Resting On Internal Stop Or Surface Patents (Class 210/477)
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Patent number: 6508933Abstract: A strainer for immersion in liquid, especially shallow water, to prevent debris from entering a pump connected by a suction pipe to the interior of the strainer. The strainer has a cylindrical housing that is closed at the bottom and covered by a circular screen at the top. As the pump sucks water, the screen prevents debris from being sucked into the strainer interior along with the water. Debris drawn against the screen's exterior is dislodged by a rotating spray arm that contains nozzles and is disposed within the strainer interior to spray water against the screen. The water is fed under pressure to the spray arm through a separate supply line tapped into the pump's outlet. The spray arm nozzles are aimed to direct water generally upward through the screen to dislodge the debris and to cause the spray arm to rotate. Hence, as the spray arm spins, the water washes substantially the full face of the screen.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2001Date of Patent: January 21, 2003Assignee: Perfection Sprinkler Co.Inventors: Thomas R. Wilkins, Charles A. Wilkins, James O. Stoneburner
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Publication number: 20030010708Abstract: A filtering unit including an upper container for receiving fluid to be filtered, a lower container for receiving the fluid from the upper container and an intermediate filter cassette. The filter cassette includes a support member connected with a flat filter member, such as a membrane filter, and can be removed with respect to each of the upper and lower containers. The filter cassette may be inserted within the upper container with sealing engagement between the support member and the internal wall of the upper container. The various disclosed embodiments include the ability to serially connect multiple filter cassettes generally between the liquid contained in the upper container and the lower container.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 11, 2002Publication date: January 16, 2003Applicant: Nalge Nunc International CorporationInventors: Richard A. Leocavallo, Mark Giverc
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Publication number: 20030006176Abstract: An electric thermos bottle capable of filtering flowing water comprises a thermos bottle, an internal glass container, a heating pipe, a water pump, a filter, and a water supply pipe. The internal glass container is disposed in the thermos bottle and forms a water-storing space therein. The heating pipe and water pump are disposed at the bottom of the water-storing space, and the filter is disposed at the top thereof. One end of the water supply pipe is connected to the water pump, and the other end thereof forms a reflux mouth and a water outlet respectively disposed above the filter and outside the thermos bottle. The water outlet is connected with a water button. Water in the water-storing space can flow via the water supply pipe to the filter and back to the water-storing space by continual action of the water pump, preventing peculiar smell and filtering out impurities.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2001Publication date: January 9, 2003Inventor: Kwei Tang Chang
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Publication number: 20030006185Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a plastic two-piece filter restraint housing 38 having a spring 32 within each two post portion of the device which spring is held therein when the portions of the restraint are joined together. The housing 38 utilizes four pivotal end tabs 16 that are removable, pivotal, circular wedge angled supports 16 or optional straight wedge shaped supports 40 that will accommodate the standard circular or square coffee filter holder assembly 20. The filter device of the present invention keeps a coffee filter from collapsing while brewing automatic drip coffee by compressing the tabs 16 on the device, inserting them inside the coffee filter 18 and holder assembly 20 and then releasing the tabs 16 of the device so that they will retain the filter 18 firmly in position. The interchangeable tabs 16, 40 will accommodate a circular or square type filter assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2001Publication date: January 9, 2003Inventor: Michael D. Hepler
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Patent number: 6493994Abstract: A gutter assembly is formed from a series of identical sections, each between twelve and eighteen inches in length. Each section is attached to one or two adjacent sections at the ends, and the final assembly attached to the eaves, soffit, or fascia of the house in the same manner as the prior art rain gutter. Each section has a section body, with an interior surface. Within the interior surface is a water-permeable screen, disposed in close proximity to the section outer housing. A discharge handle is provided to raise the screen from the interior surface, and rotate the screen in a manner such that any debris captured by the screen will be expelled from the gutter section. The handle is accessible from the grounds by means of a rod with a hook which engages a loop at the end of the handle. Each section contains a discharge passage on each end, except that the two extreme ends of the assembly contain an outer end which is sealed off, and further contain provisions for downspouts.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2002Date of Patent: December 17, 2002Inventor: Michael Lucas
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Patent number: 6458278Abstract: A filtering unit including an upper container for receiving fluid to be filtered, a lower container for receiving the fluid from the upper container and an intermediate filter cassette. The filter cassette includes a support member connected with a flat filter member, such as a membrane filter, and can be removed with respect to each of the upper and lower containers. The filter cassette may be inserted within the upper container with sealing engagement between the support member and the internal wall of the upper container. The various disclosed embodiments include the ability to serially connect multiple filter cassettes generally between the liquid contained in the upper container and the lower container.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 1999Date of Patent: October 1, 2002Assignee: Nalge Nunc International CorporationInventors: Richard A. Leoncavallo, Mark Giverc
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Patent number: 6458303Abstract: A method for making a screen filter, especially for filtering liquid or gaseous materials, in which the screen filter comprises a mounting ring or mounting element (10) and a filtering screen arranged on the mounting ring or mounting element. The filtering screen is composed of a mesh web fabric (15) and can be connected to a basket-shaped support skeleton (16). The mounting ring (10) and the support skeleton (16) are injection-molded around the mesh web fabric (15).Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2000Date of Patent: October 1, 2002Inventors: Frank Fuehrer, Birgit Pieruschka, Frank Sommer
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Publication number: 20020134715Abstract: A filter cartridge end-of-life mechanism and a filter cartridge assembly for a water treatment device. The end-of-life mechanism comprises a float which is moved along an escapement path each time the device is filled. A counting mechanism connected to the float provides a continuous visual indication of the amount of useful life remaining in the filter cartridge. The cartridge assembly includes a tray detachably connected to a filter cartridge. The tray is positioned beneath the outlet end of the cartridge to remove water treatment particles from the treated water.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 21, 2002Publication date: September 26, 2002Applicant: PUR Water Purification Products, Inc.Inventors: John D. Tanner, David J. Emmons, Erik G. Orwoll
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Publication number: 20020125187Abstract: A pour-through water treatment device. The device is a dispenser comprising a tank, pour tray and cover. The length of the device is more than twice its width. Its height is between 9.0 and about 11.0 inches. The pour tray has a downwardly facing channel into which an upwardly facing edge of the tank is inserted. The pour tray also includes baffles to prevent water from sloshing back and forth.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 29, 2002Publication date: September 12, 2002Applicant: Recovery Engineering, Inc.Inventors: John D. Tanner, David J. Emmons, Johannes N. Gaston, Douglas J. Van Ornum
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Patent number: 6439396Abstract: A system for removal of water from a hydrocarbon fluid in a tank having a weight support body structured to hold a filter therein. The filter includes a super-absorbent hydrophilic, oleophobic substance bound with a medium. The support body structure is a porous ball. A line is connected to the support body structure so as to extend outwardly of the opening of the tank. A handle is attached to an end of the line opposite the support body structure.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2000Date of Patent: August 27, 2002Inventors: Dwight D. Rutledge, Linda Marie Rutledge
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Patent number: 6423237Abstract: An apparatus and a method for separating particulate matter from a fluid, wherein the apparatus includes a specimen container, a porous arrangement positioned in a housing and suitable for collecting particulate matter in the liquid on a collection site, and a pump. The housing includes a first portion having elements that improve fluid flow through the housing and elements that decrease the porous arrangement retention characteristics of the portion. The housing also includes a portion having elements that increase the porous arrangement retention characteristics of the portion.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 1997Date of Patent: July 23, 2002Assignee: LaMina, Inc.Inventor: Raouf A. Guirguis
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Patent number: 6405875Abstract: A gravity-flow cyst-reducing water filtration device, comprising a removable high surface area cyst-reducing filtration member that provides at least 99.95% removal of 3-4 &mgr;m particles when tested in accordance with NSF standard 53, Drinking Water Treatment Units—Health Effects (September 1997). The cyst-reducing filtration member is adapted for connection to a bottom rim of a filtration cartridge sleeve of a water filter carafe, the cartridge sleeve being integral with a bottom surface of an untreated water reservoir of the water filter carafe. The cartridge sleeve further comprises an air vent hole that is located proximate to a top rim of the cartridge sleeve, wherein the cartridge sleeve further contains a filtration cartridge that is filled with an ion-exchange resin and carbon granules.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 1999Date of Patent: June 18, 2002Assignee: Corning IncorporatedInventor: Willard A. Cutler
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Publication number: 20020056680Abstract: A filter assembly including a filter vessel having an inlet and an outlet and defining a filter chamber therebetween. A basket assembly is removably supported within the filter chamber. The basket assembly has a diameter less than the diameter of the filter chamber so as to define an annular flow passage about the basket assembly. The basket assembly includes an outer permeable member and an inner permeable member having a diameter which is less than the diameter of the outer permeable member such that the inner permeable member is received within the outer permeable member so as to define an annular space therebetween and an inner flow path. The inner permeable member includes a permeable rigid closed end. The basket assembly is capable of supporting a bag type filter having at least one closed end such that it may be supported over both the inner and outer permeable members bounding the annular space therebetween.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2002Publication date: May 16, 2002Inventor: Edmund Bernard Bourgeois
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Patent number: 6383381Abstract: A water kettle and filter includes a receptacle having an interior for holding a quantity of liquid, the receptacle having a base and side walls, the side walls having a handle for enabling liquid to be poured out of the receptacle, a spout opposite the handle through which liquid can exit the receptacle, and a filter which comprises a filter plate and a water treatment cartridge mounted thereto. The filter plate is slidably mounted to the interior of the receptacle and the water treatment cartridge is slidably mounted and frictionally retained to the filter plate.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 1999Date of Patent: May 7, 2002Assignee: Hamilton Beach/Procter-Silex, Inc.Inventors: Brian J. O'Flynn, Michael Kin Chung Ho
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Patent number: 6361690Abstract: A filter assembly includes a filter vessel having an inlet, an outlet, and defining a filter chamber therebetween. A basket assembly is removably supported within said filter chamber and has a diameter less than the diameter of the filter chamber so as to define an annular flow path about the basket assembly. The basket assembly includes an outer, permeable member and an inner, permeable member having a diameter which is less than the diameter of the outer, permeable member such that the inner, permeable member is received with in the outer, permeable member so as to define an annular space therebetween and an inner flow path. The basket assembly supports a bag-type filter over both the inner and outer permeable members bounding the annular space therebetween. The bag-type filter includes a first portion having a first, larger diameter and a second portion having a second, reduced diameter. A transition portion is disposed between the first and second portions of the bag-type filter.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 1999Date of Patent: March 26, 2002Inventor: Edmund Bernard Bourgeois
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Patent number: 6357602Abstract: A system for removal of water from a hydrocarbon fluid flowing through a conduit having a support body structured to hold a filter within the conduit. The filter includes a super-absorbent, hydrophilic, oleophilic substance bound with a medium. The support body is attachable to a tank opening. The support body has a longitudinal part with an adjustable length so as to extend toward a bottom of the tank. The support body is telescopic with perforations formed thereon so as to allow hydrocarbon fluid to encounter the filter.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2000Date of Patent: March 19, 2002Inventors: Dwight D. Rutledge, Linda Marie Rutledge
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Patent number: 6355168Abstract: A cooking oil storage and filtering system for filtering and storing used cooking oil prior to reuse. The cooking oil storage and filtering system includes an housing assembly with a funnel portion, an upper portion, a bottom portion, a pair of track members, and a housing lid member; a filter assembly which is slidably insertable into the housing assembly along the track members and is designed for removing particulate matter from a quantity of cooking oil, and a kettle assembly, which can be positioned within the bottom portion of the housing and is designed for storing the quantity of cooking oil.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2000Date of Patent: March 12, 2002Inventor: Lucious White
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Patent number: 6344140Abstract: A filtration device for separating filtrate and concentrate from a solution that contains a dead stop feature. The dead stop volume is determined by the location of an outlet port. The apparatus includes a housing with a means for collecting filtrate and a filter unit insertable within the housing. The filter unit contains a semipermeable membrane thereon for separating filtrate from concentrate.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2000Date of Patent: February 5, 2002Inventor: Peter Zuk, Jr.
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Patent number: 6294095Abstract: A silt filtration system for use with storm water catch basins of the type which include a fixed frame with a drain opening at the top of the catch basin and a grate covering the drain opening and includes a base frame having a pair of end rails and a pair of side rails adapted to fit within the fixed frame at the top of the catch basin. The silt filtration system also includes a pair of lengthwise support bars or rods which are removably positioned within the base frame and a pair of transverse support bars or rods which are removably positioned over the lengthwise support bars and supported by the side rails. The lengthwise and transverse bars suspend a filter bag within the catch basin which includes a pocket at the top end for receiving the lengthwise support bars and the transverse support bars. The silt filtration system may include a deflector for deflecting silt and/or sediment and the like over the grate and into the filter bag.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2000Date of Patent: September 25, 2001Assignee: Erosion Control Services, Inc.Inventor: Randy Lewis
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Patent number: 6280621Abstract: The blood filter cartridge of the invention can be used as a sample cup of an analyzer without sucking bubbles, which comprises a blood filtering material, a holder containing the blood filtering material and having a blood inlet and a filtrate outlet, and a filtrate receiver for receiving filtrate discharged from the filtrate outlet, the filtrate receiver has an upper end having a difference in height or structure for returning the filtrate from the upper end of the filtrate receiver to the filtrate outlet.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2000Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kenichiro Yazawa, Takaki Arai, Osamu Seshimoto
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Patent number: 6269957Abstract: An ultrafiltration device has a filter membrane sealed inside a reservoir body that has one or more ports and a closed portion distal to the port(s), and the filter membrane is sealed to the body along a closed contour widely surrounding the port(s) to provide a large area filtered outflow path. The method is effective to rapidly isolate a predetermined amount of a desired retentate in the distal portion and is also useful for quantitative transfer of smaller molecules and for multi-step processing of sample arrays. A frusto-conical peripheral filter provides high ratio of effective filter area, and may be configured for hydrostatic deadstopping and little or no wicking, greatly enhancing recovery time and efficiency. Novel constructions and methods of manufacture enhance filtration or separation vessels of various sizes.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 1999Date of Patent: August 7, 2001Assignee: Orbital Biosciences, LLCInventors: William F. Bowers, Basil Yankopoulos, Timothy Towle
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Patent number: 6263781Abstract: A method and assembly is provided to mix solids with a liquid in the preparation of a beverage. The assembly includes a disposable cup receptacle with an open top end. On the interior of the cup receptacle a ridge is positioned a predetermined distance below the open top end. A solid beverage flavorant, such as coffee or tea is placed in the cup receptacle. A disposable filter insert is positionable within the cup receptacle and contains a filter screen that is water permeable, yet blocks the solid beverage flavorant. The filter insert is placed into the cup receptacle after the solid beverage flavorant has been added to the cup receptacle. The filter insert is configured to engage the ridge of the interior of the cup receptacle, thereby retaining the filter insert in place over the solid beverage flavorant. Water is then poured into the cup receptacle through the filter insert. The water mixes with the solid beverage flavorant and produces the desired beverage.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2000Date of Patent: July 24, 2001Inventor: Juanito B. Calagui
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Patent number: 6258268Abstract: A filter box of the type used for separating solid materials from liquid having an outer shell constructed of a liquid impervious material and an inner shell having perforated sides and flooring and being disposed within said outer shell and spaced therefrom so as to define a material collection area between the two shells. Upon loading liquid-laden material into the filter box through the open upper end thereof, liquid and smaller particles pass through the perforated sides and flooring of the inner shell into the collection area leaving the larger solids within the inner shell for removal. One end of the filter box defines a hinge-mounted door for providing access to the interior of the filter box for removal of the larger solids as well as access to one end of the material collection area.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2000Date of Patent: July 10, 2001Inventor: John W. Lake
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Patent number: 6250209Abstract: A beverage brewing filter structure used to retain a brewing filter and a beverage brewing substance. The structure is designed to create a consistent bed depth and a plurality of wicking points in order to give a more even extraction of the beverage brewing substance and a better taste profile over other standard filter structures. The structure is generally a frame including a base, and a wall extending from the base to a top rim, thus defining a generally annular mouth. The frame defines open spaces therein. The wall is made up of a plurality of ribs, each of which has a first angled portion that extends from the base and a second angled portion that extends from the first angled portion to the top rim. The first angled portion of the ribs defines a smaller angle relative to the base than the second angled portion. The ribs of the wall extend radially inwardly to define a base which is positioned in a plane and has a plurality of gaps therethrough.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 1999Date of Patent: June 26, 2001Assignee: Bunn-O-Matic CorporationInventor: Randy D. Pope
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Patent number: 6238552Abstract: A universal filter insert apparatus 10 for a water purifier includes a container insert 12 having substantially cylindrical or conical side walls 11 and an annular lip 17 at an upper portion thereof. A plurality of resilient sealing members 36 are stacked about the upper portion of the container. Each of the resilient sealing members includes (i) an internal sealing diameter 50 adapted to engage the container annular lip and (ii) a uniquely-shaped annular sealing flange 38 for engaging a filter receiving aperture 54 of a particular water purifier 52. At least one guide slot 22 extends along a portion of the bottom of the container insert. A granular filter medium is placed within the container insert and sealed therein with a container lid 30. The container lid has a plurality of apertures 34 sized to let water pass through and also includes a raised handle 32 for ease of insertion and removal of the universal filter insert.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 1999Date of Patent: May 29, 2001Inventor: Roy T. Shannon
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Patent number: 6221416Abstract: Flavoring, dietary minerals, vitamins, other nutritional supplements, or medicines may be dispensed in a filter assembly designed to cap a neck or open end of a bottle. A cap has a manual valve extending from the top thereof and operatively connected to the bottom thereof is an activated carbon block tubular filter having a porosity of between about 8-120 microns. Disposed within the tubular carbon block is a soluble solid porous element, having a porosity greater than that of the carbon block, and having a solubility between about one quarter and one-one hundredth of sucrose. The soluble element is at least in part a flavoring, vitamin, dietary mineral, nutritional supplement, or medicine. It also may be tubular, and substantially lining the soluble porous element may be a hydrophobic membrane which allows passage of water therethrough under pressure, but not under static pressure conditions.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 1999Date of Patent: April 24, 2001Assignee: Innova Pure Water Inc.Inventor: John E. Nohren, Jr.
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Patent number: 6156199Abstract: A filtration device for separating filtrate and concentrate from a solution that contains a dead stop feature. The dead stop volume is determined by the location of an outlet port. The apparatus includes a housing with a means for collecting filtrate and a filter unit insertable within the housing. The filter unit contains a semipermeable membrane thereon for separating filtrate from concentrate.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 1998Date of Patent: December 5, 2000Inventor: Peter Zuk, Jr.
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Patent number: 6103114Abstract: A pour-through water treatment device. The device comprises a carafe, a pour tray including a lower portion, an outer lid, and an inner lid. The outer lid is sealed to and substantially covers a forward portion of the lower portion, and has a lip extending over an upper edge of the carafe. The inner lid covers an opening in the outer lid for pouring untreated water into the pour tray. A bayonet-type filter locking and sealing arrangement is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 1998Date of Patent: August 15, 2000Assignee: Recovery Engineering, Inc.Inventors: John D. Tanner, David J. Emmons, Brian D. Gale
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Patent number: 6083392Abstract: A funnel having at least one channel or groove formed by projected ribs in the sidewalls of the funnel. The projections space the sides of a filter membrane placed inside the funnel, thereby preventing the sides of the filter insert from adhering to the sidewalls of the funnel and allowing the fluid to flow through the sides of the filter insert and into the grooves or channels that conduct the fluid to the discharge orifice of the funnel. The projected ribs are preferably a plurality of raised ribs arranged at approximately 45 degree intervals about the funnel interior surface.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 1998Date of Patent: July 4, 2000Assignee: Empire Comfort Systems, Inc.Inventor: Donald P. Rigney
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Patent number: 6039871Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there is provided an improved device for the dialysis of small fluid samples, particularly biological fluids. The device of the present invention contains a cylindrical outer sleeve open at both ends. The sidewall portion of the sleeve near the top end contains a channel in and around the inner surface and the sidewall continues to extend upwardly from the channel to the open top end. An inner sleeve is positioned within and in axial alignment with the outer sleeve. The inner sleeve has a cylindrical flange at an open top end that is inserted in the channel of the outer sleeve. The bottom end of the inner sleeve is open and extends below the bottom end of the outer sleeve. A space exists between the sidewalls of the two sleeves near the bottom end of the outer sleeve. A dialysis membrane covers the open bottom end of the inner sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 1998Date of Patent: March 21, 2000Assignee: Pierce Chemical CompanyInventor: Laura L. Sykaluk
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Patent number: 6039887Abstract: An apparatus for straining or rinsing is constructed with a bowl portion having an upper rim, the bowl portion being provided with a plurality of perforations through the wall thereof. The bowl portion provided with an engagement portion, which may be integrally formed therewith, for engaging with a predeterminable portion of a kitchen sink. Various embodiments of the invention engage with sink wall intermediate of a dual sink arrangement, or a standardsink faucet or valve. The employment of the engagement portion obviates the need to occupy the bottom surface of the sink during such straining or rinsing. In addition, the invention includes a method of employing a colander.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 1997Date of Patent: March 21, 2000Inventor: Yaffa Licari
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Patent number: 6000094Abstract: A removable and replaceable filter and filter holder is mounted within a mop cleaning bucket to receive dirt settling under gravity from the contained liquid with the dirt collecting in, and passing through so as to be trapped below, the filter and its holder. The holder is a rigid or substantially rigid perforated support structure spaced above and below the dirt receiving filter. In one embodiment, the holder is supported in the bucket in spaced relationship to the bottom of the bucket and protects the filter. The filter is a thin, sturdy, semi-rigid and floatable member with many holes so soiled water passes through and collects in the bottom of the bucket. The construction of the filter can be selected depending upon the material (grease sludge, dirt, oil, soot, or food particles) to be mopped up. The combination of the filter and filter holder blocks or dampens turbulence and prevents sediment from being stirred up in the bottom portion of the bucket.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 1998Date of Patent: December 14, 1999Assignee: Scot Young Research, Inc.Inventor: Ronald Scot Young
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Patent number: 5989421Abstract: A filter assembly (10) with a filter housing (12) and a bag-type filter element (14). A collar (36) is disposed inside the housing below an opening (42) through which a process stream is introduced into the filter assembly. The filter element includes a filter bag (70) to which a sealing ring (72) is attached. The sealing ring is formed to define a channel (84) in which the collar is seated. The sealing ring also has a lip (86) that snap secures against a complementary stepped surface (60) formed around the collar. A gasket (85) attached to the sealing ring forms a liquid-tight barrier between the collar and the sealing ring. The collar is also formed with a boss (62). The sealing ring defines a alignment notch (88). In order to seal the filter element in place, boss (62) must seat in alignment notch (88); this ensures that when the filter element is secured in place, it is properly aligned with the other components of the filter assembly.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 1997Date of Patent: November 23, 1999Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.Inventors: Scott J. Davis, John D. Vander Ark, Jr.
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Patent number: 5979669Abstract: A blood filter unit having a blood filter holder containing a blood filtering material of a glass fiber filter and a microporous membrane is described. The holder has a blood inlet and a filtrate outlet, and accommodates the blood filtering material so that the microporous membrane is located on the filtrate outlet side and has a space between the blood filtering material and the filtrate outlet. The holder provides means for preventing adhesion of the blood filtering material on the filtrate outlet side. The inventive blood filter unit allows separation of a desired volume of plasma or serum for analysis without interference by the hematocrit value of the blood.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 1997Date of Patent: November 9, 1999Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masao Kitajima, Kenichiro Yazawa, Shigeru Tezuka, Fumio Sugaya, Akemi Higo, Kiyotaka Fujiwara
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Patent number: 5948246Abstract: The vacuum filtration device has a disposable filter funnel and a disposable filtrate receptacle. The funnel and receptacle are used with a reusable base that is connected to a vacuum source. When the receptacle and funnel are mounted on the base the vacuum is applied through a connecting passage to the receptacle to draw the filtrate from the funnel into the receptacle.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 1993Date of Patent: September 7, 1999Inventor: Peter Zuk, Jr.
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Patent number: 5916092Abstract: A rain cover 10 prevents leaves and other debris from plugging a conventional gutter G, while rain water from the roof of a building is transmitted to the gutter by surface tension. The cover includes a main plate 14 inclined for allowing water and debris to pass by gravity from an upper portion 30 to a lower portion 32. A front portion 16 of each of a plurality of traversely spaced fins 14 extend laterally beyond an outer wall of the gutter. Pairs of adjacent fins 14 are separated by a uniform traverse gap of less than 0.05 inches to significantly increase the return of water to the gutter by surface tension with the fin walls. The cover may be economically manufactured from plastic or metal, and may be easily installed on an existing gutter system. The separation device of the present invention may be used in other applications to separate solid debris from a fluid.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 1998Date of Patent: June 29, 1999Inventor: Jay Chen
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Patent number: 5913962Abstract: The present invention relates to an espresso brewing-head unit comprising locking member for detachable attachment to a brewing unit of an espresso machine. A filter for an espresso machine is meant to be improved in a general manner. To this end, the espresso brewing-head unit comprises a pot-shaped coffee receiving container consisting of a plastic material, whose bottom is provided with a filter plate having coffee exit openings and whose upper edge portion in the side wall has firmly embedded therein a substantially surrounding reinforcement ring of a stable material, preferably metal, the reinforcement ring comprising attachment portions which are part of the locking member.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 1998Date of Patent: June 22, 1999Assignee: Maxs AgInventors: Ruedy Gasser, Jurg Strub
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Patent number: 5897787Abstract: A strainer formed by a body member defining an inlet passage for receiving the fluid and an outlet passage for discharging the fluid. A chamber is connected to the outlet passage and an internal passage connects the inlet passage to the chamber. A separator is disposed in the chamber for separating particles from the fluid as the fluid passes through the chamber. The fluid is thus routed into the inlet passage, and through the inlet passage to the chamber where the particles are separated. The fluid is then passed to the discharge passage for discharging the fluid to a conduit.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 1997Date of Patent: April 27, 1999Assignee: Dresser Industries, Inc.Inventor: Timothy Robert Keller
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Patent number: 5894786Abstract: A collapsible dripping apparatus for liquids having a filter holding member, a bellows member and a supporting brim member. The apparatus can be disassembled into three pieces to be made compact when the apparatus is not being used. Therefore, the apparatus can be stored or brought to someplace without occupying a large space. Further, the assembled apparatus has a fan-like shape so as to be able to drip liquid material, such as coffee and tea using a filter which is available on the market.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1997Date of Patent: April 20, 1999Inventor: Isamu Miya
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Patent number: 5888399Abstract: This invention provides a "one-size-fits-all" water-removing funnel insert having a filter and a supporting body, comprising a porous surface, that upholds the filter. When inserted into a base funnel, the water-removing finnel insert moves automatically to a position that provides maximal stability for the water-removing funnel insert. Hydrocarbon emulsions are poured into the base funnel and dehydrated by the water-removing funnel insert upon passing through the filter placed on the supporting body. The supporting body may be attached to a support tube, to an upwardly-extending bar or to both the support tube and the upwardly-extending bar. Another option in designing the supporting body is to use a support tube that is an extension of the upwardly-extending bar. For the dehydrated hydrocarbon stream to flow through the upwardly-extending bar into the support tube, openings are needed in a section of the upwardly-extending bar existing below the porous surface of the supporting body.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 1997Date of Patent: March 30, 1999Inventors: Dwight Dean Rutledge, Linda Marie Rutledge
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Patent number: 5863424Abstract: A filter element for use in a pan, such as a oil pan for a vehicle transmission or internal combustion engine, is configured for positioning in the opening of a sump in the pan. In order to position the filter element, an inwardly projecting shoulder is provided on the wall of the sump upon which a shoulder on the frame of the filtering elements rests. Between the two shoulders a resilient seal is positioned and held compressed by a latching arrangement on the filter element. A preferred latching arrangement comprises plurality of detents that project laterally from the filter element frame and seat within indentations in the wall of the sump. Preferably, the filter element has a pleated filter media.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 1998Date of Patent: January 26, 1999Assignee: Dana CorporationInventor: Brian Thomas Lee
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Patent number: 5863431Abstract: A water permeable disposable filter, the filter including a side wall having an open top region and a sealed bottom region with indicia means is provided. The filter is provided with interior and exterior surfaces, the indicia means located on the interior surface of the side wall of the filter for indicating the amount of ground coffee to be filled into said filter in order to produce a desired quantity of the brewed coffee beverage. The indicia means may include both numbering and level graduations.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 1996Date of Patent: January 26, 1999Inventor: Diana Salzburg
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Patent number: 5858233Abstract: A transition manifold is provided for use in association with the upper end of a generally cylindrical heat exchanger fiber bundle having a plurality of vertically extending conduits with open upper ends terminating in substantially co-planar fashion. The transition manifold is specially configured for redirecting blood flowing out of the upper end of the heat exchanger fiber bundle radially outwardly around the fibers of a concentric, surrounding oxygenator fiber bundle. The transition manifold includes a generally conical wall member defining a surface which extends at a relatively flat angle with respect to a plane perpendicular to a vertical central axis of the heat exchanger fiber bundle. The surface of the conical wall member diverges away from the upper end of the heat exchanger fiber bundle in a direction moving radially outwardly from the central axis.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 1996Date of Patent: January 12, 1999Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventors: Roger J. Elgas, Robert F. Gremel, Robert Cushing Hamlen
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Patent number: 5846418Abstract: The point-of-use water treatment system for treating water to be dispensed from a container includes a filter media positioned adjacent a water input opening of the container, through which water is filtered into the container. The filter media includes a water soluble disinfectant positioned thereon or therein, with the preferred disinfectant tetraglycine hydroperiodide, chloramine-T, or calcium hypochlorite. The disinfectant dissolves in the water as it passes through the filter, and reduces the biological activity of microbiological agents in the water. A point-of-use method of the present invention which reduces microbiological contamination in a predetermined volume of water to be dispensed from a container which utilizes a filter media containing a water soluble disinfectant impregnated thereon is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 1997Date of Patent: December 8, 1998Assignee: Teledyne Industries, Inc.Inventors: Paul Martin Thompson, Daniel L. Glidden
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Patent number: 5840185Abstract: Embodiments of a filter cartridge for a sports bottle are shown and described. Each embodiment has a member for containing or attaching to a filter media and having a means of securing the cartridge inside the bottle neck without requiring modification of the bottle or bottle cap. The preferred cartridge includes a generally cylindrical cup or ring for holding media, and an extension that fits between the cap and the bottle neck to secure the cartridge in place while preserving a water-tight seal. The extension has a slanted inner surface that diverts the cap's knife edge inward slightly and then seals with the outside surface of the knife blade. As the cap is installed and the knife presses down against the extension, the knife forces the expandable or flexible extension outward slightly to seal against the neck.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 1996Date of Patent: November 24, 1998Assignee: Douglass E. HughesInventors: Douglass Hughes, Roger P. Reid
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Patent number: 5833860Abstract: Adsorptive sample preparation device and method effective for concentrating, desalting and/or purifying biomolecules. An adsorptive membrane is used to bind biomolecules, which biomolecules can then be eluted with a suitable desorption agent. In a preferred form, the adsorptive filter means is a particle-laden semipermeable membrane having at least one of its major surfaces, preferably both of its major surfaces, covered with a thin fabric. In the method of the invention for concentrating biomolecules or desalting or purify from a solution, the sample reservoir of the above-described adsorptive sample preparation device is filled with an analyte solution, placed in a fixed angle or swinging bucket centrifuge rotor, the solution is driven through the membrane, and analyte obtained as a result of adsorption on the membrane is recovered by washing and then eluting with a suitable desorption agent. A method of sealing the membrane in the device is also set forth.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 1996Date of Patent: November 10, 1998Assignee: Millipore Investment Holdings LimitedInventors: William Kopaciewicz, Ingeborg Cann, Donald G. Sheer
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Patent number: 5830360Abstract: A gravity fed, pour-through water filtration device includes a chamber housing a spiral filter including a biocidal material and an annular holding chamber. Several porous separator disks, a volume of filtration media, and a cyst membrane are positioned beneath the spiral filter and holding chamber. The device is effective in significantly reducing the number of bacteria, viruses and cysts present in the filtrated water.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 1996Date of Patent: November 3, 1998Inventor: B. Robert Mozayeni
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Patent number: 5824218Abstract: The present invention relates to a permanent espresso filter insert for insertion into an espresso machine, the insert comprising a substantially flat filter disc which is penetrated by a plurality of filter openings substantially in the flow direction of the medium to be filtered, with a perforated disc being designed and arranged downstream of the filter disc in flow direction in such a manner that the medium to be filtered is swirled and deflected to an increased extent. With the permanent espresso filter insert of the invention, it is possible to improve the formation of the head or cream also in espresso machines having low working pressures.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1995Date of Patent: October 20, 1998Assignee: Maxs AGInventors: Ruedi Gasser, Jurg Strub
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Patent number: 5800707Abstract: The present invention concerns a water filter designed to be inserted into a drinking water circuit. The water filter has a support designed to house removably one or more different filters each having a different filtering property and adapted to be mounted either independently of each other or associated in a particular combination so as to effect a filtration of the drinking water according to its composition.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 1996Date of Patent: September 1, 1998Assignee: Robert Krups GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Hans-Jurgen Mehnert, Erich Hoffmann, Dorothea Pytlik
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Patent number: RE36343Abstract: A drain filtering device is disclosed. The improvement over the prior art .[.is comprised of.]. .Iadd.includes .Iaddend.reducing the filter size from an elongated device that spans the length of .[.the gutter.]. .Iadd.drain .Iaddend.system to a modular unit which is necessary only at the drain .[.sight.]. .Iadd.outlet.Iaddend.. The .[.invention also includes.]. .Iadd.filtering device has .Iaddend.an inclined upper face which is positioned on the upstream side of the .[.drain in the gutter and a downspout.]. .Iadd.channel of the drain and an .Iaddend.attachment which locates the .[.invention.]. .Iadd.filtering device .Iaddend.in the .[.gutter.]. .Iadd.channel .Iaddend.such that the flow of filtered water passes through the .[.invention.]. .Iadd.device .Iaddend.and into the .[.downspout.]. .Iadd.outlet.Iaddend.. The debris that collects in the .[.gutter.]. .Iadd.channel .Iaddend.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 1997Date of Patent: October 19, 1999Inventor: Charles Silva