Level Sensing Patents (Class 210/744)
  • Publication number: 20100219135
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for cleaning a fluid comprising a fluid supply port for receiving a contaminated fluid; a fluid return port for providing a cleaned fluid; an evaporator for evaporating liquid contaminants from the fluid; a fluid line connecting the evaporator between the fluid supply port and the fluid return port; a sensor connected to at least one of the fluid filter, the evaporator, and the fluid line; a controller connected to an output of the sensor, wherein the controller includes: a processor; and a memory device including computer readable instructions which, when executed by the processor cause the processor to perform the steps of: receiving data from the sensor; comparing the data from the sensor to reference data; sending a control signal to at least one of the fluid filter and the evaporator based on comparing the data from the sensor to the reference data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: OIL PURIFICATION SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: William Lawrence Priest, Satish Kumar, Gregory Allen Slawson
  • Publication number: 20100206816
    Abstract: A settling system may be used to separate and/or remove solid particles, such as sand, from fluids produced by wells. The container of the settling system may be cleaned without need for manned-entry.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2010
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Inventors: Verlin Frazier, Joel R. Lehman
  • Publication number: 20100193446
    Abstract: A separation unit for separating oil from oily water has a first oil to water ratio and the separation unit comprises a body which defines an inner chamber and which has a first end-wall and an opposite second end-wall and first and second side-walls that extend between the first end-wall and the second end-wall. The inner chamber is at least partly delimited by the first end-wall and the second end-wall, the first side-wall and the second side-wall. The separation unit further comprises a third wall which constitutes a separation wall extending from the first end-wall towards the second end-wall and divides the inner chamber into a first and a second sub-chamber. An inlet is defined at the first side-wall and the first end-wall and a first outlet is defined at the second side-wall and the first end-wall. A passage is defined at the third wall and the second end-wall and a fluid path from the inlet which passes through the first sub-chamber and the passage and the second sub-chamber to the first outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2008
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Inventor: Tommy Byskov
  • Publication number: 20100187186
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for separating components of a fluid mixture. The apparatus includes a vortex generation zone shaped as an inverse truncated cone, a solids collection zone, a separation zone, one or more fluid inlets, one or more gas inlets, one or more fluid outlets, and one or more gas outlets. Gas is introduced into fluid in the vortex separation zone to facilitate the separation of components of the fluid mixture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2008
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Applicant: SIEMENS WATER TECHNOLOGIES CORP.
    Inventors: Michael Howdeshell, Edward J. Godeaux, Asadollah Hayatdavoudi, Curtis D. Cooley
  • Patent number: 7762976
    Abstract: An apparatus for extracorporeal oxygenation of a patient's blood during cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. The apparatus comprises a bubble sensor, arranged at or connected to a venous line, for detecting bubbles in the venous blood received from the patient. When air bubbles are detected, a second pump is activated to draw air from an air chamber provided in an air filter connected to the venous line and arranged downstream of the bubble sensor. A first pump draws the blood from the air filter and supplies the blood to an oxygenator and to the patient via an arterial line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: Sorin Group Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Johann Schreyer, Erwin Knott, Andreas Hahn
  • Publication number: 20100147772
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided that enable the control of a screening operation based on a calculated screen blockage percentage and the velocity throughput of the screen. The apparatus includes an upstream level detector, a downstream level detector and a flow determining device which determines the volumetric flow through the screen. The apparatus may further include a blockage determination unit which determines the percent screen blockage based on the flow level upstream of the screen, the flow level downstream of the screen and the volumetric flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Applicant: JWC Environmental
    Inventors: Scott Kelly, Kenneth Oyler, James Burke
  • Publication number: 20100140184
    Abstract: The present invention shows a method for the keeping constant of a pH of a medical liquid when draining from a container, wherein CO2 and at least one further gas or gas mixture flows into the container during the draining of the medical liquid CO2. The invention furthermore shows an apparatus for the keeping constant of a pH of a medical liquid when draining from a container, wherein the container has an outflow for the medical liquid, at least one inflow for CO2 as well as an inflow for at least one further gas or gas mixture, wherein an electronic control for the determination and automatic supply of a CO2 quantity during the draining of the medical liquid is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2008
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Inventor: Achim Rauch
  • Publication number: 20100133154
    Abstract: An apparatus, system and method for removing and treating contaminated materials on a bottom of a body of water and introducing growth packets to revitalize the treated bottom of the body of water. The structure may comprise a vessel with an open face. The vessel may be lowered down to the bottom of the body of water with the face facing down. As a result, the vessel and the bottom form an isolated space. The structure may comprise at least one agitating device(s) for stirring up the materials inside the vessel so as to form a mixture containing the sediment materials which in turn contain the contaminants. Multiple at least one pipe(s) may be coupled to the vessel for transporting the mixture out of the vessel for processing (filtering, treating with chemicals, etc.) so as to neutralize or eliminate the contaminants in the mixture. Then, the treated mixture can be returned to the inside of the vessel via the at least one pipe(s).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2005
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Inventor: Thomas Kryzak
  • Publication number: 20100126940
    Abstract: There is provided an underwater pulse plasma processing apparatus including: a power supply unit for generating pulse power; at least one discharge unit for discharging the pulse power generated in the power supply unit to a water surface including an air layer or to water including air bubbles; and a plasma processing unit for removing underwater microorganisms through plasma generated by the at least one discharge device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Inventors: Han-Seong Ryu, Yeon-Chul Ha, Dong-Hyeok Seo, Dong-Eun Kim
  • Publication number: 20100102000
    Abstract: A method for filtering a chemical in which a first chemical stored in a first tank is filtered by a filter and a second chemical obtained by the filtering is stored in a second tank has: adding the capture amounts corresponding to the individual first chemicals first to n-th stored in the first tank, and getting an added capture amount; and comparing the added capture amount and a predetermined limit capture amount of the filter, and exchanging the filter based on the comparison result.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2009
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Inventors: Yoshihisa KAWAMURA, Hisako Aoyama, Daizo Mutoh
  • Patent number: 7704400
    Abstract: A system for washing contaminated sand comprises a plurality of reactors arranged in a sequence from a first to a last reactor. The first reactor is configured to receive contaminated sand. Each reactor comprises a funnel portion in a lower section thereof for accumulating a sand layer and a sand conveying device for removing sand through an aperture defined near a bottom of the funnel portion. Each reactor except the first reactor receives sand removed from a previous reactor. The system also comprises a steam supply system for providing each reactor with steam for washing the sand, a water supply system for providing the last reactor with clean water for rinsing the sand, and a fluid outlet associated with each reactor for removing fluid and providing the fluid to a separator for separating the fluid into first and second portions respectively containing relatively low and high proportions of hydrocarbons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Inventor: Paul Costinel
  • Publication number: 20100096339
    Abstract: The described implementations relate to water denitrification. One method obtains nitrate levels in influent and effluent of a moving bed media filter and determines carbon levels in the effluent. The method also doses carbon feedstock into the influent based on both the nitrate levels and the carbon levels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2009
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Inventors: Rememberance Newcombe, Mark S. Lopp
  • Publication number: 20100089838
    Abstract: Floor drain with water trap including an upper screen (19) or lip and a lower screen or threshold (32) extending to a higher level (29) than the lower edge of the upper screen, and that the water first flow below the upper screen and thereafter over the lower screen. The inlet part before the upper screen has a small cross-section or volume in relation to the water volume between the upper and the lower screen securing an efficient flushing away of light pollutions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2008
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Inventor: Gert Wilhelm Söderström
  • Patent number: 7691272
    Abstract: A method of effecting efficient flow equalization in a settling and retention basin having a peripheral wall housing a removable design flow equalization port and a filter member exteriorly of the peripheral wall by (a) observing the height of liquid level induced during wastewater flow upon the filter member relative to the flow equalization port. Thereafter (b) determining whether the observed height of step (a) is outside a desired optimum height range reflective of meeting the design flow characteristics of the design flow port. Thereafter (c) replacing the design flow equalization port with a different size flow equalization port based upon the performance of step (b).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Inventor: Jan D. Graves
  • Publication number: 20100044318
    Abstract: Processes and apparatus are provided for the nitrification and denitrification of digested biosolids. The rate of nitrification/denitrification is controlled by sensing the amount of oxygen or another parameter in the digested biosolids and adjusting the amount of oxygen supplied to the biosolids, such as through automated adjustment of an aeration device. To promote nitrification, the amount of oxygen available in the digested biosolids is increased. To promote denitrification, the amount of oxygen available in the digested biosolids is decreased. The processes and apparatus are well suited for reducing the concentration of ammonium in biosolids or off-gas resulting from aerobic thermophilic digestion of wastewater sludges. The processes and apparatus are well suited for reducing the dosage of chemicals required for dewatering operations of biosolids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Inventors: Kevin L. Stanton, Jim Eloff, Richard L. Pressley
  • Publication number: 20100043129
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for processing greywater, comprising the following steps:—supplying water to a reservoir of a greywater device;—collecting the supplied water in the reservoir;—conducting water out of the reservoir to at least one reservoir of a water consumer;—monitoring the water quality; and—flushing the water from the reservoir of the greywater device and/or the reservoir of the water consumer into a sewer drain when the water quality drops below an acceptable level. Furthermore, the invention relates to a control system for controlling a greywater device, a system for reusing greywater, comprising a greywater device and a control system, and a greywater consumer, in particular a toilet, which is connected to such a system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Inventors: Johannes Donaes Jacobus Platteel, Sjoerd Pieter Wouda
  • Publication number: 20100032380
    Abstract: A liquid surface level control method for an ion-exchange resin tower according to the present invention comprises steps of determining an operation signal (S18, S28, S38) of a discharge device of liquid (6) to be discharged from the ion-exchange resin tower (2a, 2b, 2c), based on a liquid surface level PID operation signal obtained by calculating a liquid surface level signal (S12) in a PID way and a supply flow rate signal (S10, S18, S28) supplied to the ion-exchange resin tower (2a, 2b, 2c), and moving the liquid surface level (6a) close to the target liquid surface level. Preferably, the interface level (4a) is detected by means of an interface level sensor (52), and the target liquid surface level is increased or decreased according to the increase/decrease of the interface level (4a). The interface level sensor (52) includes a plurality of light emitting parts and a plurality of light receiving parts which are opposite to each other in a one-to-one relation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Applicant: AJINOMOTO CO., INC.
    Inventors: Yuji TOKITA, Ken YAMAMOTO, Takeshi MIKI, Atsuo SHIRAISHI
  • Patent number: 7658856
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for utilizing a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid for the purpose of remediation and retrieval of, e.g., spilled crude oil and other “oil spill”-related products from marine/aquatic and terrestrial environments. In some implementations, systems and apparatus are provided for applying a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid to a volume of spilled oil, and further having structure for collecting the spilled oil. Some implementations are environmentally-neutral. Substances other than oil may be remediated as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Inventor: Ronald de Strulle
  • Publication number: 20100012593
    Abstract: A process is disclosed for treating impure water by introducing a solution of electrolyticially generated silver citrate into the impure water wherein the silver is electrolytically generated in a solution of citric acid and water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventor: Andrew B. ARATA
  • Patent number: 7645390
    Abstract: A stormwater drainage system capable of collecting, pretreating and disposing of the stormwater runoff into a dry well, further capable of stopping the flow of stormwater into the dry well in the event hydrocarbons or other contaminants are present in the stormwater. The system is also capable of isolating stagnant water in the system to prevent the infestation of mosquito larvae.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Quiktrip Corporation
    Inventor: Shawn McClanahan
  • Publication number: 20090321365
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for treating contaminated ballast water, comprising water inlets and outlets, piping connected to said inlets and outlets, at least one treatment unit connected to said piping, which treatment unit comprises UV radiation means, and catalysts, capable of, during operation, create photo-catalytic reactions in ballast water flowing through said unit, filter means for said ballast water and valve means for controlling the flow through said piping, treatment unit and filter means, characterised in control unit capable of, controlling and monitoring of said system for ensuring that no untreated water leaves the system in an uncontrolled manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Inventors: Emil Eriksson, Niclas Dahl, Per Borin, Johan Markstedt, Peter Svensson, Carl Tullstedt
  • Publication number: 20090314722
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided that enable the control of a screening operation based on a calculated screen blockage percentage and the velocity throughput of the screen. The apparatus includes an upstream level detector, a downstream level detector and a flow determining device which determines the volumetric flow through the screen. The apparatus may further include a blockage determination unit which determines the percent screen blockage based on the flow level upstream of the screen, the flow level downstream of the screen and the volumetric flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2008
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Applicant: JWC Environmental
    Inventors: Scott Kelly, Kenneth Oyler, James Burke
  • Publication number: 20090308818
    Abstract: A solid separator that uses a rotating screen, having spiral guides at its outer portion, over which a plurality of spiral-shaped scrapers are suspended. An inlet distributor including a plurality of apertures distributes a contaminated liquid flow over the screen, when rotated, permits the scrapers and guides to drive the deposited debris towards an outer edge of the screen and up a slight conical ramp and into a debris discharge sump. A level sensor may be included above the screen to activate the screen rotation based on the level of the contaminated liquid flow above the screen. An alternative embodiment uses individual scraper supports having respective jack mechanisms that permit the operator to independently lift and even rotate each scraper for additional cleaning or service. The alternative embodiment uses an assembly of two screens having an outer portion that also includes a slight conical ramp having spiral guides thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventor: David A. Laing
  • Publication number: 20090294378
    Abstract: A dual pump water treatment system for automatically replenishing the water level within a tank of a marine reef aquarium by alternating between a calcium solution reservoir and an alkalinity solution reservoir. The calcium reservoir is in connection with a first pump, while the alkalinity reservoir is in connection with a second pump. The system includes a pair of water level sensors in communication with a solid state relay on a printed circuit board of a switch box. When the water level drops the sensor triggers the relay to turn on the calcium reservoir. When the water level is replenished the first pump is turned off. When the water level drops again, the sensor triggers the relay to turn on the alkalinity reservoir. When the water level is replenished the second pump is turned off. The cycle is repeated based on water level in the tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventor: George Degiacomo
  • Patent number: 7618542
    Abstract: A blood purifying apparatus particularly suitable for continuous blood purification, and a method of controlling the same whereby the weight of body fluid removed from a patient and a feed weight to the patient can be more accurately controlled. A blood purifying apparatus 50 adapted for the continuous blood purification includes a drain C, a dialysate feed A, and a replacement fluid feed B, which are equipped with transfer pumps 5, 6, 7, respectively, reservoir containers 8, 9, and 10, respectively, that are capable of storing a predetermined volume, and fluid level sensors 11, 12, and 13, respectively. The blood purifying apparatus further includes a single weightmeter 20 capable of measuring the reservoir containers 8, 9, and 10 all at the same time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Asahi Kasei Medical Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Soichirou Okazaki
  • Patent number: 7611635
    Abstract: A system (1) for separating a fluid stream (2) comprising gas, a light liquid and a heavy liquid, the system comprising a separation vessel (5) that is arranged to define a downwardly extending separation space and comprises a downwardly sloping tube (8), the separation space having an inlet (10) for the fluid stream at a first height, an outlet (20) for heavy liquid at a second height below the first height, an outlet (30) for light liquid at a third height between the first and second heights, an outlet (70) for gas above all outlets for liquid, wherein a further outlet (51, 56) for light liquid is provided at a fourth height between the first and third heights, and wherein at least the outlet at the third height is provided with a control valve (33) that is operative to open and close in dependence of the type of liquid in the pipes at that level, and a method of separating a fluid stream comprising gas, a light liquid and a heavy liquid in such a system, wherein an indication of height of an interface bet
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: Jill Hui Chiun Chieng, Frederick Jan Van Dijk
  • Publication number: 20090266770
    Abstract: Method for maintaining the water balance in a device (4;5) including a container for waste that has been separated from the waste water, the device (4;5) constituting a part of a permanently installed water purification system for purification of waste water from a building (2). The method is characterised in that the same quantity of water that is removed from the container during sludge suction is replenished to the container before the device (4;5) again is put into full operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: NORDIC ECOSEPTICTANK HB
    Inventors: Janne Jamse, Svante Lind, Magnus Annell
  • Publication number: 20090261044
    Abstract: An environmental monitoring and control system and method are provided for preventing overflow of fluid from a compartment continuous with a settling tank. The system includes an improved pump configuration to minimize pump failure and maintenance, as well as monitoring of fluid volume within the compartment and adjustment of pumping rate as necessary to maintain an appropriate fluid volume. Operators on or off-site may be notified of compartment fluid volume to provide further redundancy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2009
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventors: Scott GODLIEN, Gary Russell
  • Publication number: 20090261045
    Abstract: A sanitizer generation system supplies power to a first and a second sanitizer generator. Each of the sanitizer generators is connected to a body of water by a circulation system. The system includes a power supply and a control system connected to the power supply and the sanitizer generators. The control system selectively delivers electric current from the power supply to the first and second sanitizer generators.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2009
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Applicant: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick H. Kilawee, Clyde A. Bailey, Leonard J. Kadlec
  • Publication number: 20090218296
    Abstract: An interactive sanitizer controller/display pad and method for controlling and selecting a dispensing rate in a sanitizer dispensing system based on the time the system is in a periodic dispensing mode and for indicating when a sanitizing dispenser needs replacement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventors: Joseph A. King, Mark Snetting, Jeffrey D. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20090211987
    Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling hematocrit during a blood processing procedure. In one aspect, a system includes a first flow path for flowing whole blood from a patient. A separator communicates with the first flow path for separating at least red blood cells from plasma. Second and third flow paths communicate with the separator for respectively flowing the separated plasma and red blood cells from the separator. A flow controller is associated with the second and third flow paths to control fluid communication between the second and third flow paths and addition of separated plasma to the separated red blood cells. The resulting red blood cells and plasma has a resulting hematocrit. Hematocrit is calculated or sensed in operative association with the third flow path and communicated to the flow controller for controlling the amount of plasma added to the third flow path and the resulting hematocrit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: Kyungyoon Min
  • Patent number: 7578942
    Abstract: In wastewater treatment equipment, a surfactant is added to a micronanobubble reaction vessel 3 by using a surfactant pump 8 and a surfactant tank 9 which constitute a surfactant adding section. Thereby, a micronanobubble generator 4 stably and efficiently produces micronanobubbles in the treatment water as raw water containing the surfactant in the micronanobubble reaction vessel 3. Thus, the micronanobubbles make it possible to efficiently pretreat the wastewater introduced into the micronanobubble reaction vessel. Consequently, it becomes possible not only to enhance efficiency of wastewater treatment but also to reduce a treatment load on wastewater treatment equipment 14 in a step subsequent to the pretreatment. Thereby, scale of the wastewater treatment equipment 14 is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kazuyuki Yamasaki, Keichiro Uda, Kazumi Chuhjoh
  • Patent number: 7566885
    Abstract: A device (2) for sterilizing a fluid comprising a sterilization zone (4) having an outlet portion (10), comprising at least one aperture (16) through which the fluid may exit the device (2), wherein the sterilization zone (4) is arranged to be irradiated by a source of ultraviolet radiation (18) such that substantially all of the internal surfaces of the outlet portion (10) are directly irradiated by the source of ultraviolet radiation (18) and wherein the source of ultraviolet radiation (18) and the at least one aperture (16) are arranged such that substantially no ultraviolet radiation may be transmitted directly from the source of ultraviolet radiation (18) through the at least one aperture (16). Preferably the device (2) comprises a shower unit. There is also disclosed a method of sterilizing a fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Inventors: Ian Stewart Helmore, Stephen Neville Croft
  • Publication number: 20090173697
    Abstract: Monochloramine is efficiently manufactured by introducing controlled quantities of an ammonia source and a chlorine source in a small side-stream of water in a small diameter pipe under turbulent flow conditions. The ammonia source and chlorine source can be injected in either order and are separated by a sufficient distance to ensure that the first chemical is adequately diffused throughout the water prior to the injection of the second chemical. A sufficient length of a mixing chamber insures that turbulent flow is maintained for a length of time sufficient to thoroughly mix the two chemicals to produce monochloramine. This mixing technique allows for the manufacture of high concentrations of monochloramine at atmospheric pressure without off gassing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Inventors: Stephen Axtell, Robert Cumming, Sam M. Jaffe, Jerry Johns, Robert Kim, Joe Phillips
  • Publication number: 20090173696
    Abstract: In an activated sludge treatment of organic waste water, excess sludge from the activated sludge aeration vessel is processed with hypochlorous acid in place of ozone without set up of aeration vessels and blowers to improve volume reduction cost of sludge without deterioration of water quality. The hypochlorous acid process is carried out by using an acidulous sodium hypochlorite aqueous solution which is prepared by mixing sodium hypochlorite aqueous solution with a dilute hydrochloric acid and diluting the resulting mixture with water within 1,000 ppm to 50,000 ppm of available chlorine concentration at a pH zone of more than 4 to less than 7.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Applicant: ES. Technologies Corp.
    Inventors: Tugio Tachikawa, Hiroshi Tachikawa, Hideo Tachikawa
  • Publication number: 20090173639
    Abstract: A water draining system for a fuel filter having a water collecting reservoir is disclosed. The water draining system has a housing adapted for attachment to the reservoir, the housing having a water sensor arranged to protrude into the reservoir and having a valve with an inlet for draining water collected in the reservoir. The valve is selectively moveable between an open and a closed configuration. The water draining system also has a controller connected to the sensor such that when the water level in the reservoir reaches a predetermined level, the sensor sends a signal to the controller and movement of the valve between the open and closed configuration is directly or indirectly dependent upon subsequent signals generated by the controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2009
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Inventors: Lana Ferrari, Phil Core
  • Publication number: 20090152205
    Abstract: In a method of treating a substantially continuous flow of liquid waste in a series of decontamination tanks, the flow is directed into a tank and when liquid waste in the tank reaches a desired level the flow is directed into a next tank of the series. Ozone is bubbled through the waste in the tanks and the waste is agitated. When a disinfection period is complete in a tank, the treated liquid waste is drained into a disposal conduit that may be connected to a conventional sewer line. A sufficient number of decontamination tanks is provided such that a tank is available to receive the flow of liquid waste at all times.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2007
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventor: Peter Klaptchuk
  • Publication number: 20090139935
    Abstract: A method for managing ballast tank circulation system comprising a means for adding one or more halogens in controlled amounts to the water within the ballast tank. Test streams of water from the ballast tank can be analyzed to determine the level of halogens in the test stream to provide a halogen content signal. A controller receives the signal and compares the signal to a set point indicative of the level of halogen desired within the ballast tank to maintain, increase, or decrease the amount of chemical added to the water within the ballast tank in controlled amounts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2008
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Applicant: SEVERN TRENT WATER PURIFICATION, INC.
    Inventors: Rudolf Matousek, Harold E. Childers, II, Earl Ahrens, Julian Routh
  • Publication number: 20090114602
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to processes and business methods and wastewater treatment units for converting the waterborne residuals from wastewater generated by food processing plants into an ingredient suitable for use in animal feeds. The ingredient produced by the processes of the present invention has a high protein content and can be used as a replacement for conventional sources of animal feed protein such as fish meal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Inventors: Andrew J. Logan, Seth Sprague Terry, Randy Swenson
  • Patent number: 7520979
    Abstract: A hemodialysis apparatus which controls dialysis conditions. The hemodialysis treatment is carried out under dialysis conditions determined by defining the course of the chronological target blood indication level as a target control line, measuring the blood indication level at each measurement point (controlling point) in the chronological course, calculating the dialysis conditions using the measured blood indication level and the target blood indication level at the next measurement point (controlling point) of the measurement point in the hemodialysis apparatus carrying out hemodialysis treatment by controlling dialysis conditions using blood volume (BV level) or blood volume change as an indication level (hereinafter blood indication level), to attain the target blood indication level at the next measurement point. This apparatus has a simple control mechanism and has little risk of misoperation or out-of-control. An operator can easily handle it and the control can be quickly and precisely carried out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: JMS Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Atsushi Ikeda
  • Publication number: 20090095690
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for improved separation or clarification of solids from a solids-laden liquid. Entrained gasses can also be removed. A liquid to be treated is introduced into the inlet of a solid-liquid separator modified to include one or more sources of vibrational energy. The liquid to be treated is directed through a conduit within the separator. Preferably the conduit within the separator is configured into a tortuous flow path to assist in the separation of solids from the liquid. Vibrational energy is applied to the flow path, preferably through the flow path conduit. As solids fall out of solution, they are collected. The clarified liquid is also collected. A vacuum can be applied to the system to assist in moving the solid-liquid mixture through the system and to provide vacuum clarification.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2008
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventor: Derald L. McCabe
  • Publication number: 20090084734
    Abstract: An Ultraviolet-C (UVC) based portable water purification system employing a novel array of baffles increases the efficiency per unit energy of irradiating UVC light in the eradication of pathogens in the water. Closed loop feedback allows monitoring the application of UVC light power to ensure high levels of pathogen eradication. This system is capable of eradicating a wide range of waterborne bacteria, viruses, protozoa, helminthes, yeast, and mold found in natural freshwater sources worldwide. By adding pre- or post-filters, the system can remove harmful organic compounds, pesticides, inorganic compounds and heavy metals from the water. The system can also be used to eradicate pathogens in fluids other than water. As a feature of this invention, a communications systems that can reach geographically dispersed populations at low cost without the need to install costly wired communications infrastructure is combined with and powered by the water purification system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2007
    Publication date: April 2, 2009
    Inventor: STEPHEN A. YENCHO
  • Publication number: 20090078652
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for purifying a waste fluid stream. The system includes a recirculation pump having an inlet for a recirculation stream and an outlet to expel a pressurized stream. The system includes a compressor having an inlet for an evaporation stream and an outlet for a pressurized evaporation stream. A primary heat exchanger has inlets for the pressurized stream and the pressurized evaporation stream, an internal surface area for heat transfer from the evaporation stream to the pressurized stream, and outlets for a cooled product stream and a heated pressurized stream. The heated pressurized stream is formed by heating the pressurized stream and the cooled product stream is formed by cooling the evaporation stream. The system includes an evaporation unit having an inlet for the heated pressurized stream and outlets for an evaporation stream and the recycled liquid bottoms stream.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2008
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Applicant: H2OIL, INC.
    Inventors: Larry D. Sanderson, James W. Schleiffarth, Leslie D. Merrill, Bradford M. Rohwer
  • Patent number: 7481940
    Abstract: A method, system, apparatus and program for effecting the decomposition of organic waste material comprises: providing a treatment tank for decomposition of organic waste material, the treatment tank containing an active biomass comprising at least one bacteria that decomposes organic material; providing at least two inlets to the treatment tank, a first inlet comprising an inlet for organic material and a second inlet comprising an inlet for an aqueous stream; a processor that receives and stores information on: the status of chemical oxygen demand of the active biomass; and the oxygen provision capability of a first organic material that can be fed into the treatment tank through the first inlet; a mass flow control system controlled by the processor which feeds the at least one organic material through the first inlet at a rate based at least in part upon the status of chemical oxygen demand in the treatment tank as recognized by the processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Assignee: NewBio E-Systems, Incorporated
    Inventors: Robert E. Clifford, III, John Mills, Greg Stadden, Michael S. Gratz
  • Patent number: 7479231
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for separating mixtures of fluids having different densities. According to one aspect of the invention, a lower density fluid is separated from a higher density fluid. A mixture of the two fluids is received in a tank. A centrifugation of the mixture is induced in the tank. The lower density fluid is evacuated from the tank until the level of an interface created at least in part by the centrifugation between the higher density fluid and the lower density fluid reaches a predetermined threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Inventor: Robert H. Bernard
  • Publication number: 20090014392
    Abstract: A system for separating hydrocarbons from water, the system including an inlet for receiving a fluid, the fluid including a water phase and a hydrocarbon phase, and a separation tank having a first partition and a second partition, wherein the first partition is configured to receive the fluid from the inlet. Furthermore, the system includes a first outlet configured to receive the water phase from the first partition, a second outlet configured to receive the hydrocarbon phase from the second partition, and a support structure configured to receive the water phase from the first outlet and the hydrocarbon phase from the second outlet. Also, a method of separating a fluid into a water phase and a hydrocarbon phase, the method including injecting the fluid containing the water phase and the hydrocarbon phase into a separation tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2008
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Applicant: M-I LLC
    Inventors: Greg McEwen, Joe Sherwood
  • Publication number: 20080296233
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides for a system and method that intensely oxidizes water as it navigates through a system and accurately, controllably neutralizes the oxidation by-products before the water exits the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Ivey Burns, Thoram Charanda, Thomas J. Nicodemo, Richard Davis, Janell Crowder
  • Patent number: 7455778
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus for desalinating water are provided. A vessel includes a water intake system, a reverse osmosis system, a concentrate discharge system, a permeate transfer system, a power source, and a control system. The concentrate discharge system includes a plurality of concentrate discharge ports. A water intake system installed on a sea-going vessel positioned on the surface of a body of water includes an apparatus for taking up seawater from the body of seawater. The apparatus includes a water intake member, a water intake positioned on the water intake member, and an impingement, entrainment, and entrapment mitigation device at least partially surrounding the water intake and including a plurality of apertures sized to prevent entry of marine organisms into the water intake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: Water Standard Company LLC
    Inventor: Andrew W. Gordon
  • Publication number: 20080277353
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating a fluid is provided and includes a fluid storage tank for partially containing a fluid and a gas, wherein the fluid storage tank includes a fluid inlet pipe and a fluid outlet pipe. The fluid treatment apparatus also includes a first aeration device, wherein the first aeration device is configured to be in flow communication with the fluid inlet pipe and the fluid portion of the tank cavity. The fluid treatment apparatus further includes a pumping device, wherein the pumping device is configured to cause the fluid portion of the tank cavity to flow through the fluid outlet pipe and a second aeration device, wherein the second aeration device is configured to be in flow communication with the fluid outlet pipe and the fluid portion of the tank cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2007
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Inventor: Raymond Leroy Frosti
  • Publication number: 20080272059
    Abstract: A system (1) for separating a fluid stream (2) comprising gas, a light liquid and a heavy liquid, the system comprising a separation vessel (5) that is arranged to define a downwardly extending separation space and comprises a downwardly sloping tube (8), the separation space having an inlet (10) for the fluid stream at a first height, an outlet (20) for heavy liquid at a second height below the first height, an outlet (30) for light liquid at a third height between the first and second heights, an outlet (70) for gas above all outlets for liquid, wherein a further outlet (51, 56) for light liquid is provided at a fourth height between the first and third heights, and wherein at least the outlet at the third height is provided with a control valve (33) that is operative to open and close in dependence of the type of liquid in the pipes at that level, and a method of separating a fluid stream comprising gas, a light liquid and a heavy liquid in such a system, wherein an indication of height of an interface bet
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2006
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventors: Jill Hui Chiun Chieng, Frederick Jan Van Dijk