Diverse Patents (Class 210/259)
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Publication number: 20120067815Abstract: A bioartificial kidney equivalent and a process for producing the bioartificial kidney equivalent. The hybrid bioartificial kidney comprises human proximal and distal renal tubule cells grown on particular synthetic membranes.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2009Publication date: March 22, 2012Applicant: GAMBRO LUNDIA ABInventors: David Luttropp, Bernd Krause, Markus Neubauer, Reinhold Deppisch, Doris Deppisch, Andrea Schnell, Helmut Geiger, Juergen Bereiter-Hahn, Patrick Baer
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Patent number: 8137564Abstract: An apparatus for and method of filtering hydrocarbon contaminated water is disclosed herein. The present invention may be used in drainage openings, particularly in parking lots and containment areas for large sources of hydrocarbons such as oil tanks or electrical transformers, to remove hydrocarbons from hydrocarbon contaminated water. The apparatus has a filtration compartment which filters out debris and sediment which may clog the treatment compartment. A pre-filter attachable to the apparatus may be used to further aid in filtering out sediment. A means for melting snow and ice may be incorporated within the filtration compartment such that liquid flow is not hindered during extreme weather conditions. The treatment compartment contains a hydrocarbon absorption media which absorbs any hydrocarbons present in the water rendering such water substantially hydrocarbon-free for discharge directly into a stream or groundwater.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2002Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignee: SPI Filtration LLCInventor: William J Gannon
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Patent number: 8137553Abstract: The application is directed to an extracorporeal blood processing system capable of using dialysate to prime the system. A plastic molded compact manifold supports molded blood and dialysate fluidic pathways along with relevant sensors, valves and pumps. The compact manifold is also disposable in one embodiment and can be detachably installed in the dialysis machine. A two-way valve in the manifold is used to direct the dialysate flow through the blood circuit to prime the circuit for use in treatment.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2009Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignee: Fresenius Medical Care Holdings, Inc.Inventors: Barry Neil Fulkerson, Martin Hering, Frank Isackson
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Patent number: 8137539Abstract: The invention provides a process for purifying water containing soluble species capable of forming one or more sparingly soluble salts or minerals, said process comprising feeding a pressurized water stream into a treatment zone having one or more membranes disposed therein, passing said stream along said membrane(s) to recover a permeate and to withdraw a concentrate therefrom while periodically reversing the direction of the flow of said stream in said treatment zone, wherein the periodicity of the flow reversal is such that said one or more membranes are exposed to supersaturation conditions evolving in said water stream for a period of time which is less then the time required for said supersaturated water stream to precipitate one or more of said sparingly soluble salts and/or minerals therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2004Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignee: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev Research and Development AuthorityInventors: Jack Gilron, Eliyahu Korin
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Patent number: 8137550Abstract: A fluid remediation system for removing particulates from an aqueous stream having a separation component and a clarifier component is described herein. The separation component can include a frame, a scalping shaker for receiving a primary slurry and forming a first effluent, a mud cleaner for receiving the first effluent and forming a second effluent, a desilter for receiving the second effluent and forming a third effluent, a tank for containing the effluents, agitators in the tank, and pumps for pumping the effluents. The clarifier component can include a second frame and a second tank for receiving the third effluent from the separation component, which forms a sludge and a clean effluent. The system can include a controller for controlling the system.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2010Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignee: Tri-Flo International, Inc.Inventor: Edward Beverly Moe
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Patent number: 8137542Abstract: Disclosed is a water treatment system including a raw water tank, a module which includes a filtration membrane, a feed pump, a filtered water tank, a backwash pump which flows filtered water backward from the filtered water tank to the module, a valve and a channel which switch the direction of the water flow between the forward and reverse directions, a controller which suspends the supply of raw water from the raw water tank to the module, switches the valve and channel to the reverse direction, makes the backwash pump to supply filtered water from the filtered water tank to the module thereby backwashing the filtration membrane, and washing drainage treatment line including which treats backwashing drainage generated by backwashing of the filtration membrane, and returns the water to the raw water tank.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2008Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventors: Norimitsu Abe, Seiichi Murayama, Takeshi Ide, Akira Morikawa, Shojiro Tamaki
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Patent number: 8133385Abstract: A grey water treatment system for use in conjunction with a water softener, including a grey water holding tank including a first inlet configured to receive grey water and a second inlet configured to receive spent brine from the water softener. The spent brine is mixed with the grey water in the holding tank to flocculate suspended solids in the grey water for subsequent removal.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2009Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: Culligan International CompanyInventors: Kumudika Premathilake, Gene Wayman, Sharyn Schnabel, Kerry Quinn
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Patent number: 8133389Abstract: The PRP separator-concentrator of this invention is suitable for office use or emergency use for trauma victims. The PRP separator comprises a motorized centrifugal separation assembly, and a concentrator assembly. The centrifugal separator assembly comprises a centrifugal drum separator that includes an erythrocyte capture module and a motor having a drive axis connected to the centrifugal drum separator. The concentrator assembly comprises a water-removal module for preparing PRP concentrate. The centrifugal drum separator has an erythrocyte trap. The water removal module can be a syringe device with water absorbing beads or it can be a pump-hollow fiber cartridge assembly. The hollow fibers are membranes with pores that allow the flow of water through the fiber membrane while excluding flow of clotting factors useful for sealing and adhering tissue and growth factors helpful for healing while avoiding activation of platelets and disruption of any trace erythrocytes present in the PRP.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2011Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignees: Hanuman, LLC, Biomet Biologics, LLCInventors: Randel Dorian, Michael D. Leach
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Publication number: 20120058023Abstract: The present invention relates to a multifunctional module comprising one or more units selected from the group consisting of reactor units, filter units, membrane units, reactor-separator units, clarificator units, purificator units, extractor units, and mixer units. The units are connected parallel or in series or both to each other, and each unit has at least one member having a surface, which surface is rotating with the member. The member is rotating around an axis making the unit operate under centrifugal force. One or more chambers for fluids are co-rotating with the rotating member. The present invention relates further to units which could be used in a spinning multifunctional module, and use of a spinning multifunctional module.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 4, 2010Publication date: March 8, 2012Applicant: ALFA LAVAL CORPORATE ABInventors: Kasper Höglund, Barry Johnson, Tommy Noren
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Publication number: 20120055864Abstract: Dialysis treatment devices and methods for removing urea from dialysis waste streams are provided. In a general embodiment, the present disclosure provides a dialysis treatment device including: 1) a first filter having a filtration membrane, 2) a urea removal unit having urease and in fluid communication with the first filter, and 3) a second filter having an ion rejection membrane and in fluid communication with the first filter and the urea removal unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 15, 2011Publication date: March 8, 2012Applicants: BAXTER HEALTHCARE S.A., BAXTER INTERNATIONAL INC.Inventors: Yuanpang Samuel Ding, Ying-Cheng Lo
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Publication number: 20120048806Abstract: Systems and methods for removing phosphorous (P) from P-containing wastewater are disclosed. The system includes a main filter unit (MFU) comprising P-adsorbing material. The MFU receives the P-containing wastewater and forms therefrom MFU-filtered wastewater having a first pH. A pH adjusting unit (AU) that contains pH-reducing material receives the MFU-filtered wastewater and forms therefrom AU-filtered wastewater having a second pH lower than the first pH. A replaceable filter unit (RFU) similar to the MFU but smaller may be arranged upstream of the MFU to pre-filter the P-containing wastewater. Some or all of the RFU may be replaced when maintaining the system.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2010Publication date: March 1, 2012Inventors: Aleksandra Drizo, Hugo Picard
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Publication number: 20120042677Abstract: A water filter assembly including a water filter housing and a manifold coupled to the water filter housing. The manifold includes an inlet and an outlet. Filters are disposed in the water filter housing. The water filter assembly has a door. The door is disposed on the water filter housing providing selective access to the water filter housing. The door is connected to the water filter housing to open and close to replace the plurality of filters. The water filter assembly also has a valve associated with at least one of the plurality of filters. The valve is manipulated from an opened to a closed position to close the inlet when the filters are removed from the water filter housing.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 17, 2010Publication date: February 23, 2012Inventor: Alan Joseph Mitchell
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Patent number: 8114288Abstract: An extracorporeal blood processing system comprises a plastic molded compact manifold that supports a plurality of molded blood and dialysate fluidic pathways along with a plurality of relevant sensors, valves and pumps. A disposable dialyzer is connected to the molded manifold to complete the blood circuit of the system. The compact manifold is also disposable in one embodiment and can be detachably installed in the dialysis machine. Two-way valves in the manifold are used to direct the dialysate flow to the dialyzer in hemodialysis mode of operation and to bypass the dialyzer to direct the flow of infusion grade dialysate directly to the patient in hemofiltration mode of operation.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2008Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Fresenlus Medical Care Holdings, Inc.Inventors: Thomas Patrick Robinson, Charles E. Clemens, David Jacob Mishelevich, James Roswell Braig, Barry Neil Fulkerson, Daniele Ghidoli, Russell Thomas Joseph
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Patent number: 8110106Abstract: An apparatus for the anaerobic digestion of solid waste is disclosed. The apparatus includes a pre-digestion treatment chamber and an anaerobic digester chamber coupled to the pre-digestion treatment chamber. A liquid suspension of solid waste is pretreated under aerobic conditions by heating to a desired pre-digestion temperature. One or more chemical or biological additives are added to the suspension of solid waste to improve the anaerobic digestibility of the solid waste. This may include enzymes to destruct poorly digestible solids and/or materials to provide a desired C:N ratio in the solid waste. The apparatus may include mixers, heaters, chemical or biological additives as needed, various sensors and probes, and a control system to monitor and control the anaerobic digestion process and maintain microbial health of the digester.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2009Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Assignee: Water Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Stephen D. Allen, Dallas K. Isom
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Patent number: 8110105Abstract: A stormwater filtration system suitable for treatment of stormwater runoff in a developed environment uses a primary treatment bay that includes a filtration bed with live plant matter. A second treatment bay treats water that exceeds the maximum throughput of the primary bay. A reservoir stores treated runoff to water the plants during dry weather. Removable trays on the surface of the primary filtration bed provide plants suitable for ground cover. Additional bays expand the filtration bed throughput and accommodate extended root systems. A flow control may be provided for the primary treatment bay.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2009Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Assignee: Contech Stormwater Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Vaikko P. Allen, II, Jeremiah M. Lehman, James H. Lenhart, Jr., Hong Lin, Daniel P. Cobb, Gregory W. Byrne
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Publication number: 20120018365Abstract: A process for purification of fluids, for example, desalination of seawater or brackish water, using organic solutes in a concentrated water solution for use in a forward osmosis process, to extract fresh water out of salt water through the forward osmosis membrane, and subsequently separating the organic solutes out of the diluted forward osmosis permeate by cloud point extraction, thereby regenerating a concentrated organic solution for recycling to the forward osmosis process, and fresh water for potable water use.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2011Publication date: January 26, 2012Applicant: NRGTEK, INC.Inventor: Subramanian IYER
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Patent number: 8101077Abstract: A device for separating platelets from a fluid suspension comprises a mixing chamber operable to receive and mix fluid suspensions and an aggregating agent to form platelet aggregates and residual fluid components. A filter can be configured to be in fluid communication with the mixing chamber and can be further configured to collect platelet aggregates and allow residual fluid components to pass therethrough. The mixing chamber and the filter are operable by a user without input from an external energy source.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2006Date of Patent: January 24, 2012Inventors: Sivaprasad Sukavaneshvar, S. Fazal Mohammad
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Patent number: 8101080Abstract: An advanced water treatment method processes a continuous flow of water in a sequence of stages including pre-filtering to remove solids, conditioning to adjust pH, blending with a recycled dense microalgae culture, and passing the resulting mixture through an enclosed, environmentally-controlled photobioreactor where nutrients, PCB's, trace metals and other pollutants and regulated compounds are taken up by the algae. The flow from the PBR is separated using cross-flow filtration to produce a treated water flow and a dense microalgae flow that is recycled to the blending stage upstream. Thus, whereas the algae is recycled, the water entering the system is treated by flowing sequentially through the stages of the system, without any recycling or repetition of treatment stages.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2011Date of Patent: January 24, 2012Assignee: AlgEvolve, LLCInventors: Terry S. Robinson, Kevin S. McGraw, Jared W. Sylvester, Jesse D. Weidow
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Patent number: 8097172Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for recovering organic compounds from plant waste water. A saturator (10) is coupled to a feed gas stream (70) and a heated makeup water stream (54) which includes recoverable organic compounds. The saturator provides a saturated feed gas stream (70) which includes feed gas, steam and recovered organic compounds. A pump (30) recycles saturator water (56) and the makeup water stream (50) is added to that recycle stream (54).Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2005Date of Patent: January 17, 2012Assignee: Aker Kvaerner, Inc.Inventors: Muhammad Nazrul Islam, Gwo-Jang Abraham Liou, Stephen D. York
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Patent number: 8097155Abstract: An above ground water clarifier is described. The clarifier includes a spray system for receiving water from an external system and disposing the water onto a filter tray rack. A first recovery chamber is positioned below the filter tray rack for receiving filtered water that is gravity fed through the filter tray rack. A second recovery chamber is positioned adjacent to and fluidly connected with the first recovery chamber. The first and second recovery chambers are formed to filter out solids and/or oils before passing the water to a sump chamber and/or the sewer. The sump chamber includes a plurality of tiered pumps for pumping the water back to the external system.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2009Date of Patent: January 17, 2012Inventor: G. Thomas Ennis
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Patent number: 8092678Abstract: A method of wastewater treatment is described. The method includes: (i) receiving wastewater; (ii) performing a first type of treatment on wastewater to produce wastewater having a first property which is capable of changing; (iii) preventing the first property from changing; (iv) performing a second type of treatment on wastewater; and wherein the first property includes at least one property selected from a group consisting of biochemical oxygen demand (“BOD”) level, dissolved oxygen level, solid content and nutrient level.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2008Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: Protech Services, Inc.Inventor: Christopher Ott
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Patent number: 8092680Abstract: Provided herein are methods and system for the production of biogas, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency classified Class A Biosolids, and pathogen reduced organic liquid fertilizer. Through the digestion of waste materials using sequential phases in an efficient digestion process, enhanced biomass conversion efficiency and improved output of products (in quantity and/or quality) are obtained with a significant reduction in dwell time in each phase.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2008Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: Landmark Structures I, LPInventor: Detlev K. Johnson
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Patent number: 8083939Abstract: A screen nozzle for a media retention screen is disclosed which includes a nipple, a bottom cover, a top cover, and a cylindrical screen element sandwiched between the top and bottom covers. The top cover is secured to the bottom cover by means of a threaded rod extending from either the bottom cover or the nipple through the interior of the screen through an aperture in the top cover with the top cover being retained in place by a nut or the like. The nipple is secured to the bottom cover by swaging and the threaded rod is welded to the bottom cover. Assembling the screen element using an internal threaded rod has two substantial advantages over existing screen nozzles. The first advantage is that there are no external welds which may damage or deform or foul the screen and which are also are potential areas of weaknesses which may be subject to corrosion. Secondly the screen element may be replaced without removing the nozzle from the screen plate.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2004Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Assignee: Weatherford Australia Pty LimitedInventor: Murray Frank Dowsett
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Patent number: 8083942Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods and systems for purifying liquids. In a particular implementation, the system includes a forward-osmosis unit for diluting a water source for a downstream desalination unit. A pretreatment unit may be located hydraulically upstream of the desalination unit, such as upstream or downstream of the forward-osmosis unit. In certain embodiments, the system includes an extraction unit for extracting a relatively easily extractable osmotic agent from an osmotic draw solution. The system may include one or more forward-osmosis units downstream of the desalination unit for diluting a concentrated brine stream produced by the desalination unit. In particular embodiments, a downstream forward-osmosis unit uses the concentrated brine stream as an osmotic agent, such as to extract water from seawater or brackish water. Another downstream forward-osmosis unit may use impaired water as a feed stream.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2005Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Assignee: Board of Regents of the Nevada System of Higher Education, on Behalf of the Universary of Nevada, RenoInventors: Tzahi Y. Cath, Amy E. Childress
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Publication number: 20110309038Abstract: A filtering device uses a filtration unit for filtering raw water, and the filtration unit has a depth filter forming a filtration membrane thereof and a housing accommodating the depth filter. The housing includes a raw water inlet port for supplying the raw water to the depth filter, a filtrate water outlet port, a gas-supplying port for supplying compressed air into the filtration unit to clean the depth filter, and a drain port for discharging the compressed air together with the raw water. A pore diameter of the filtration membrane is designed within a range of 1 to 25 ?m. The filtering device includes a filtrate water supplying passage connected to the filtrate water outlet port, a discharge passage connected to the drain port, a communication passage for communicating filtrate water supplying passage with the discharge passage, and a motor valve for opening and closing the communication passage.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 12, 2010Publication date: December 22, 2011Applicant: Kuraray Co., Ltd.Inventor: Keido Inoue
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Publication number: 20110303589Abstract: A portable water treatment system includes at least one sub-system to treat water including a flocculation system, a chlorination system, and a bio-sand filter system. The water treatment system may include multiple sub-systems for treating water that feed into one another. The sand filter system may include a mini bio-sand filter, a foam filter, or a pressed block filter. The flocculation system may include a tank bottom that urges settling particles toward a sump and a ladle that removes settled particles. A manual pump or siphon may be included in the water treatment system.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 12, 2010Publication date: December 15, 2011Applicant: ACCESS BUSINESS GROUP INTERNATIONAL LLCInventors: Roy W. Kuennen, Terry L. Lautzenheiser, Roy M. Taylor, JR., William T. Stoner, JR., Kenneth E. Conrad, Karen J. VanderKooi, Brian S. Beals, Ryan D. Schamper
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Publication number: 20110297609Abstract: A potable water system (10) comprises a supply line (18) and a water-purification device (20) incorporated thereinto. The water-purification device (20) comprises a microorganism filter (40) having a housing (42) and replaceable cartridge (42). The cartridge's filter media (50) includes a microorganism-capturing membrane (e.g., comprising an electropositive material) and a microorganism-killing membrane (e.g., comprising a biocidal material).Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2011Publication date: December 8, 2011Inventor: Jin Hu
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Publication number: 20110284482Abstract: The invention relates to a process for separating off solid particles, in particular coke particles, from a water phase by means of gravity in a plant for generating hydrocarbons by cracking a hydrocarbonaceous feed, and also to a device for carrying out the process. In contrast to the prior art, the water phase is taken off predominantly from a point above the column bottom B via the outlet A. The first gravity separator 2 which is constructed as a multistage settling tank 2 is situated not beneath, but next to, the scrubbing water column 1. The bottom phase of the scrubbing water column 1 already acts as a part of the first gravity separator 2. Thus, via the outlet 5 in the column bottom B, a heavy water phase which is loaded with coke particles is already taken off and passed into the second gravity separator 3. This heavy water phase is further treated, together with the heavy water phase which is loaded with coke particles from the recesses 6 of the multistage settling tank 2.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 15, 2010Publication date: November 24, 2011Applicant: Linda AGInventors: Michael Baus, Gerhard Alzner
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Publication number: 20110277670Abstract: Systems and methods for lowering levels of carbon dioxide and other atmospheric pollutants are provided. Economically viable systems and processes capable of removing vast quantities of carbon dioxide and other atmospheric pollutants from gaseous waste streams and sequestering them in storage-stable forms are also discussed.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2010Publication date: November 17, 2011Inventors: Kyle Self, Kasra Farsad, Robert W. Elliott, Brian Curtis, Srikanth Bellur
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Publication number: 20110259805Abstract: A system for, and method of, removing particulate material from wastewater discharged from an industrial source.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 21, 2011Publication date: October 27, 2011Inventors: KURT STANDLEY, TROY HARTZELL
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Patent number: 8043506Abstract: The invention is directed to a process for the anaerobic purification of waste water using a sludge bed system, which process comprises feeding waste water, and optionally recycle water, to the lower part of an upflow reactor, containing mainly granular biomass thus producing biogas in the treatment passing the resulting gas/liquid/solid mixture upward and separating the gas and solid from the liquid in a three phase separator and thereby generating an anaerobic effluent that is withdrawn from the top of the separator, the improvement comprising separating the solids from the liquid in a separator, wherein, above the separation of the gas from the liquid phase, tilted plates, tubes or other tilted internals are installed in the three phase separator body to increase the effective settling surface, to an upflow reactor suitable for this process as well as to a three phase separator.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2007Date of Patent: October 25, 2011Assignee: Biothane Systems International B.V.Inventors: Robertus Johannes Frankin, Michaël Johannes Otten
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Patent number: 8043496Abstract: A method and apparatus for extracting oil from algae comprises a disruptor (125) having a plurality of deflectors (220 and 225) against which a mixture of algae and water (100) is forcibly impacted upon the urging of a pump (115). The impacting of the algal cells against the deflectors ruptures their cell walls and liberates the lipids (oil) and other materials contained therein. A tank (130) collects the mixture and after a settling period, the mixture forms at least three layers comprising oil (155), water (160), and algal residue (165). The oil layer is removed through one or more conduits (177, 178) into a holding tank (185) for further refining and use. The water is discarded, and the biomass residue comprising algal cell walls and other non-oil components is removed to another holding container (199) from which it can be discarded or used as an agricultural fertilizer or the like. If desired, the residue can be further treated in order to scavenge any remaining oil.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2008Date of Patent: October 25, 2011Inventors: Peter Allen Schuh, Allen John Schuh
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Publication number: 20110253626Abstract: The installation comprises three reaction vessels (100, 200, 300) in series, each containing an aqueous phase and a specific bacterial population. The vessels serve in succession to dissolve the liquid feedstock for treatment by enzymatic hydrolysis, then to biodegrade the resulting effluent by biological digestion, and finally to reduce the residual bacterial components by biological action. The vessels are mutually isolated by tangential filters (108, 208, 308) and by centrifugal separators (212, 312) for filtering the biomass from the reaction products. The result is a final liquid effluent (EFF/N) that is essentially non-organic, with the filtered biomass downstream constituting an ultimate organic waste (DU) of reduced volume.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2009Publication date: October 20, 2011Inventor: William Everett
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Publication number: 20110253634Abstract: The present invention provides systems, methods and devices for removing contaminants from an aqueous stream. In embodiments, these systems and methods may be applied to particular applications, for example removal of contaminants in aqueous streams associated with the petroleum industry.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 20, 2010Publication date: October 20, 2011Inventors: David Soane, Cheng Hu, Robert P. Mahoney, William Ware, JR.
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Patent number: 8038875Abstract: A practical treatment apparatus for ship ballast water, which can kill aquatic organisms contained in the ballast water, is provided by being easily incorporated in an existing ballast-water system piping in a ship.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2007Date of Patent: October 18, 2011Assignee: Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yasuwo Fukuyo, Takeaki Kikuchi, Jun Waki, Seiji Kino, Kazunobu Hirao, Katsumi Yoshida, Syuji Ueki
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Patent number: 8021542Abstract: A water recovery method and apparatus which uses a desiccant, such as lithium chloride, to recover water vapor from the engine exhaust of a vehicle. The apparatus uses liquid-contactor to transfer water vapor from the vehicle exhaust to the liquid desiccant. The desiccant is then transferred to a reverse osmosis system which separates the liquid desiccant into potable water and a concentrated desiccant.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2007Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventor: Richard Eugene Kirts
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Publication number: 20110220573Abstract: A system for separating solids from fluid including a solid-laden fluid including a base fluid, a first separator configured to receive the solid-laden fluid and separate the fluid into a solids portion and an effluent, and a membrane separator configured to receive the effluent and separate the effluent into a permeate and a concentrate is disclosed. A method for separating solids from fluid including obtaining a solid-laden fluid, wherein the solid-laden fluid comprises a base fluid, feeding the solid-laden fluid through a centrifuge, removing at least a portion of high gravity solids from the solid-laden fluids, flowing the solid-laden fluid through a membrane separator, removing at least a portion of low gravity solids from the solid-laden fluid, and collecting a permeate from the membrane separator is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 10, 2010Publication date: September 15, 2011Applicant: M-I L.L.C.Inventors: Rahul Dixit, Mukesh Kapila
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Publication number: 20110203993Abstract: Methods and apparatus relate to treating fluid to at least reduce selenium content within the fluid. The treating includes conditioning stages to alter a composition of the fluid prior to removal of the selenium content from the fluid. The composition of the fluid after the conditioning stages facilitates the removal of the selenium content or at least limits detrimental impact to selenium removal efficiency.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2011Publication date: August 25, 2011Applicant: ConocoPhillips CompanyInventors: Mark A. Hughes, Charles J. Lord, III, Bruce B. Randolph, Joe B. Cross, Sumod Kalakkunnath, Mike K. Corbett, Roger K. Goenner, Larry E. Reed
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Publication number: 20110198276Abstract: A method and system for removing from an aqueous system which is contaminated therewith: (1) mercury present as colloids, ions and/or organically bound compounds, and (2) hydrocarbons solubilized, dispersed, and/or emulsified in the said system. Pursuant to the invention the aqueous system to be treated (such as “produced water”)is passed successively through three filtration stages. The first filtration stage is provided with absorption media which effects reduction/removal of dispersed organically bound mercury species and of the dispersed and partially dissolved hydrocarbon phases, as well as of some colloidal mercury and other dissolved metallic species. The second filtration stage utilizes a salt modified reticulated granular filtration media for reduction/removal of slightly dissolved hydrocarbon phases, mercury in colloidal and ionic form and other dissolved metals.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 1, 2011Publication date: August 18, 2011Inventor: Hal Alper
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Patent number: 7998347Abstract: An assembly for filtering contaminants from automatic transmission fluid includes a housing including a first inlet and a second inlet, through which fluid enters the housing, and an outlet, through which fluid exits the housing; a first media filter located within the housing in a first fluid flow path between the first inlet and the outlet; and a second media filter located within the housing in a second fluid flow path between the second inlet and the outlet.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2008Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Lev Pekarsky, Robb D. Pratt
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Publication number: 20110195468Abstract: A system or plant and method for the production of pure alcohol, acetic acid or its derivatives from the extract containing hemicelluloses filtered after extraction of woody biomass or directly extracted from woody biomass. The process can be integrated with the host plant process to minimize the effect of loss of heat value from the extracted hemicelluloses and reduce the loading to the effluent plant.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 13, 2011Publication date: August 11, 2011Applicant: American Process, Inc.Inventors: Theodora Retsina, Vesa Pylkkanen
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Patent number: 7993521Abstract: A plant for generating biogas from organic biodegradable material containing liquid and solid components, such as waste products, in particular liquid manure from agricultural enterprises, comprises a biogas generation container (9) having a feed for the degradable material and a biogas collection zone (6) having a biogas outlet, and a flotation separation unit having a microbubble generation unit (15) for separating off the solid components from the liquid components of the degradable material. The flotation separation unit comprises a chamber region (14) which is delimited in the interior of the biogas generation container and essentially active in the direction of gravity and having a closed bottom and an open upper end arranged below the liquid level of the biogas generation container. Clarified liquid form the chamber region and a gas, in particular the biogas from the biogas collection region, can be fed to the microbubble generation unit for charging the liquid with gas.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2006Date of Patent: August 9, 2011Inventors: Dietrich Eichler, Friedrich Weigand, Matthias Rabener
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Publication number: 20110189361Abstract: Implements for decolorization, deodorization and deoxidization of used or filtered spent cooking oil are disclosed to improve on the service life of cooking oil and the health aspects of fried foods. This can be achieved on a small to large scale by simple implements filled with a mixture of plant-based granulated activated carbons and antioxidants, wherein the implements can be immersed in a frying appliance, such as a pot, a vat, a pan, a deep fryer and the like, containing used oil or in a storage unit of filtered oil. The overall safety, palatability and economics of a food preparation process are determined by the ease of oil containment and cleanup during and after frying with oil.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 2, 2010Publication date: August 4, 2011Applicant: TECHNOLOGY INTERNATIONAL, INC.Inventors: Ramu M. RAO, Abdulrahman Foad ABDULFATTAH, Abdo A. HUSSEINY
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Patent number: 7987771Abstract: A pump unit includes a reservoir for containing a liquid, a duct system for conveying the liquid, and a pumping section for subjecting the liquid to a pumping force. The initial filling of at least a portion of a duct for conveying the liquid from the reservoir to the pumping section is brought about under the influence of another force other than the pumping force, for example, under the influence of gravity.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2006Date of Patent: August 2, 2011Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventors: Paulus Cornelis Duineveld, Fred Fraij, Marinus Christiaan Hansen, Joeke Noordhuis
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Publication number: 20110180478Abstract: Filtration systems containing a filtration medium and methods related thereto are described herein. The filtration system includes a plurality of fibers of spoolable length, where the fibers are a carbon nanotube-infused fiber material. The filtration systems can be operated with reel-to-reel processing or in a continuous manner in order to sorb hydrophobic materials from a liquid medium. The filtration systems also include various means to remove the hydrophobic materials from the filtration medium, including press rollers and chemical extraction baths. Illustrative liquid media that can be treated with the filtration systems include, for example, hydrophobic materials admixed in an aqueous phase, bilayers (e.g., oil-water bilayers), oil in a subterranean formation, water sources containing trace organic pollutants or trace organic compounds, and fermentation broths.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 21, 2011Publication date: July 28, 2011Applicant: APPLIED NANOSTRUCTURED SOLUTIONS, LLCInventors: Tushar K. SHAH, Harry C. MALECKI
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Patent number: 7976709Abstract: A system comprising a blood circuit including a membrane arranged in a blood filter (7) in which blood is in contact with a first side of said membrane; and a dialysis circuit in which a dialysis fluid is in contact with the other side of the membrane for exchange of substances and ions through the membrane as well as water. The dialysis fluid is circulated from a dialysis compartment and through a RO filter (9). The permeate fluid, i.e. water is returned to the dialysis compartment. The retentate fluid from the RO filter (9) passes through a separation filter (13). The retentate fluid is returned to the dialysis compartment and the permeate fluid is removed from the dialysis circuit as a waste fluid to a receptacle (19). The retentate fluid is concentrated in the RO filter in a ration of at least 3:1.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2006Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Assignee: Triomed ABInventors: Anders Wallenas, Lars Wramner
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Patent number: 7976707Abstract: In treating organic-containing wastewater by a biological treatment in a stage prior to a advanced treatment such as membrane separation or the like, the amount of the biological metabolites produced in the biological treatment step is reduced to reduce the amount of the organic substances flowing into the advanced treatment step in a latter stage, thereby making the advanced treatment stable and efficient and efficiently recovering treated water of high quality. Water anaerobically biologically treated in an anaerobic reaction tank 11 including an acid production tank 11A and a UASB reaction tank 11B is subjected to a coagulation treatment and then to solid-liquid separation in a No. 1 sedimentation tank 14. The resultant separated water is aerobically biologically treated water is subjected to a coagulation treatment and then to solid-liquid separation in a No. 2 sedimentation tank 24.Type: GrantFiled: December 25, 2006Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Assignee: Kurita Water Industries Ltd.Inventors: Michiaki Tanaka, Yoshimi Taguchi
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Patent number: 7972500Abstract: A wastewater purifying apparatus has plural treatment chambers for stepwise purifying wastewater discharged from a lavatory, a storage chamber for storing purified wastewater derived from the downstream-most treatment chamber, and a purified wastewater storage tank. A suction port is formed in the upstream-most treatment chamber for sucking the wastewater. Refluxing equipment refluxes wastewater from the treatment chambers downstream of the upstream-most treatment chamber into the upstream most treatment chamber. A purified wastewater supplier supplies the purified wastewater in the purified wastewater storage tank into the upstream-most treatment chamber. The above arrangement performs expedient and sophisticated purification treatment of the wastewater containing sludge components, such as sewage discharged from the lavatory, or miscellaneous effluents generated by pulverizing garbage by a disposer. The arrangement also simplifies washing of the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2004Date of Patent: July 5, 2011Assignee: Eiwa Land Environment Co., LtdInventor: Ryoichi Okamoto
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Publication number: 20110159533Abstract: A device for capturing suspended bioparticles in a liquid medium, includes: a tube (101) including first and second ends, the first end of the tube being closed by the surface of a filter membrane (102) rendered stationary by adhesion onto the cross-section of the walls of the tube, a piston (104) including a rod (107) connected to a bearing element (108), the rod sliding along an axis parallel to the wall of the tube (101), and a block (103) of hydrophilic absorbent material placed inside the tube (101), inserted between (i) the inner surface of the filter membrane (102) and (ii) the piston (104) bearing element (108).Type: ApplicationFiled: July 24, 2009Publication date: June 30, 2011Inventor: Bastien Karkouche
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Patent number: 7967151Abstract: A money saving universal fuel recycling machine has a reservoir for receiving fuel from a used fuel filter or other source of used or old fuel. A pumping device selectively moves the fuel from the reservoir through the filtration devices. Each filtration device has a lower portion for collecting water and other waste material for selective removal to a waste receptacle. The filter fuel that can be selectively routed to either a new fuel filter or a recycled fuel container.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2008Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: K.J. Manufacturing Co.Inventors: Ram D. Bedi, George R. Blundy