Multi-way Valve Patents (Class 210/424)
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Patent number: 6585888Abstract: An aquarium filter system comprising a pump, a manually positionable valve assembly, and one or a plurality of interchangeable filter cartridges. The filter cartridges are interchangeable and replaceable without the need to suspend water flow. The filter cartridges may be readily repositioned relative to their location from the pump. In method form, a method of changing filter cartridges in an aquarium filter is disclosed. The method comprises supplying a pump and pumping water to provide a continuous flow of water from the aquarium to one or a plurality of removable filter cartridges. This is followed by isolating any one or plurality of the filter cartridges from the flow of water and replacing any one or plurality of filter cartridges with one or a plurality of unused filter cartridges. This is all accomplished under conditions such that the continuous flow of water is uninterrupted.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2001Date of Patent: July 1, 2003Assignee: T.F.H. Publications, Inc.Inventor: Glen Axelrod
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Publication number: 20030102256Abstract: A combination tap with external water purifier capable of preventing unwanted bacteria from breeding by washing a system on purified water side including the interior of the water purifier and pipes across the water purifier when raw water is used and also capable of selecting any delivery mode, comprising a combination stop valve mixing hot water with water and forming a main valve, the water purifier disposed on the outside of the combination tap on the downstream side of the combination stop valve so as to purify raw water and having flow paths for purified water and raw water, and a water quality switching valve disposed on the downstream side of the water purifier and allowing either of the purified water and raw water to flow to the delivery side.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 2, 2003Publication date: June 5, 2003Inventor: Toshio Takagi
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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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Publication number: 20030062300Abstract: The water purifier according to the present invention is provided with a flow meter which measures the integrated flow of purified water through a water purification cartridge, and the flow display of the flow meter has an indicator portion which rotates with an increase of the flow, and a graduated portion which can rotate around the same axis as the indicator portion rotates around. In this water purifier, there is no flow meter which has a complex mechanism built in for measuring the flow, and resetting of the flow display can be performed easily and accurately. Therefore the main body of the water purifier can be made compact, and the amount of material and the number of parts comprising the water purifier and its cost can be reduced, it is possible to carry out a compact product and low cost.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2001Publication date: April 3, 2003Inventors: Masaaki Okano, Atsushi Hatakeyama, Kunio Kido, Yoshiyuki Matsuoka
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Publication number: 20020189988Abstract: A water pump normally used in a water filtering system for a circulating water of a swimming pool water through a water filter cartridge is used to clean the filter by coupling a 3-way valve or an in line valve and a tee in the piping between the pump and the water filter. In the a first position of the valve, the filter housing receives the entire water output from the pump and a second position the entire water output of the pump is diverted to a flexible hose secured to first water discharge wand. A circular ring-shaped manifold with an array of water discharged apertures direct streams of water radially outward into the filter cartridge in a direction opposite to the flow of water through the filter cartridge when located in a filter housing for hydraulically flush debris from a filter cartridge. A second wand with a C-shaped manifold is then connected to the hose and used direct water streams onto the outer periphery of the filter.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2001Publication date: December 19, 2002Inventors: Kenneth R. Alexander, Robert W. Henderson
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Antibacterial member, method of preparing the same, antibacterial filter and antibacterial container
Publication number: 20020139732Abstract: An antibacterial member is constituted such that a propolis component is contained in, or adhered to, a water-insoluble base member. This antibacterial member is mixed into a filter member to be disposed in a flow passage in an antibacterial filter. Water in the antibacterial filter receives the antibacterial action from the propolis component when coming in contact with the antibacterial member. Thus, microorganisms in water is extinguished, and generation and propagation of germs, bacteria, algae and the like are suppressed.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2001Publication date: October 3, 2002Inventor: Kazunori Shimada -
Patent number: 6457322Abstract: A filter housing assembly for refrigerators is disclosed. The assembly comprises an upper filter housing, a lower filter housing, a valve, and a passage control lever. The upper filter housing has an inlet, an outlet, an inflow passage and an outflow passage. The lower filter passage is detachably combined with the upper filter housing and holds a filter element for purifying water supplied through the inflow passage of the upper filter housing. The valve has a first passage hole, a second passage hole and a third passage hole so as to selectively connect the inlet to the outlet, and the inlet and the outlet respectively to the first inflow passage and the first outflow passage. The passage control lever is fixedly connected at its one end to the valve so as to rotate the valve for the selective connection of the valve.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2000Date of Patent: October 1, 2002Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Ill-Shin Kim, Yong-Chol Kwon, Si-Jae Kim
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Patent number: 6457589Abstract: The present invention provides a fluid dispenser. The flow of either filter or unfiltered fluid may be selected by positioning an actuator that also contains the filter. Selection is accomplished by positioning the actuator within two planes that are not coincident, or by positioning the actuator along a single axis.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2000Date of Patent: October 1, 2002Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Malcolm D. Poirier, Jeffrey E. Fish, Kevin P. McGrath, Bruce S. Williamson
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Patent number: 6444127Abstract: A highly versatile drive arrangement that drives a linearly reciprocating piston of a water conditioning unit control valve without imparting any significant side loads on the support structure for the piston's drive rod or the associated seals. The drive arrangement includes a reversible electric motor and a motion converter, such as a lead screw arrangement, that converts the rotary motion of the electric motor's pinion or other output element to reciprocating linear motion of the piston. The reversible motor can be controlled, based on signals from a motion monitor such as an encoder, to drive the piston to any desired position within the piston upon command. This, in turn, permits the operation of the water conditioning unit to be optimized for prevailing conditions and permits the control valve's operation to be altered if, e.g., the piston becomes stuck or encounters an obstruction.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2000Date of Patent: September 3, 2002Assignee: Clack CorportionInventors: Don Vaughan, Richard W. Wilder, Robert A. Clack
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Patent number: 6394127Abstract: A water faucet assembly comprises a spout, a water supply port, a filter, and a valve. Fluid flow is stopped, between the water supply port and the filter inlet, before fluid communication is closed, between the filter outlet and the spout, as the valve is moved from on to off position when the water supply port is connected to a water source.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2001Date of Patent: May 28, 2002Assignee: Amerikam, Inc.Inventors: Robert S. Creswell, Jimmie D. Chrysler
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Patent number: 6372132Abstract: A purifier for filtering and purifying a fluid, such as water, comprises a pressure vessel for holding a purifying element for filtering and purifying the fluid, the pressure vessel having inlet and outlet members for introducing the fluid into the pressure vessel and for removing the fluid from the pressure vessel. A first end cap closes a first opening in the housing of the pressure vessel, and a sealing member located between the first end cap and the housing of the pressure vessel seals between the first end cap and the housing. A first removable retaining yoke extends between the housing and the first end cap for securing the first end cap to the housing. Level compensating support members are provided for supporting the pressure vessel above a surface on which the purifier rests in a secure, non-wobbling manner. Optionally, a by-pass channel and a by-pass valve are provided to cause the fluid to by-pass the purifying element, when filtered/purified fluid is not desired.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 1998Date of Patent: April 16, 2002Inventor: Richard T. Williams
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Patent number: 6368513Abstract: An assembly for automatically and continuously purifying a polluted fluid P includes a main separator 1, a secondary separator 2 having a centrifuge 21 and filter 22 therein, and a backwashing device 11. In operation, the backwashing device returns a fraction of purified fluid E1 to backwash the main separator. The resulting backwashing fluid F is then delivered to the secondary separator via a multi-port valve V where the backwashing fluid is centrifuged and/or filtered to remove impurities therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2000Date of Patent: April 9, 2002Assignee: Alfa Laval Moatti SNCInventors: Théophile Christophe, Jean-Claude Moatti
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Patent number: 6349835Abstract: The invention concerns a water treatment method and installation, which consist in subjecting the water to be treated to membrane filtration (1) to satisfy the requirement for a relatively high flowrate of water for ordinary use (UF), subjecting the water that has been subjected to membrane filtering to reverse osmosis filtering (2) to satisfy the requirement for a smaller flowrate of water of improved quality (OS) and, outside periods of production of water filtered by reverse osmosis, sweeping the upstream face of the osmosis membrane (9) with the flow of membrane-filtered water drawn off to be consumed.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2001Date of Patent: February 26, 2002Assignee: PolymemInventors: Franc Saux, Jean-Michel Espenan, Jean-Claude Bontemps
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Patent number: 6334950Abstract: An automatic oil filter replacement assembly for a locomotive including a plurality of oil filters mounted within a cartridge. The filters are mounted within the chamber. An indexing plate, mounted to the cartridge, has a single portal for alignment within a selected chamber and filter. The operating system of the locomotive is adapted so an operator may remotely rotate the indexing plate a given distance after certain set parameters have been reached, so a clean filter, or filters, replace exhausted filters.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 1999Date of Patent: January 1, 2002Inventors: Frank J. Bogacki, Andrew Raymond Spriegel
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Patent number: 6267875Abstract: The invention is a spin-on type filter with a reclaimed permanent filter casing and permanent filtering media that are washable and reusable. There are three distinct progressive filtering systems that function simultaneously,but separately within one filter housing, one is the full flow filtering at 10 micron capability while the other is in its bypass fine filtering mode at 1 to 3 micron filtering capability. In addition, a safety full flow filter can be activated to filter the return oil while the main full flow medium is fouled. Each system can be implemented with multiple media. The main body of the filter, which comprises the filter head and the media, can be separated easily for servicing from its casing which is designed to attach to the engine. Fine stainless steel cloths are utilized as filtering media which can last the life of an engine Furthermore, magnets arc utilized to trap suspending metal filings in oil flow.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 1998Date of Patent: July 31, 2001Inventor: Ano Leo
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Patent number: 6261448Abstract: Described is an oil filtration apparatus that includes external vanes 120 and associated outer flow passages 140 for allowing a heat exchange to occur between oil passing therein and cool air that passes by the vanes. A manually rotatable valve 154 is provided at one end of the filtration apparatus for controlling the flow of oil through the manifold. In a first position, the valve allows oil to flow through the outer flow passages through the end cap 152 and into an inner flow passage 142 where it is filtered before flowing through a central passage 134 and out the flow manifold. In a second position, the outer flow passages are blocked so that oil flows directly into the inner flow passage. A pressure sensitive valve 164 is provided in the end cap so that when the filter becomes clogged, oil is diverted directly to the central flow passage bypassing the filter.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 1999Date of Patent: July 17, 2001Assignee: Merch Performance Inc.Inventors: Gerald Merchant, Norton Loblick, Jens Kluge
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Patent number: 6258266Abstract: A water filter device mountable on a faucet facilitates water flow in substantially one linear direction through a filtering cartridge which comprises activated carbon or charcoal material. The water filtration device includes a valve assembly for selectively operating the filtering device for generating filtered or unfiltered water. The filtering device preferably includes a disc shaped filtering housing having a disc shaped filtering block of activated carbon material therein for filtering water. The present invention simplifies the flow path of water from the inlet through the filtering cartridge and provides for a more compact and lower profile filtering device which saves space in the sink associated with the water filtration device. It also provides for little or no pressure differential for flow through the filter.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 1999Date of Patent: July 10, 2001Assignee: Sta-Rite Industries, Inc.Inventors: Richard Riback, Mark Kurth, William Cowles
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Patent number: 6235210Abstract: The present invention provides a combination continuous and batch filtration system for a recirculating fryer where the continuous filter and batch filter assemblies are integrated into a single unit, utilizing a common pump. This unit is substantially compact and is therefore able to fit within the frame of most recirculating fryers. The outlets of the continuous filter and the batch filter are connected to a two-way valve, which is, in turn, connected to the inlet of the common pump. The valve allows an operator to selectively pump cooking fluid from either the continuous filter or the batch filter back into the fryer vat.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2000Date of Patent: May 22, 2001Assignee: Hobart CorporationInventor: Atul Saksena
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Publication number: 20010000895Abstract: A filtration system for a cross-flow membrane filter which reduces the deleterious effects of concentration polarization and membrane fouling, thereby increasing the average transmembrane flux. The filtration system includes a feed supply for providing a feed solution; a feed pump connected to the feed supply; a cross-flow membrane filter connected downstream of the feed pump for separating the feed into a permeate and a retentate, the cross-flow membrane filter including at least two membrane ports and at least two permeate outlets; a valve manifold assembly located between the feed pump and the cross-flow membrane filter; and a control system for controlling the valve manifold to selectively reverse the flow of the feed through the cross-flow membrane filter.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2000Publication date: May 10, 2001Inventors: Shamsuddin Ilias, Sirena C. Hargrove, Miles E. Talbert
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Patent number: 6220298Abstract: A faucet includes a tubular body having an open end with a filter member received in the tubular body and the filter member has an outlet defined through one of two ends thereof. The tubular body has a head member connected to the open end thereof and the tubular body has an engaging tube which is connected to the outlet of the filter member. The head has a separating plate through which two apertures are defined and the engaging tube communicates one of the apertures. A valve device is pivotably received in the head member and has a first hole and a second hole defined through therein which alternately communicate with the two holes of the head member by operating the valve device so that the water filtered by the filter member flows from the first hole and the water not filtered flows from the second hole.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 1999Date of Patent: April 24, 2001Inventor: Mu Lin Wu
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Patent number: 6179130Abstract: A faucet 40 includes a faucet spout assembly 46 which includes a spout shell 56 for supporting a cartridge 126 containing a filter media therein defining a flow path for water being filtered. The shell 56 and the cartridge 126 define a flow space 138 between the shell and the cartridge for unfiltered water. Water which flows through the flow path of the filter cartridge 126, and unfiltered water which flows through the flow space 138, is directed to a chamber 158 of a valve head 60. A spool valve 210 is located within the chamber 158 and is positionable selectively by manipulation of a knob 62 to allow the filtered water or the unfiltered water to enter the chamber, and to allow the filtered water to be dispensed from the spout assembly 46 through a nozzle 66 or, alternatively, the unfiltered water to be dispensed from an aerator 64.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 1997Date of Patent: January 30, 2001Assignee: Emhart Inc.Inventors: Jack T. Nguyen, Donald J. Segien
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Patent number: 6171495Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus incorporating an automatic, three-way valve having inlet, outlet and drain passages and a close-open timing mechanism. The timing mechanism is adjusted to a predetermined period of time in order to close the drain passage and then open the outlet passage or vice-versa automatically after a predetermined period of time in response to the starting or stopping of an external source of pressurized fluid being directed to the three-way valve.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 1999Date of Patent: January 9, 2001Inventor: Mordeki Drori
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Patent number: 6168714Abstract: A filtration system for a cross-flow membrane filter which reduces the deleterious effects of concentration polarization and membrane fouling, thereby increasing the average transmembrane flux. The filtration system includes a feed supply for providing a feed solution; a feed pump connected to the feed supply; a cross-flow membrane filter connected downstream of the feed pump for separating the feed into a permeate and a retentate, the cross-flow membrane filter including at least two membrane ports and at least two permeate outlets; a valve manifold assembly located between the feed pump and the cross-flow membrane filter; and a control system for controlling the valve manifold to selectively reverse the flow of the feed through the cross-flow membrane filter.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 1999Date of Patent: January 2, 2001Assignee: North Carolina A&T UniversityInventors: Shamsuddin Ilias, Sirena C. Hargrove, Miles E. Talbert
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Patent number: 6135154Abstract: A faucet comprises a main body, a control valve column, and a filter mounted on the main body. The main body is provided with an axial hole in which the control valve column is movably received. The control valve column is provided at one end thereof with a handle fastened therewith such that the control valve column can be caused by the handle to displace in the axial hole so as to let the liquid out directly from an outlet of the main body or to let the liquid out of the outlet of the main body via the filter.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1996Date of Patent: October 24, 2000Inventors: Wei Fu Chen, Huei Yuh Liou
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Patent number: 6117338Abstract: Apparatus for continuously filtering molten polymer comprising: an arbor seated in a fixed support, the arbor having inlet and outlet ports for respectively receiving contaminated and discharging filtered melt, the ports communicating with openings in a pair of housings rotatably mounted on the arbor; a plurality of filter pod assemblies outwardly of and mounted on the rotatable housings, each assembly having a filter for contaminated melt and intake and discharge openings intermittently alignable with the ports on rotation of the housings to position a clean filter in the path of the contaminated melt and to remove the filter from the path when blocked with contaminants; passages associated with the inlet and outlet ports of the arbor and the housings for gradually establishing a flow of melt into a clean filter as it is rotated into filtering position; and thermally dilatable seal between the rotatable housings and the arbor to seal the housings and the arbor during the filtering of contaminated melt by a fType: GrantFiled: March 25, 1999Date of Patent: September 12, 2000Assignee: Solutia, Inc.Inventors: John C. Hoagland, David P. Bourcier
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Patent number: 6106705Abstract: A totalization meter system for a water treatment device, the device having an inlet aperture and an outlet aperture, and a channel for channeling water between the inlet and outlet apertures. A flow reactive device is positioned in the channel and is exposed to the flowing water, and a signal generating member is positioned on the flow reactive device. A switch is positioned proximately to the flow reactive device, and is sensitive to the proximity of the signal generating member. The switch is able to communicate electric signals indicative of the motion of the signal generating member. A resettable processor having a performance threshold programmed therein and an output device is included. The microcontroller is in electrical communication with the switch for receiving electrical signals from the switch. The switch is capable of sensing the characteristics of the flow reactive device and communicates electrical signals representative of the characteristics to the microcontroller.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 1999Date of Patent: August 22, 2000Assignee: Teledyne Industries, Inc.Inventors: Edward C. Giordano, Thomas W. Graves, James M. Jennings, Mark Vander Berg, William James A. Storer, Douglas R. Gibbs, Douglas A. Lonsinger
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Patent number: 6093313Abstract: A faucet with multiple water discharges includes a housing, an input water connection for said housing, an unfiltered water discharge and a filtered water discharge. There is a water filter within the housing and a valve within the housing which is connected to each water discharge. There is an unfiltered water flow path from the input water connection to the valve and a filtered water flow path from the input water connection, through the filter, to the valve. A manual control element, accessible from the exterior of the housing, operates the valve to direct filtered water to the filtered water discharge and unfiltered water to the unfiltered water discharge. There is an electrical circuit positioned within the housing. The circuit includes a display and the circuit is responsive to operation of the manual control to cause the circuit to operate the display only during the discharge of filtered water.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 1998Date of Patent: July 25, 2000Assignee: Moen IncorporatedInventors: Raymond Bovaird, James J. Sposit, W. Randall Tucker
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Patent number: 6056873Abstract: The installation disclosed comprises a body of water, a pump, a filter and pipes connecting the body of water, pump and filter. Additional pipes lead from the pipe to the return pipe and to waste. Solenoid operated valves are provided in the pipes so that flow through these pipes can be permitted or prevented depending on whether the valves are open or closed. A pressure sensor detects pressure at the inlet of the filter. A programmable controller controls operation of the valves all of which can be operated independently of the others. The body of water will normally be a swimming pool but could be a tank in which aquatic creatures are grown.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 1998Date of Patent: May 2, 2000Inventors: Quentin John Seaton Hartley, Nicholas Johannes Grobler Smit
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Patent number: 6042721Abstract: An effluent treatment apparatus, and associated methods of use, are provided for treating in a closed-loop configuration a volume of effluent contained in a holding vessel. The apparatus includes one or more treatment tank units arranged to hold a volume of molecular filtering material capable of removing one or more toxic contaminants from the effluent, al least in part, as the effluent contacts the surface areas of the molecular filtering material within each tank unit. A pump unit is provided to draw effluent from the holding vessel and deliver the effluent to selected tank units to effect treatment. The apparatus further includes fluidic conduit structures to fluidically couple the holding vessel, a pre-filter, the pump, and each selected tank unit.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 1997Date of Patent: March 28, 2000Assignee: Fabco Industries, Inc.Inventors: John Peters, Jr., James Lee McManus
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Patent number: 6024869Abstract: A filter head for use in cooperative engagement with an associated liquid filter comprises a block member having a bypass valve assembly, and a back pressure flow valve assembly. The block member defines an inlet port; an inlet channel positioned for fluid communication between the inlet port and the associated liquid filter; a first outlet port; a second outlet port; and an outlet channel positioned for fluid communication between the associated liquid filter and the first and second outlet ports. When in an open orientation, the bypass valve provides fluid communication between the inlet channel and the outlet channel. When in a closed orientation, the bypass valve blocks fluid communication between the inlet channel and the outlet channel. The back pressure flow valve assembly, when in an open orientation, provides fluid communication between the outlet channel and the second outlet port.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 1998Date of Patent: February 15, 2000Assignee: Donaldson Company, Inc.Inventor: Jack Stifelman
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Patent number: 5989425Abstract: Disclosed is a multi-way valve comprising a valve casing having a fluid inlet and a plurality of fluid outlets, first and second chambers defined in the valve casing, a partition disposed between the first and second chambers and having a plurality of fluid paths, a plurality of valve elements each engaging a corresponding fluid path from the first chamber side for opening and closing the fluid path and a driving device having cams which selectively drive the valve elements from the second chamber side. The multi-way valve can be manufactured as a small-sized one, and therefore, a water purifier using the valve also can be assembled as a small-sized one as a whole. The amount of resident fluid in the valve can be decreased, thereby improving the hygienic property of the water purifier. The operation for taking off or exchanging valve elements can be simplified.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1996Date of Patent: November 23, 1999Assignee: Toray Industries, Inc.Inventors: Yasuo Yonezawa, Jyunji Itakura, Takashi Isobe, Sho Tamatsu
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Patent number: 5961842Abstract: Blood separation systems and methods employ a rotating chamber. The chamber includes an inlet region where whole blood enters for centrifugal separation into packed red blood cells, a plasma constituent, and an interface carrying mononuclear cells between the packed red blood cells and the plasma constituent. The packed red blood cells in the chamber have a hematocrit value H.sub.PRBC. A controller operates in a first mode to convey whole blood into the inlet region while removing packed red blood cells and the plasma constituent from the chamber and while maintaining the interface within the chamber. The controller also operates in the first mode to maintain a set H.sub.PRBC by conveying packed red blood cells into the inlet region.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 1997Date of Patent: October 5, 1999Assignee: Baxter International Inc.Inventors: Kyungyoon Min, Richard I Brown, Robert J Cantu, Daniel F Bischof, William H Cork
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Patent number: 5928504Abstract: A faucet-mounted water treatment device including a flow totalizer and an end-of-life indicator cooperating with the totalizer to tell the user when it is necessary to replace the filter cartridge. End-of-life indication is provided by a valve which stops flow after a predetermined volume has been filtered and by a rotating screen which shows the amount of useful life remaining in the filter cartridge.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 1996Date of Patent: July 27, 1999Assignee: Recovery Engineering, Inc.Inventors: Richard D. Hembre, Brian F. Sullivan
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Patent number: 5928523Abstract: A filtering method and apparatus for continuously filtering a polymeric melt, which includes a plurality of filter chambers which are arranged in a melt flow path parallel to one another. Also, an intermediate filter is arranged parallel to the filter chambers. When one of the filter chambers is disconnected for the purpose of cleaning or replacing the filter element therein, the intermediate filter is connected synchronously in the melt flow path and, after the filter chamber is cleaned, or the filter element is exchanged, the flow is switched back through the filter chamber, and the intermediate filter is again disconnected.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 1996Date of Patent: July 27, 1999Assignee: Barmag AGInventors: Knut Hobrecht, Friedhelm Itter
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Patent number: 5832741Abstract: A bi-directional filter/drier having a flat header welded to a casing with a desiccant canister disposed in the casing. The header has a dedicated low side pressure inlet port formed in the flat which communicates through a pair of oppositely disposed check valves in a cross passage with two separate bi-directional inlet/outlet ports into which low side pressure flow is permitted to by-pass the desiccant to the bi-directional ports. Individual passages, each with a stiffer check valve are provided between the bi-directional ports for permitting high side pressure to flow in either port into the desiccant. A stand pip through the desiccant is connected to an interior port in the header and communicates with a dedicated outlet port in header exterior.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 1996Date of Patent: November 10, 1998Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventors: Wayne K. Hutchison, William N. Eybergen
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Patent number: 5823229Abstract: A faucet having multiple water discharges includes a housing, an input water connection for the housing, a stream discharge on the housing, a spray discharge on the housing, a filtered water discharge on the housing, a water filter within the housing, and a control valve in the housing connected to each of the water discharges. There is an unfiltered water flow path from the input water connection to the control valve. A manual actuator accessible from the exterior of the housing operates the control valve to direct water from the unfiltered water flow path to either the stream discharge or the spray discharge. There is a filtered water flow path from the input water connection, through the filter, to the control valve. A filtered water manual actuator accessible from the exterior of the housing operates the control valve to direct filtered water to the filtered water discharge.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 1996Date of Patent: October 20, 1998Assignee: Moen IncorporatedInventors: John E. Bertrand, Lee A. Mercer, Thomas H. Burchard, Gregory Hunter, John Lofgren, Henry N. Wagner, Kevin M. Johnson, Jeffery Karg
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Patent number: 5814211Abstract: The invention is a spin-on type filter with a reclaimed permanent filter casing and permanent filtering mediums that are washable and reusable. There are three distinct progressive filtering systems that function simultaneously, but separately within one filter housing; one is the full flow filtering at 10 micron capability while the other is in its by-pass fine filtering mode at 1 to 3 micron filtering capability. In addition, a safety full flow filter can be activated to filter the return oil while the main fill flow medium is fouled. Each system can be implemented with multi mediums. The main body of the filter, which comprises the filter head and the mediums, can be separated easily for servicing from its casing which is designed to attach to the engine. Fine stainless steel cloths are being utilized as filtering mediums which can last the life of an engine. Further more, magnetic pieces are utilized to trap suspending metal filings in oil flow.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 1996Date of Patent: September 29, 1998Inventor: Ano Leo
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Patent number: 5762795Abstract: An improved dual-stage pump system is provided for the accurate pumping and filtering of viscous fluids. Two hydraulically activated pumps are provided in series with a filter and reservoir disposed in-line between the two pumps. The reservoir acts as a source bottle for the second pump and allows the first pump to pump the viscous fluid through the filter at a rate independent of the dispensing rate of the second pump. By operating the first pump at a rate independent of the second pump, back pressure at the filter is avoided. Each hydraulically activated diaphragm pump is equipped with an improved diaphragm that is pre-formed to the geometries of the process fluid cavity thereby eliminating any inaccuracies in the operation of the pumps due to expansion of retraction of the diaphragm during pump operation.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 1996Date of Patent: June 9, 1998Assignee: Cybor CorporationInventors: David C. Bailey, Carl A. Martin
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Patent number: 5753118Abstract: A faucet and filter assembly includes a faucet secured to one end of a base which has two partitions for separating the interior of the base into three spaces. A valve is threadedly engaged in the base for engaging with one of the partition and for controlling the water from one space to the other. A bolt is secured to a lower side portion of the base for securing an outlet. A filter barrel is secured to the upper side portion of the base and coupled to the outlet for filtering the water and for allowing water to flow out through the outlet.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 1997Date of Patent: May 19, 1998Inventor: Tsai Chen Yang
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Patent number: 5750039Abstract: Systems and methods centrifugally separate mono nuclear cells from whole blood in a separation chamber. The systems and methods control the exit hematocrit value of red blood cells separated in the chamber by recirculating a portion of the red blood cells removed from the chamber for mixing whole blood entering the separation chamber. The systems and methods also control the entry hematocrit value of whole blood entering the separation chamber by recirculating a portion of the plasma constituent removed from the separation chamber for mixing whole blood entering the separation chamber.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 1996Date of Patent: May 12, 1998Assignee: Baxter International Inc.Inventors: Richard I. Brown, Kyungyoon Min
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Patent number: 5685981Abstract: A water treatment or filtration unit is in two parts, a base and a cartridge. The base includes three ports, one of which may be selectively plugged or otherwise disabled. The cartridge contains the water treating material and is screwed into a socket in the base. Openings in the cartridge are then aligned with openings in the base to allow water to pass therethrough. Cartridges may be readily exchanged by simply unscrewing from, and screwing into, the base.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 1996Date of Patent: November 11, 1997Assignee: KX Industries, L.P.Inventor: Evan E. Koslow
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Patent number: 5645378Abstract: A device for collection and containment of spilled or leaked liquid hydrocarbons absorbs pollutants that come in contact. The absorbed material is solidified within the pillow into a rubber-like mass. An impermeable layer of material may be utilized in forming the bottom layer of the outer envelope of the device to retain accumulated hydrocarbons within the pillow while further allowing the contaminants to disperse throughout the device for absorption and solidification. The impermeable layer prevents spilled or leaked hydrocarbons from contaminating the surface below the device. The consolidated mass is easily retrieved and handled for disposal. A variety of options may be utilized in disposing of the spent device, including recycling the rubber-like mass as a component of tar-like materials, such as asphalt. The solidified hydrocarbons will not leech when exposed to pressure limits used to determine landfill suitability.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1996Date of Patent: July 8, 1997Inventor: Herbert W. Holland
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Patent number: 5605630Abstract: Blood guided out of the artery of a patient by a blood pump is introduced into an arterial inlet of a blood flow direction changeover device, and it is then guided from the outlet of the changeover device to a dialzyer through an inlet thereof. The blood then leaves an outlet of the dialyzer, enters the blood flow path changeover device, leaves a venous outlet of the changeover device and returns into the vein of the patient. The dialytic liquid, on the other hand, leaves a dialytic liquid outlet, passes through a dialytic liquid flow direction changeover device and is finally discharged through a dialytic liquid outlet. Then, the respective changeover devices are changed over to reverse the respective flows. This is intermittently repeated. Thus, blood coagulation can be inhibited or prevented.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 1994Date of Patent: February 25, 1997Assignee: Scitec Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Takeru Shibata
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Patent number: 5605622Abstract: A vacuum system for use in a swimming pool installation including a swimming pool and a recirculating system. The recirculating system includes a skimmer device and a main drain coupled to a pump and a filter assembly for recirculating the water in the swimming pool. The vacuum system includes a vacuum module mounted adjacent the swimming pool, a conduit coupling the vacuum module to the pump, and a hose coupling extending from the vacuum module in liquid communication with the swimming pool, the hose coupling adapted to receive a vacuum hose.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 1995Date of Patent: February 25, 1997Inventor: Michael J. Ferraro
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Patent number: 5573678Abstract: Systems and methods for separating mono nuclear cells from whole blood rotate a separation chamber about a rotational axis. The systems and methods introduce whole blood into a first region of the chamber during its rotation to separate the whole blood into a plasma constituent, red blood cells, and an interface between the red blood cells and the plasma constituent. The interface carries mono nuclear cells. While conveying whole blood into the first region, the systems and methods collect the plasma constituent in the first region, while also collecting the red blood cells in a second region of the chamber spaced from the inlet region. The systems and methods create, while conveying whole blood into the inlet region, a back flow of plasma constituent along the interface from the second region toward the inlet region. This back flow of plasma maintains a high-relative hematocrit in the second region and a low-relative hematocrit in the inlet region.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 1995Date of Patent: November 12, 1996Assignee: Baxter International Inc.Inventors: Richard I. Brown, Kyungyoon Min
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Patent number: 5527451Abstract: A water treatment device including an arrangement having mechanisms for mechanically totaling the volume of water filtered and for indicating when the replaceable filter cartridge has reached the end of its useful life. End-of-life indication is provided by a valve mechanism for stopping flow after a predetermined volume has been filtered. The arrangement includes a novel mechanism for resetting the flow totalization mechanism. The preferred water treatment device is faucet mounted and also includes a novel flow bypass design.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 1994Date of Patent: June 18, 1996Assignee: Recovery Engineering, Inc.Inventors: Richard D. Hembree, Brian F. Sullivan
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Patent number: 5527462Abstract: A self-cleaning pressure filter system including a housing having an unfiltered liquid inlet and a filtered liquid outlet, a filter element of substantially constant cross section having an interior communicating with the unfiltered liquid inlet and an exterior communicating with the filtered liquid outlet for filtering solids from the liquid and wherein filtered out solids are left in the interior of the filter element. A cleaning unit is moved axially along the interior of the filter element and carries at least one radially expansible, substantially annular cleaning member movable in an axial path along the interior face of the filter element for removing solids accumulated thereon. In an least one embodiment of the invention, the radially expansible cleaning member is a split ring circumferentially exhaustible by a spring member. In at least one embodiment of the invention, axial reciprocation of the cleaning member is achieved without need to reverse a rotating member.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 1994Date of Patent: June 18, 1996Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.Inventors: Scott J. Davis, John D. Vander Ark
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Patent number: 5431811Abstract: A filtration device includes an ultrafilter having an inlet chamber, an outlet chamber, and an ultrafiltration membrane separating the inlet chamber from the outlet chamber. An inlet line flow connects the inlet chamber to a source of dialysis liquid. Pressure sensors determine pressure values on opposite sides of the membrane, and a controller calculates a transmembrane pressure therefrom and compares the calculated transmembrane pressure with a predetermined threshold value. If the threshold value is reached, the controller emits a threshold signal to either warn an operator or alternatively to automatically divert flow to bypass the ultrafilter.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 1993Date of Patent: July 11, 1995Assignee: Hospal AGInventors: Andrea Tusini, Luca Vinci
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Patent number: RE35667Abstract: The invention provides a faucet-mounted water filter comprising an upright tubular diverter body that is adapted to be secured to the open end of the water faucet. At the bottom of the diverter body is a water outlet through which unfiltered water can be dispensed. In the diverter body is a valve with a valve outlet duct projecting from one side of the diverter body. A manually movable valve handle projects from the diverter body and is connected to the valve for directing the flow of water either through the water outlet (when unfiltered water is required) or for diverting water through the outlet duct. A filter housing is mounted upon the duct and is preferably connected to the diverter by means of the duct. A carbon block filter element is provided in the filter housing which includes a vertical water inlet surface on an outside wall and a water outlet at the bottom. The filter housing includes an annular water distribution chamber for unfiltered water which surrounds the filter element.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1993Date of Patent: November 25, 1997Assignee: Ultrapure Systems, Inc.Inventor: Randy B. Heiligman
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Patent number: RE36913Abstract: A vacuum system for use in a swimming pool installation including a swimming pool and a recirculating system. The recirculating system includes a skimmer device and a main drain coupled to a pump and a filter assembly for recirculating the water in the swimming pool. The vacuum system includes a vacuum module mounted adjacent the swimming pool, a conduit coupling the vacuum module to the pump, and a hose coupling extending from the vacuum module in liquid communication with the swimming pool, the hose coupling adapted to receive a vacuum hose.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 1998Date of Patent: October 17, 2000Inventor: Michael J. Ferraro