, and are connected in series. A pressure sensor and remote indicating device provide an indication of the primary filter cartridge becoming spent.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2002Date of Patent: June 3, 2003Assignee: Parker-Hannifin CorporationInventors: Martin C. Maxwell, Robin B. MacDonald, Jeffrey A. Fulan, Gary A. Garcia
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Patent number: 6569320Abstract: A fuel collection and rehabilitation device for use in connection with diesel engines, the diesel engine having a fuel filter having an interior volume for containing fuel therein. The fuel collection and rehabilitation device having conduits for releasable fluid communication with the interior volume. A pumping device selectively moves the fuel from the fuel filter to a collection receptacle and then through a filtration device. The fuel then can be selectively routed back to the fuel filter connected to the diesel engine.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2000Date of Patent: May 27, 2003Assignee: K.J. Manufacturing Co.Inventors: Ram D. Bedi, George R. Blundy
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Patent number: 6565744Abstract: The present invention provides treatment of wastewater containing oil, organic and inorganic industrial compounds, urea, and e.t.c. The resulting products will be purified water, dry fertilizer, pure carbomide, uncontaminated gas and liquid fuel, and other products that can be separated from the concentrate after ultrafiltration. In order to accomplish those and other objectives the present invention improves the system for cleaning wastewater by subjecting the wastewater to a magnetic field and heating it before the initial settling process. In addition, before ultrafiltration, the liquid is treated in an electroflotation device. The wastewater cleaning system can also be comprised of a urea separator for separating urea from other products.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2001Date of Patent: May 20, 2003Inventors: Mikhail Levitin, Boris Khaytin
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Patent number: 6565758Abstract: A system for dispensing, collecting, and processing wash fluid includes a first movable support frame including a first tank that stores clean wash fluid, a first pump that pressurizes the clean wash fluid and delivers the pressurized wash fluid to a dispenser, a second tank that stores used wash fluid, and at least one of a separator unit and a reverse osmosis unit that process used wash fluid delivered from the second tank. A second movable support frame includes a used washed fluid collection area and a second pump at one end that transfers the collected wash fluid back to the second tank of the first movable support frame through a conduit. The second movable support frame also includes an inclination adjustment mechanism that adjusts the inclination of the second movable support frame so that the collected fluid is supplied to the second pump.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2001Date of Patent: May 20, 2003Assignee: The Centech Group, Inc.Inventor: Gordon Thomas
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Publication number: 20030089647Abstract: A filtration device is provided in which wastewater, in the form of a colloidal solution containing microparticles, is guided to tank, circulated, and filtrated using a second filter. The device includes a gel film that is formed by suction on the surface of a first filter. The suction pressure in this process is made extremely weak to maintain the filtration capacity while extending intervals prior to clogging of second filter 2. Furthermore, a filtration device is realized with which the gel film of second filter that becomes adsorbed onto the surface of first filter can be separated readily by stopping the suction and filtration can be continued again thereafter.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2002Publication date: May 15, 2003Inventors: Motoyuki Tsuihiji, Hirofumi Iinuma, Hiroyuki Umezawa, Masahiro Iseki
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Publication number: 20030075515Abstract: An oil recovery system that separates oil hydrocarbons from an oil-containing sludge. The oil recovery system includes a sludge containment vessel, and a primary separation unit to remove large solids from a sludge mixture that forms in the sludge containment vessel. The primary separation unit is selected from a shale shaker, a centrifuge, or a filter press. The invention is also directed to a method of separating oil from an oil-containing sludge.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2002Publication date: April 24, 2003Inventor: Roger Maki
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Patent number: 6547965Abstract: A modularized filtration system includes multiple production modules mechanically coupled in series to form a production chain, and fluidly coupled by parallel feed fluid, waste fluid, and product fluid flowpaths. The system also includes a turbine, work exchange unit, or other energy recovery device to extract energy from the waste fluid. The system may also advantageously include a pressurization device for pressurizing a feed fluid, and provide a common drive shaft for the energy recovery and pressurization devices.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2000Date of Patent: April 15, 2003Assignee: Nate InternationalInventor: Dennis Chancellor
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Patent number: 6533946Abstract: An apparatus and method for recycling drilling mud contaminated with particulates, consists of channelling a stream of contaminated slurry onto a screen deck, with the partly cleansed liquid entering a mixing tank. Liquid within the tank is continually mixed. An exit conduit removes liquid from the tank on a continuous basis, where it is given an additional purification with a cyclonic separator. The heavier fraction is further screened, with the resulting purified liquid re-entering the tank. The lighter fraction exists the cyclonic separator, and a portion of the lighter liquid is withdrawn for use as a substantially cleansed liquid. Another portion of the lighter fraction is re-circulated back into the tank, thus providing multi passes through the system to provide enhanced purification. The cleansed liquid may be directed into a separate mixing apparatus, in which additional slurry-forming powder such as Bentonite is added for forming a new slurry.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2001Date of Patent: March 18, 2003Assignee: Roger H. Woods LimitedInventor: Doug Pullman
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Patent number: 6527960Abstract: A process for separating oily films from sand particles carried in a solvent free water stream includes the use of a jet pump scrubber in a density classification tank to treat such oily coated particles at controlled operating temperatures above 65° C. whereby, at such controlled temperature, enhanced cavitation in the jet pump separates the oily film from the sand particles to form slop oil, the tank providing for recirculation of the particles through the jet pump before discharge.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2000Date of Patent: March 4, 2003Assignee: Canadian Environmental Equipment & Engineering Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Diana L. Bacon, Patrick J. Cochrane, Wade R Bozak, Roderick M. Facey
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Publication number: 20030034305Abstract: A water supply sub-system for connection to a main water supply system, in which the sub-system includes: a storage tank having an inlet for connection to the main water supply system, an outlet and an outlet line connecting the outlet of the storage tank to a pump which pumps water from the tank to a sub-system supply line. One or more branch connections are connected to the sub-system supply line. Connectable to the one or more branch connections are one or more high-demand water using devices, such as dialyzer re-use machines. The subsystem may feed water to these high demand devices, and the sub-system and the one or more high demand devices may thus be substantially isolated from the main water supply system so that the high demands thereof will not adversely impact the water supply parameters. Thus, one or more lower demand machines, such as dialysis machines, may be connected to the main line without supply parameter disruption thereto.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 7, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: Gambro, Inc.Inventors: Douglas A. Luehmann, Johnny W. Hannah, Stephen M. Mullins, John D. Bielefeld
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Publication number: 20030010719Abstract: A method and device for renal replacement therapy is described that sterile-filters solution that can subsequently be used as a replacement fluid in the same unit. The devices and methods include a pump that can be reversed from its normal forward-pumping direction to sterilize a container of replacement fluid to produce sterile replacement fluid. The sterile replacement fluid is captured in a fluid bag. Upon sterilization of the contents of the container, the pump switches to run in its normal forward-pumping direction. The sterile replacement fluid produced by the previous process is now injected into a patient to perform renal replacement therapy. The waste produced during the renal replacement therapy can be trapped in the container that previously held the non-sterile solution. Systems for sterile filtration and subsequent renal replacement therapy that include pre-connected, sterilized, disposable kits for fluid management and batch collection of sterilized fluid are also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 12, 2001Publication date: January 16, 2003Applicant: NxStage Medical, Inc.Inventors: James M. Brugger, Jeffrey H. Burbank, Dennis M. Treu
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Publication number: 20030010717Abstract: Systems and methods handle air and rinsing fluid during fluid processing. The systems and methods eliminate air from a fluid processing system prior to, during, and after use. The systems and methods provide a connector assembly for establishing fluid flow from a fluid source. The connector assembly has discrete first and second passages that prevent communication between the fluid in first passage and the fluid in the second passage. Prior to system use, the connector assembly may be utilized in a priming function to remove residual air from a fluid circuit prior to use. The connector assembly may also be utilized after use to perform a rinse-back function. The rinse-back function serves to remove residual fluid from the system after use. The connector assembly can comprise two, single lumen connectors or one connector with two lumens.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 13, 2001Publication date: January 16, 2003Applicant: NX Stage Medical, Inc.Inventors: James M. Brugger, Dennis M. Treu