Abstract: Sand is discharged from a vessel at an elevated pressure and is delivered at a lower pressure. The sand is subjected to the following steps before delivery: I) dilution with a dilution fluid, ii) passage through at least one pressure reducing cyclone, the dilution being such that flashing is reduced, and iii) delivery as a slurry at the delivery pressure. This results in less wear of the components.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for filtering or purifying water.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for recycling a wash solution used in powder coating which uses filters. The invention also relates to methods and apparatuses for recycling wash solutions used in spray washing, steam cleaning or car washes using filters.

Abstract: A water treatment system for treating water. The water treatment system includes a primary water treatment station and a solid-based sulfurous generator downstream from the primary water treatment station for producing aqueous sulfurous acid for further treatment of the water. In one embodiment, the solid-based sulfurous generator includes a hydraulic air inlet shut off valve safety system for automatically reducing the combustion air to the sulfurous generator when water is not delivered to the solid-based sulfurous generator. Also, in one embodiment, the water treatment system includes a control system that monitors the pH of the treated water to control the water flow rate through the solid-based sulfurous generator to achieve the desired concentration of sulfurous acid in the water being treated.

Abstract: An extracorpeal blood circuit for removal of contrast from human blood using a filter and withdrawal filter pump and a by-pass pump. The withdrawal filter blood pump operates when a contrast bolus has been detected. Otherwise the bypass blood pump maintains physiological blood flow from the coronary sinus preventing the need for deflation and re-inflation of the balloon catheter. When contrast is detected blood the bypass blood pump is stopped to prevent contrast from leaking back into the patients circulatory system via the bypass pump and CS blood flow is maintained at its physiological blood flow resulting in the heart being oblivious to the transition by the prefilter blood pump.

Abstract: An improved outdoor aquatic pond having a installation template, a pond liner, a plenum unit chamber, a pump, a canister filter, and at least one artificial rock for connection with the rim of said pond. This invention provides for increased ease of installation as well as increased ease of maintenance.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for removing an oil contaminant from the surface of an aqueous solution, comprising manually controlling a surface skimmer from a remote location to remove a layer or a batch of an oil contaminant from an oil-aqueous solution mixture by the skimmer, where the aqueous solution is contaminated by the oil as a result of an industrial process. The present invention also provides a system for carrying out the method, which comprises a surface skimmer, a collection means which is preferably a separator, a conduit connecting the skimmer to the collection means in an airtight fashion, and means for creating negative pressure in the skimmer, where the skimmer is capable of manual control from a remote location.

Abstract: A filter housing for a portable spa utilizes a coaxial channel structure at the flow output of the filter housing to separate the water flow from the filter housing. In one embodiment, the water from the filter housing, exiting at the bottom of the housing, is piped by way of a high pressure pump, to the jets in the spa. The water from the filter housing taken at about halfway between the top and bottom of the filter housing is piped, by way of a circulation pump to a heater and a water purifier system back into the spa, preferably to a return aperture in the footwell of the spa. In another embodiment water exiting the filter housing is split into separate flow paths at the bottom of the filter housing, to the jets in the spa and into the circulation loop back into the spa.

Abstract: Mineral contaminants are removed from water in a system in which water is sprayed into an air head at the top of a tank through a diffuser and withdrawn through a pick-up tube. A solenoid valve operates to allows air from a compressor to flow into the top of the tank through a shuttle valve which is opened by the air pressure. Simultaneously a drain valve connected to the shuttle valve opens a drain, venting water and air from the tank. The shuttle valve, closed by the solenoid valve, closes the air supply line and connecting the shuttle valve to atmosphere, and pressure within the aeration tank can close the shuttle valve, which causes closing of the drain valve. The part of the valve which opens the drain is made responsive to excess pressure within the air tank to open the drain and so acts as a pressure relief valve.

Abstract: An artificial pond having a motor pump unit with a brushless permanent magnet synchronous alternating current motor that is wound for operation on an alternating current voltage not greater than fifteen volts, and a step down transformer that converts 120 volts AC to an AC voltage not greater than 15 volts.

Abstract: A decorative pond which includes a pond area, a water feature for discharging water into the pond and a skimmer construction for receiving pond water, separating debris from the pond water and recirculating filtered water to the water feature. The skimmer construction includes: a housing which defines a fixed pond-water receiving aperture, an internal assembly positioned adjacent the fixed aperture defines a movable pond water receiving aperture that is selectively positionable relative to the fixed aperture. The combination of the fixed and movable apertures define an inlet opening to the skimmer for receipt of pond water in said housing. A debris collection member is positioned rearwardly of the inlet opening to receive incoming pond water from the inlet opening so as to collect debris. A controllably positionable discharge assembly is provided in association with the skimmer construction so as to permit control of water levels in the skimmer.

Abstract: In a filtration device (1) comprising a pressure-resistant housing (2) with a liquid inlet opening (3) and an outlet opening (4) for filtered matter, into which a collecting channel (12) terminates, at least one filter element (8–11) designed as flat membrane is connected to the collecting channel (12) in a pressure-tight manner. This device provides a high liquid throughput at the same time having a compact construction.

Abstract: An automated matrix removal module is configurable to automatically withdraw a portion of sample containing an interferent. The module is further configurable to mix the portion of sample with a precipitating reagent selected to react with the interferent to form a precipitant and then filter mixture of sample and precipitant reagent through a filter. Finally, the module is further configurable to flush the precipitant from the filter.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for extending the life of fountain solutions used in commercial printing presses comprises withdrawing fountain solution from the dampener recirculation system of a printing press and directing the withdrawn fountain solution through a sediment prefilter, a separation filter, and a post treatment filter. The sediment prefilter preferably comprises a melt blown polypropylene filter; the separation filter preferably comprises a diatomaceous earth filter; and the post treatment filter preferably comprises a zeolite filter.

Abstract: An improved spa vacuum for removing debris from the bottom of a spa or hot tub includes a removable lower assembly which includes a filter assembly. The filter assembly includes a filter housing having three stacked filter elements. The spa vacuum also has a removable nozzle having rounded side edges. A compression fitting connects a telescoping pole to an upper chamber cap of a debris chamber. The telescoping pole may be removed from the debris chamber if damaged or for purposes of packaging and shipping.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for extending the life of fountain solutions used in commercial printing presses comprises withdrawing fountain solution from the dampener recirculation system of a printing press and directing the withdrawn fountain solution through a sediment prefilter, a separation filter, and a post treatment filter. The sediment prefilter preferably comprises a melt blown polypropylene filter; the separation filter preferably comprises a diatomaceous earth filter; and the post treatment filter preferably comprises a zeolite filter.

Abstract: A device for cleaning a fluid comprises at least one set of a first membrane cloth and a second membrane cloth, each being permeable to water over substantially their entire length. The membrane cloths are held taut, substantially parallel to one another in a frame delimiting between them a movement path for fluid. The cloths are displaceable with respect to one another between a first position, in which the mutually facing surfaces substantially touch one another, and a second position, in which the cloths lie at a distance from one another and the width of the movement path for the fluid is greater than in the first position. At least one of the cloths, on the side which faces towards the adjacent cloth is provided with grooves or webs for the purpose of forming channels between the cloths in the longitudinal direction of the cloths, in the first position.

Abstract: A multifunctional apparatus for use in agricultural applications includes a stationary section including a primary chassis having a plurality of leg members attached thereto. The stationary section further includes a reservoir connected to the chassis and supported above a ground surface and a power-operable air compressor secured to the reservoir. The apparatus further includes a movable section including a secondary chassis and a cage attached thereto. The secondary chassis includes a hinge and a bracket secured thereto. The cage includes a lid member removably attachable thereto and an access door pivotally connected thereto. The apparatus further includes a power mechanism for rotating the movable section and a mechanism for mixing the products disposed within the movable section. The mixing and power mechanisms are independently rotatable during operating conditions.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for recirculating machine tool coolant in which coolant and entrained debris flowing in a shallow stream trough are raised to a higher level by rotation of a bladed wheel in a housing arranged to receive the liquid flow stream. Coolant and debris is then directed down at a magnetized body in a plunging discharge to bring ferrous debris into contact with an upwardly facing surface of the magnetized body. The coolant and nonferrous remaining entrained debris is collected in a tank and pumped back to the filter apparatus by a chopper pump which has a hardened impeller having cutting edges cutting up the remaining debris as it is pumped by the impeller.

Abstract: A device for preparing dialysate for a dialysis machine is provided with a cartridge (9) containing salts (S), a first line (6) for supplying purified water to the cartridge (9) to form a saturated solution in the said cartridge (9), a second lin (7) for supplying the said saturated solution from the cartridge (9) to the first line (6) and for mixing the saturated solution with the purified water and forming the dialysate, and a discharge line (18) for discharging the said saturated solution from the second line (7) and from the said cartridge (9) at the end of the dialysis treatment.

Abstract: In a blood dialysis system including a source of substitution fluid (10) and a blood dialysis machine, a hemodiafiltration system having a first dialyzer (1) including a first blood compartment (4) having a first blood inlet which receives blood to be cleaned and a first blood outlet which discharges partially diafiltered blood and a first dialysate compartment (5) having a first dialysate inlet and a first dialysate outlet, means (8) for mixing the partially diafiltered blood with substitution fluid from the source to obtain a blood/substitution fluid mixture, and a second hemofilter (2) including a second blood compartment (11) having a second blood inlet which receives the blood/substitution fluid mixture and a second blood outlet which discharges filtered blood and a second permeate compartment (12) having a second permeate outlet.

Abstract: For use in a pool or spa, the combination comprising, filter structure in the path of pool or spa water flow, substance in direct contact with a surface or surfaces of said filter structure, to contact said flow, said substance characterized as being one of the following: i) bacteria inhibiting ii) an algaecide iii) an algaestat iv) a sanitizer v) a bacteriostat

Abstract: A filter assembly for ultra-filtration of fluids such as waste water comprises a porous tube which is incrementally advanced into the fluid so as to expose a fresh portion periodically and maintain a flow rate over a period of time.

Abstract: A conduit has a first end and interior and exterior surfaces extending downstream from the first end. A strainer has a first end and a second end. An upstream portion of the strainer is positioned engaging a projection on the interior surface of the conduit to resist downstream shifting of the strainer. A strainer body extends at least partially downstream of the upstream portion. The apparatus may be used as a strainer/coupler and may be used to filter water in a chiller apparatus.

Abstract: An apparatus is described for withdrawing filtered permeate from a substrate contained in a reservoir at ambient pressure. The apparatus includes a plurality of membrane assemblies. Each assembly has a plurality of hollow fiber filtering membranes, immersed in the reservoir, at least one permeating header with the membranes sealingly secured therein, and a permeate collector to collect the permeate sealingly connected to the at least one permeating header and in fluid communication with lumens of the membranes. The membranes of each assembly extend generally vertically upwards from a first header during permeation. One or more sources of suction are provided in fluid communication with the lumens of the membranes of each assembly through the permeate collectors and apply sufficient suction to withdraw permeate from the lumens of the membranes. An aeration system for discharging bubbles assists in keeping the membranes clean.

Abstract: A pump inlet screen for a submersible pump adapted to be inserted into a well bore. The screen includes an inner support sleeve having openings therethrough and an outer mesh screen member that overlies the out surface of the inner support sleeve. A polymer coated reinforcing ring is secured to one end of the screen and includes spaced, radially-extending threaded openings for receiving set screws to permit securement of the inlet screen to the outer surface of a cylindrical housing. The opposite end of the inlet screen from the reinforcing ring includes a sealing ring having an inwardly-extending, sloping lip seal to engage the outer surface of a cylindrical housing.

Abstract: This invention provides a continuous blood filtration apparatus capable of filtering a plurality of blood samples continuous by using blood filter units to prepare plasma or serum samples in a short period, which comprises, a conveyor conveying a plurality of blood reservoirs each of which contains a blood sample and in which a suction nozzle of a blood filter unit has been put, a manifold connected to a suction line, couples of a valve and a connector for connecting the manifold to the blood filter unit provided on the end of each branch of the manifold, and a mechanism of moving the blood reservoirs in vertical direction.

Abstract: A device for cleaning liquids, in particular edible oils, by means of a filter in a filter housing, the filter being connected downstream of a pump, and a motor for driving the pump, which has a rotor having a rotor disc with vanes in an immersion housing being provided in a housing, the housing, immersion housing and filter housing together forming a unit which can be at least partially introduced into the liquid which is to be cleaned and removed therefrom.

Abstract: Presteralized manifolds are provided which are designed for sterile packaging and single-use approaches. Disposable tubing and flexible-wall containers are assembled via aseptic connectors. These manifolds interact with at least one remotely controlled pinch valve which engages only the outside surface of the manifold tubing. Such manifold and pinch valve systems can be used in conjunction with a peristaltic type of pump, which, together with the remotely operated pinch valve, can be operated by a controller which provides automated and accurate delivery of biotechnology fluid in an aseptic environment while avoiding or reducing cleaning and quality assurance procedures.

Abstract: A dialysis device 1 includes a water supply passage 15 for supplying clean water to solution supply chambers 35a and 35b, and a waste solution passage for discharging a used dialysis solution from solution collection chambers 34a and 34b, and the water supply passage includes a concentrate solution pump 21 that supplies a dialysis concentrate solution from concentrate solution supply source 19. The concentrate solution pump is a piston pump 40 that moves a piston 42 up and down in a cylinder 41 to feed a solution, the piston pump is provided in the way of washing passage 26 provided between the water supply passage and the waste solution passage, and an open/close valve 27 that intermittently opens and closes is provided in the washing passage to flow the clean water in the water supply passage through a gap between the cylinder and the piston.

Abstract: A filter device for the clarification of contaminated liquids includes a plurality of disk-shaped filter elements spaced apart from one another and combined into circular or polygonal filter modules. The filter elements are arranged rotatably about a horizontal axis in a vessel containing the unclarified liquid. The filtrate is capable of being discharged via the individual filter modules. The filter modules form centrally a cavity. The cavity on one side is closed by a carrying disk and on the other side is connected to the vessel via a suction-intake orifice. The cavity is connected operatively to a flow member in such a way that, via the suction-intake orifice, a flow can be generated in the unclarified liquid between the spaced-apart filter elements and avoids an adhesion of solids to the filter elements.

Abstract: A system for automatically processing blood components is described. The system includes a console, which contains all motors, pumps, sensors, valves and control circuitry, and a unique disposable set that includes a cassette supporting a centrifuge with an improved design, pump interfaces with an improved design, component and solution bags, and tubing. Various processes are implemented using a specific disposable set for each process which allows automatic identification of the process to be performed the console.

Abstract: A disposable flexible vessel contains a septum, dividing a first chamber from a second chamber. By flowing a fluid through the septum, the fluid is treated as it moves from the first chamber to the second chamber. The particular configuration of the septum allows for treatments such as mixing, reacting, heating, and cooling, as well as filtering of the fluid.

Abstract: A rainwater collection apparatus stores rainwater until required, and includes at least one outlet for exporting rainwater. The outlet or outlets include ball-valve assemblies and levers for opening and closing the outlets, and couplers for attachment to a garden hose, thereby providing optimal control of the export of water. An overflow port or outlet is provided as well. A drainage port at an inferior end is provided to remove sediment. To aid in the usage and distribution of the water, an internal submersible pump may be provided. The output of the pump is connected to a conventional garden hose allowing the rain water from the barrel to be used for washing of motor vehicles, watering of lawns and flowers, rinsing of driveways and the like. The pump is controlled by an ON-OFF switch located on the side of the barrel.

Abstract: This invention refers to a waste disposal plant for wet garbage, especially for refuse from large-scale kitchens. The wet garbage is transported by compressed air or a partial vacuum from decentralized input stations (30) to a central discharge device (12). A sieve-like collecting funnel (14) is provided there, from which liquid exits to an external collection area (19) and is drained off at intervals. The remaining wet garbage has thus already been largely drained when is passed on for further processing, for instance to a grinder (80) and a water extraction press (90), before being fed for instance to a food refuse silo (94).

Abstract: Apparatus for processing blood in an extracorporeal circuit with automatic flow control is provided in which error conditions are sensed and system operation is modulated responsive to the error conditions. The apparatus includes an extracorporeal blood processing system, at least one sensor that senses the presence or absence of gas or monitors venous pressure, and a controller operably coupled to the blood processing system to selectively reduce pump speed or to reconfigure flow paths within the blood processing system responsive to the sensor output.

Abstract: A filtration funnel with integral prefilter usable for filtering fluids. The integral prefilter is disposed above the final filter which is sealed to the funnel. The prefilter may contain one or more layers of prefilter material, and is sealed to the funnel with one or more seal rings. The funnel may be used with either vacuum or pressure.

Abstract: A method and system for separating human waste solids from liquid for a shipboard toilet system that allows for the separation of solid waste, compaction of the solid waste and storage of solid waste. Wastes are deposited into a shipboard toilet system that uses vacuum toilets to flush waste into a large, inclined solid waste separation tank. A vacuum pump is attached to the separation tank to maintain negative pressure within the tank and system and to move the separated liquid stream. The separation tank has a separating screen disposed across its entire width to retain solid wastes while allowing liquid to flow through. After separation from liquids, solid waste material is compacted and dewatered with a helical screw through an inclined tube, and packaged for later removal as landfill or burned in the ship incinerator.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for collecting and processing whole blood. Whole blood is collected at several remote donor sites and transported to a central blood-processing center, where information regarding demand for blood products is used to direct processing of whole blood into blood products. Whole blood is initially collected in collection bags unattached to satellite bags instead of commonly used multiple bag sets. When the determination is made at the blood processing center as to which blood products are to be made, the appropriate satellite bags and/or other system components are sterile docked to the blood-collection bag and the whole blood is processed. The use of blood-collection bags initially unattached to satellite bags eliminates waste and simplifies the transportation and processing of whole blood. Also disclosed are blood collection systems that remove leukocytes and collect whole blood into blood-collection bags unattached to satellite bags.

Abstract: A water filtration and pumping apparatus typically for use with swimming pools includes a pump casing having mounted therein an electric motor driving an impeller within an impeller housing. The impeller housing has a water inlet. A filter casing mounted directly atop of the pump casing has a water outlet. The filter casing is attached to the pump casing via a number of support legs extending between the two casings. One of the support legs provides a water flow passage between the impeller housing and the filter casing via which water from the water inlet pumped by the impeller passes en route to the filter casing for filtration and dispensation via the water outlet.

Abstract: The present invention provides a liquid filtration device with internal flow paths that facilitate the purging of air bubbles from the device. The device includes internal channels that collect bubbles from fluid entering the filtration device and more efficiently direct fluid to sweep bubbles from the device during operation. The present invention also provides for an automatic means to minimize fluid loss during a vent process.

Abstract: There is provided herein a skimmer apparatus for use in ornamental ponds and the like. According to a preferred embodiment there is provided a skimmer that has a submersible pump directly connected thereto and which is designed to sit within the pond itself, e.g., it might rest on a pond's plant shelf, or might hang by straps or other mechanical means from the pond's edge. Preferably, a submersible pump external to the skimmer body is attached thereto to draw surface water into the skimmer where leaves and other debris will be removed from the water. The submersible pump might either be mounted to a sidewall of the skimmer or mounted to its bottom, the latter being especially appropriate for installation in ponds without plant shelves. The skimmer preferably contains at least a leaf strainer or basket for debris removal.

Abstract: A waste stream separator separates liquid and solid waste from a conveying air stream. The liquid and solid waste are first separated from the air steam by gravity and filtration in a removable primary waste barrel. The air is then drawn through a secondary waste barrel and vacuum chamber with a moisture separator and water-resistant HEPA filter to produce dry, filtered air at the output port of the system. The liquid passing through the filter media in the primary waste barrel and the liquid collecting in the secondary waste barrel can be withdrawn for further treatment. When filled with waste, the primary waste barrel can be readily removed and sealed for disposal. If necessary, polyacrylate can be injected into the primary waste barrel to convert any remaining liquid to a solid gel prior to disposal.

Abstract: A filter system for spas and swimming pools is disclosed having a primary filter containing a porous membrane made of multiple plies. A fluid purifying medium in the form of irregularly shaped copper and zinc alloy particles is captured between the plies and placed in contact with the spa water to kill bacteria and remove heavy metals, precipitates and chlorine as the water cycles through the filter. A micro filter for filtering particles surrounds the primary filter, the micro filter and primary filter are mounted in a chamber in fluid communication with the spa or pool. Another particulate filter is positioned upstream of the micro filter and primary filter. A secondary micro filter and primary filter provide filter capacity augmentation through a parallel flow path during periods of increased demand.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and apparatus for separation of solids from liquids and separation of liquids from liquids (such as oil from water) by dissolved gas floatation. A dissolved gas floatation clarifier is described as is a liquid-gas mixer, a liquid-liquid mixer, and solid-liquid chemical feeders. The methods and apparatus of the present invention are particularly suitable for supplying dissolved air and mixing of chemicals for use in separation of solids in dissolved air floatation clarifiers.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for particulate removal from liquids is disclosed and includes a Coanda tilted wire wedge wire screen in combination with a liquid-flow velocity control orifice mounted within a cylindrical air-tight vessel that can be operated under pressure. The liquid flow velocity control orifice and Coanda tilted wire wedge wire screen in combination with the pressurized system provides for highly efficient and uniform removal of particulate matter that includes a self-cleaning feature.

Abstract: There is disclosed a genetic vaccination device and a process for forming an injection solution therefor, the device comprising a syringe and canula coupled to a membrane adsorber having genetic material adsorbed thereon, and the process comprising eluting the genetic material from the membrane adsorber so as to form an injection solution containing the genetic material.

Abstract: A concentration adjustment unit adjusts a concentration of a fiber solution. An element forming unit includes an element forming tank, which receives the concentration-adjusted fiber solution, and a suction jig, which draws the concentration-adjusted fiber solution and accumulates fibers, which are contained in the drawn fiber solution, on a surface of the suction jig to form a filter element. A recovery unit includes a reservoir tank, which reserves recovered water that is drawn and is recovered through the suction jig. A filtration unit is provided in the recovery unit. The filtration unit includes a filter, which filters the recovered water, and jet nozzles, which remove the fibers, which are accumulated on a surface of the filter upon drawing and filtering the recovered water through the filter.

Abstract: An apparatus, a system and a method for obtaining sieved water, for fighting fires, from a source of water having foreign objects are disclosed. A strainer is connected to a tank via a hose such that water may be pumped from the strainer to the tank. The strainer includes a water inlet having a sieve-like material over it and a water outlet connector where the hose connects. The strainer is submerged in a source of water such as a pond or stream. As water enters the strainer via the water inlet, the sieve-like material prevents foreign objects such as rocks and leaves from entering the strainer. Therefore, the foreign objects never reach the tank. A pan may be connected to the bottom of the strainer to elevate the strainer above the bottom of the source of water. Such elevating helps achieve desired flow rates without stirring or roiling foreign objects such as sand or gravel that may be at the bottom of the source of water.

Abstract: A system dynamically adjusts the delivery rate of a cryopreservation solution to red blood cells to permit freezing. The delivery rate is preferably determined according to an equation that maintains a linear change of red blood cell osmolarity over time so as to prevent osmolarity shock of the red blood cells. In the preferred embodiment, the system includes a controller that is preconfigured to automatically deliver the cryopreservation solution to the red blood cells in accordance with the equation. The system may also support the recovery of thawed red blood cells by diluting the red blood cells and washing them of the cryopreservative. Again, the system preferably adjusts the delivery rate of a dilution solution so as to prevent osmolarity shock of the red blood cells during the recovery phase. The recovered red blood cells may be suspended in a preservation solution to further increase their shelf-life following the recovery phase.