Destroying Living Organisms Patents (Class 210/748.11)
  • Publication number: 20130175711
    Abstract: A UV sterilization chamber is provided to a humidifier having a water reservoir, a humidifying element and a pathway for directing water provided by the water reservoir to the humidifying element of the humidifier. The pathway is provided in a humidifier base, over which a humidifier enclosure is removably placed. The UV sterilization chamber includes a serpentine portion of the pathway and a UV radiation source positioned for illuminating the portion of the pathway with UV light. Upwardly-directed projections in the base border a perimeter of the pathway; and a downwardly-directed projection of the UV radiation source extends between the upwardly-directed projections when the enclosure is mated with the base, thereby locating the UV radiation source over the portion of the pathway. A switch disables the UV radiation source when the enclosure is removed from the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Applicant: Kaz USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Francis C. NUTTER, Zhijing Wang, Robert Zhao, Edison Lu, Yongming Sun, Sean Wang, Christopher S. Kanel
  • Patent number: 8480906
    Abstract: In production of ultrapure water by purifying primary pure water with a secondary pure water manufacturing apparatus and a tertiary pure water manufacturing apparatus, high-purity ultrapure water is produced, wherein generation of hydrogen peroxide is minimized and the concentrations of TOC, DO, and hydrogen peroxide are reduced to the limit. In an ultrapure water manufacturing system, each of the secondary pure water manufacturing apparatus and the tertiary pure water manufacturing apparatus includes an ultraviolet oxidation device and a deionization device, downstream therefrom, by using an ion exchange resin. UV light control is performed in such a way that the hydrogen peroxide concentration results in 1 to 30 ?g/L and the TOC concentration results in 1 to 10 ?g/L at the outlet of the ultraviolet oxidation apparatus of the secondary pure water manufacturing apparatus and, in addition, the TOC concentration results in 0.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Kurita Water Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: Hideki Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 8475725
    Abstract: A method and energy-efficient apparatus for the treatment of liquids through the joint use of a gas mixture-oxidizing agent and UV radiation. This method uses an excimer UV lamp performing two actions affecting the liquid and changing its properties with UV radiation and the generation of a gas mixture containing strong oxidizing agents for influence on the liquid, disinfection and purification of the liquid being treated from contaminants. The apparatus incorporates energy efficient design features to reduce energy consumption and operational costs, as well as an excimer lamp design that improves performance parameters to surpass and outlast existing devices. Unique electrode designs, cleaning systems, and materials combine to create a state-of-the-art liquid treatment apparatus that exceeds existing industrial analogs and norms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: East Coast Distribution, Inc.
    Inventors: Alexander Antipenko, Dmitry Budovich, Richard H. Sakaji, Alexander Medvedev, Eugene Veklerov, Vladimir Rakhamimov
  • Patent number: 8475714
    Abstract: According to embodiments of the invention, a selective ultraviolet disinfection method is provided. The method includes selecting operating parameters for an ultraviolet disinfection process of flowing liquid carrying first and second types of entities to affect the first type of entities while the second type of entities remains intact, illuminating the liquid with ultraviolet light according to the operating parameters and continuously adjusting the operating parameters based on real-time measurements of ultraviolet transmission and flow rate of the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Atlantium Technologies Ltd.
    Inventors: Limor Barak, Vladimir Glukhman, Iian Wilf
  • Patent number: 8460556
    Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide a bacterial eliminator suitable for reduction in size or lowering of cost. A UV filament lamp is preheated by a control section even when water is not flowing. Consequently, the UV filament lamp can be lit immediately upon flow of water. The lamp can thereby be kept unlit when water is not flowing. Consequently, the lamp is unlikely to overheat easily when water is not flowing. Also, power consumption is reduced and lifespan of the lamp can be prolonged. If the lamp overheats and unheated water flows in, there is a possibility of the lamp being damaged. In order to avoid such damage, a special structure or material is normally required. Since overheating of the lamp can be avoided with the invention, a special structure or material for avoiding damage to the lamp due to unheated water are not necessary, or the structure can be simplified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Inventor: Youichi Nishioka
  • Patent number: 8460353
    Abstract: A fluid disinfection unit [40] is incorporated into a patient warming/cooling system [10], to reduce the risk of bacteria buildup in the warming/cooling fluid, which is typically water. More particularly, a mobile housing [17] contains the operable components for circulating warming/cooling fluid to a patient [12], including a pump [23], a heating/cooling source [24], a reservoir [22], a controller [26] and a control panel [32] to assist a user in operating the components. The reservoir [22] has upper [22a] and lower [22b] sections, for replenishing water and circulating water, respectively. A UV source [40] is mounted so as to extend through both reservoir sections [22a, 22b], to simultaneously emit UV light into both sections during circulation of the warming/cooling fluid, thereby to disinfect the water contained therein. The UV source [40] includes a bulb [42] protected within a transparent cover [44] that is completely transparent, and has been treated so as to be shatterproof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Cincinnati Sub-Zero Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony V. Beran, Jerome B. Batta, Jacqueline C. Aronhalt
  • Patent number: 8454839
    Abstract: Methods for modifying the physical, chemical and/or biological properties of a fluid by irradiation are provided. In one embodiment, a method comprising supplying a flow of a fluid to an irradiation chamber; focusing the flow of the fluid so as to create at least one fluid layer; and applying radiation to the fluid layer in a defined portion of the irradiation chamber thereby modifying at least one physical, chemical or biological property of the fluid layer is provided. Systems for the implementation of such methods are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Macopharma
    Inventor: Pierre-Eloi Bontinck
  • Publication number: 20130131639
    Abstract: Methods and compositions for the prevention or reduction of platelet transfusion associated complications are provided. Methods are provided to modify donor whole blood or platelets prior to transfusion to prevent or reduce alloimmune platelet refractoriness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Inventor: Sherrill J. Slichter
  • Patent number: 8445864
    Abstract: A system includes a UV light source and an optical medium coupled to receive UV light from the UV light source. The optical medium is configured to emit UV light proximate to a surface to be protected from biofouling. A method corresponds to the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Matthew D. Thoren, Andrew M. Piper
  • Patent number: 8414779
    Abstract: A UV disinfection system and methods of UV disinfection are provided. The disinfection system may include a UV transparent conduit to carry a flowing liquid to be disinfected, the conduit having an inlet to receive the liquid and an outlet to discharge the liquid and two or more radiation sources positioned within the conduit substantially perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the conduit. The walls of the conduit may be coated with a reflective coating acting as a back-surface mirror for enhancing the performance of the disinfection system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Atlantium Technologies Ltd.
    Inventor: Uri Levy
  • Patent number: 8409500
    Abstract: A bottle, a system and a method sterilize a liquid. The bottle has an interior to hold the liquid and an ultraviolet light emitting lamp that extends into the interior. A cord may be attached to the bottle so that pulling the cord may power the ultraviolet light emitting lamp and/or charge a battery used to power the ultraviolet light emitting lamp. The bottle may have a status light that indicates that the ultraviolet light emitting lamp may have an amount of power equal to or greater than a threshold value, such as, for example, an amount of power necessary for the ultraviolet light emitting lamp to operate for ninety seconds. The bottle may have a removable lid located opposite to the ultraviolet light emitting lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Neverest Travel Solutions
    Inventor: Eric James
  • Patent number: 8405046
    Abstract: The output wavelengths of an electrodeless lamp are controlled by passing a fluid over the surface of the lamp to control its temperature. The stabilized temperature prevents thermal runaway of the lamp and stabilizes the output wavelengths of the lamp. When the fluid passing over the lamp is water, the lamp can be used for sanitary treatment of the water. Lamp radiation can be enhanced by shaping the electrodeless lamp to provide maximally effective photonic output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Inventor: David Richard NeCamp
  • Publication number: 20130056425
    Abstract: A highly portable solar UV disinfection and water storage container with a uniquely traceable security seal that passively indicates by means of a permanent photochromic color change the efficacy of the UV disinfection process performed upon the drinking water within the sealed container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2012
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: Aquasolix Corporation
    Inventor: Aquasolix Corporation
  • Patent number: 8388850
    Abstract: A mobile water treatment system is disposed on a trailer of a truck. There is an intake filter, an intake hose, a pump or multiple pumps for water intake and sending water throughout the system, a filtering section that may include sand and/or bag filter or other types of filters, an ozone treatment section after the filters, a holding tank after the ozone section, a UV treatment section after the holding tank, and a chlorination tank. The water may then be sent to a water storage facility or other place as desired. The system includes a generator for power to run the system, and a controller for the system. The ozone section makes use of a misting nozzle in order to increase ozone contact time, and decrease ozone breakdown. The UV section makes use of a slightly downward tilted table with UV bulbs and reflectors above it, and preferably is mounted on a leveling system. A method of treating water uses the mobile system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Neos International, LLC
    Inventor: Roger A. Delano
  • Patent number: 8361384
    Abstract: A water treatment device and methods of treating cooling tower water are described. The water treatment device utilizes ultraviolet radiation, a magnetic field, and ozone fortified air to treat cooling tower water, resulting in reduced microbial contamination and reduced alkalinity in cooling tower water. Cooling tower water may consequently be run at higher cycles of concentration while reducing or eliminating deposition of minerals on cooling tower components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Aardvark IP Holding, LLC
    Inventor: David Kolstad
  • Patent number: 8337709
    Abstract: A method for treating a liquid using an apparatus includes: (a) a pump volute or hydrocyclone head having an inlet and an outlet, (b) a throat having a first opening, a second opening and a central axis, wherein the first opening is connected to the outlet of the pump volute or hydrocyclone head, (c) a tank connected to the second opening of the throat, and (d) a wave energy source having a first electrode within the pump volute or hydrocyclone head that extends through the outlet into the first opening of the throat along the central axis of the throat, and a second electrode within the tank that is spaced apart and axially aligned with first electrode. The method includes the steps of providing the above-described apparatus, supplying the liquid to the inlet of the pump volute or hydrocyclone head, and irradiating the liquid with one or more wave energies produced by the wave energy source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Foret Plasma Labs, LLC
    Inventor: Todd Foret
  • Patent number: 8338808
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an ultraviolet radiation lamp. The lamp comprises: (i) a substantially sealed cavity comprising a mercury-containing material; and (ii) a heating unit disposed exteriorly with respect to the cavity. The heating unit is disposed in contact with a first portion of the cavity comprising the mercury-containing material. The heating unit has adjustable heat output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Trojan Technologies
    Inventors: Jim Fraser, Michael Sasges
  • Patent number: 8329044
    Abstract: A method of and apparatus for treating liquids flowing in a thin film around a source of wave energy to directly expose the liquid to the wave energy, preferably generated in whole or part by an electrical arc between carbon electrodes. In addition to the wave energy generated by the electrical arc, energy generated by cavitation of the flowing liquid may be used in treating the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Foret Plasma Labs, LLC
    Inventor: Todd Foret
  • Patent number: 8324595
    Abstract: Bacteria in water 9 exposed outdoors are effectively killed with ultraviolet (UV) light by suppressing post-treatment increase in the bacteria population due to photoreactivation. The apparatus shines UV light on the water 9 to kill bacteria and has UV light emitting diodes (LEDs) 1 that emit UVA light with a primary emission peak of 320 nm-400 nm. The antibacterial action of the UVA light emitted by the UV LEDs 1 prevents proliferation of bacteria in the disinfected water 9 due to photoreactivation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: The University of Tokushima
    Inventors: Akira Takahashi, Yohsuke Kinouchi, Masatake Akutagawa
  • Publication number: 20120267322
    Abstract: A system for plasma treatment of a liquid and corresponding uses thereof, the system comprising a chamber having a liquid input conduit and a liquid output conduit, a source of electromagnetic radiation of wavelength ? coupled to the chamber by a waveguide of appropriate width to provide only fundamental mode of the electromagnetic radiation, a focusing means positioned between the waveguide and the chamber for transmissively focusing the electromagnetic radiation incident thereon to a location within the chamber remote from walls of chamber for creating a plasma at the location, characterized in that the plasma is formed entirely within the liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2010
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Applicant: Ramot At Tel-Aviv University Ltd.
    Inventors: Reuven Lev Boxman, Vladimir Dikhtiar, Olga Dikhtyar, Nahum Parkansky
  • Patent number: 8282880
    Abstract: A bottle, a system and a method sterilize a liquid. The bottle has an interior to hold the liquid and an ultraviolet light emitting lamp that extends into the interior. A cord may be attached to the bottle so that pulling the cord may power the ultraviolet light emitting lamp and/or charge a battery used to power the ultraviolet light emitting lamp. The bottle may have a status light that indicates that the ultraviolet light emitting lamp may have an amount of power equal to or greater than a threshold value, such as, for example, an amount of power necessary for the ultraviolet light emitting lamp to operate for ninety seconds. The bottle may have a removable lid located opposite to the ultraviolet light emitting lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Neverest Travel Solutions
    Inventor: Eric James
  • Publication number: 20120234772
    Abstract: A micro bubble generating system includes a shell having a well for retaining a first liquid to immerse an object. A micro bubble apparatus is provide to the shell for providing a pressurized mixture of a second liquid and a dissolved gas into the well so as to create a plurality of micro bubbles within the first liquid for engaging the object. One method of using micro bubbles includes providing a fluid mixture, including a saturated gas, to a fluid chamber connected a fitting; and producing a plurality of micro bubbles into a fluid. Another method of using micro bubbles includes providing a fluid mixture, including a saturated gas, into an air entrapment chamber; and producing a plurality of micro bubbles into a fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: JASON INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Cunningham, Eric Eugene Jackson, Remo C. Jacuzzi
  • Publication number: 20120228235
    Abstract: The present invention describes a method and system for purifying water. The method includes filtering water in one or more filtering units. A filtering unit is configured within a tank of one or more tanks that collects the filtered water. The filtered water is then re-filtered by one or more filter turbines to obtain re-filtered water. The re-filtered water is then purified by one or more treatment units. A treatment unit is connected to a filter turbine. In an embodiment of the invention, the water purified may be a ballast water present in a water vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2010
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Inventor: Virendra J. Mehta
  • Publication number: 20120217207
    Abstract: A water treatment system is provided. The system includes a container having a removably coupled cover. A conduit is coupled to the cover. At least one UV germicidal light bulb is coupled to the conduit, wherein the conduit and at least one UV germicidal light bulb cooperate to arranged the at least one UV germicidal light bulb to be within the container when the cover is coupled to the container. A funnel is coupled to the cover opposite the at least one UV germicidal bulb. A filter is coupled to the cover and fluidly coupled to the funnel, the filter arranged to be within the container when the cover is coupled to the container. At least one electrical generator is configured to couple with a bicycle frame, the at least one electrical generator being electrically coupled to provide electrical power to the at least one UV germicidal bulb.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2012
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Applicant: WESTERN NEW ENGLAND UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Micah C. Bowen, Joseph R. Conti, Amanda L. Fortus, Andrew M. Labrie, Robert T. Gettens, James C. McKeon, Glenn E. Vallee
  • Patent number: 8246839
    Abstract: The object of the invention is a double-walled chamber for the UV disinfection of liquids, preferably drinking water and/or waste water. It realizes a rectangular and/or square cross-sectional shape of the UV radiation chamber even at higher pressures, whereby the radiation chamber can moreover be provided with a thin-walled configuration and allows an optimal and close arrangement of UV radiators as compared with a round chamber. By applying the inventive idea, the known dead zones at the entrance are completely eliminated and an entrance turbulence is produced which runs simultaneously with the piston flow in the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Trojan Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Ueberall
  • Patent number: 8226831
    Abstract: A wearable or portable intermittently operable hydration system (10) includes a purification module (22, 50) that contains one or more solid state UV devices that are positioned in the path of hydrating fluid, or water, flow through the hydration system to a mouthpiece (18). The UV LEDs are instant on devices with essentially no ramp-up required, and a sensor (20) or the opening of a push-pull valve (53) controls the turning on of the UV LEDs. The fluid flow path may run from a bladder (12) in a backpack (19) worn by the user, a sports bottle (54) worn by or carried by the user or may be through a water filtration system that a user operates via a pump. The power for the purification module may come from batteries, solar cells, fuel cells, power converted from pumping or winding action or any combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Hydro-Photon, Inc.
    Inventor: Miles Maiden
  • Patent number: 8211317
    Abstract: Ballast water treatment apparatus and methods for preventing foreign aquatic invasive species form entering marine ecological zones by translocation in ship's ballast water. The apparatus includes a housing, a filter member, and UV water treatment chambers. Methods include use of a ship's fire hydrant system or ballast water discharge port for moving ballast water from the ship's ballast tanks into the apparatus for filtration and treatment. In-port service vessels and barges as well as dock-side service vehicles are equipped with the various treatment and filtration apparatus to provided in-port or dock-side ballast water treatment services. Related methods are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Inventors: Hap Nguyen, William Murray Fowler, Howard Roop, Harriet Rae Bruckman Roop, legal representative, Ronald Yoshio Nishida
  • Publication number: 20120152856
    Abstract: A bottle, a system and a method sterilize a liquid. The bottle has an interior to hold the liquid and an ultraviolet light emitting lamp that extends into the interior. A cord may be attached to the bottle so that pulling the cord may power the ultraviolet light emitting lamp and/or charge a battery used to power the ultraviolet light emitting lamp. The bottle may have a status light that indicates that the ultraviolet light emitting lamp may have an amount of power equal to or greater than a threshold value, such as, for example, an amount of power necessary for the ultraviolet light emitting lamp to operate for ninety seconds. The bottle may have a removable lid located opposite to the ultraviolet light emitting lamp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2012
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Inventor: Eric James
  • Patent number: 8202432
    Abstract: The wastewater treatment system includes a tank having first and second partition walls dividing the tank into first, second and third chambers. An inlet port is formed through the first chamber and an outlet port is formed through the third chamber. A first port is formed through the first partition wall for controlling fluid flow from the first chamber to the second chamber, and a second port is formed through the second partition wall for controlling fluid flow from the second chamber to the third chamber. Oils and sludge are removed from the wastewater in the first chamber. Anaerobic bacteria within the second chamber then removes organic material from the water. The water is stored in the third chamber is irradiated by germicidal ultraviolet light before discharge from the third chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: King Abdulaziz University
    Inventors: Abdullah Saeed Al-Ghamdi, Abdulrahaman S. Alghamdi
  • Publication number: 20120145649
    Abstract: A method for ultraviolet (UV) liquid disinfection is provided. The method includes flowing liquid to be disinfected through a dielectric conduit and disinfecting the liquid by directing UV-radiation into the liquid within the conduit such that the liquid to be disinfected serves as a flowing liquid wave guide for the UV-radiation using total internal reflection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2012
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Inventor: Zamir TRIBELSKY
  • Patent number: 8187461
    Abstract: A system and method for processing and reusing graywater. At least two vertical flow wetland units are provided, each of which comprises a container filled with at least one granular substrate and at least one species of a hygrophilous plant, and an outlet. At least one of the wetland units is set to an inactive state during a predetermined period of time such that influx of graywater to each of the inactive units is prevented, to regenerate each inactive wetland units. At least one of the wetland units is set to an active state to allow introduced graywater to be purified. Purified graywater is discharged from the outlet of each active unit to a sink. At least a portion of the purified graywater is recirculated to each active wetland units so that a portion of the purified graywater, when desired, is discharged to a domestic site for reuse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Inventor: Moshe Elazar Ernest
  • Patent number: 8177966
    Abstract: A liquid storage and dispensing device with a filter for removing minerals and a UV light source for killing pathogens existing in a liquid. A liquid is introduced into the device via the inlet. The liquid passes through the filter into a collector. The filtered liquid flows from the collector through a thru passage into a UV chamber. The UV light source emits UV rays through a UV transmissive wall into the interior portion of the UV chamber. Exposure to the UV light kills pathogens present in the filtered liquid. Substantially purified liquid can then be dispensed from an outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Mr. Chiaphua Industries Limited
    Inventor: Ka Shing Wu
  • Publication number: 20120067827
    Abstract: A method of and apparatus for treating liquids flowing in a thin film around a source of wave energy to directly expose the liquid to the wave energy, preferably generated in whole or part by an electrical arc between carbon electrodes. In addition to the wave energy generated by the electrical arc, energy generated by cavitation of the flowing liquid may be used in treating the liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2011
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Applicant: FORET PLASMA LABS, LLC
    Inventor: Todd Foret
  • Patent number: 8128820
    Abstract: A liquid storage and dispensing device with a filter for removing minerals and a UV light source for killing pathogens existing in a liquid. A liquid is introduced into the device via the inlet. The liquid passes through the filter into a collector. The filtered liquid flows from the collector through a passage into a UV chamber. The UV light source emits UV rays through a UV transmissive wall into the interior portion of the UV chamber. Exposure to the UV light kills pathogens present in the filtered liquid. Substantially purified liquid can then be dispensed from an outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Mr. Chiaphua Industries Limited
    Inventor: Ka Shing Wu
  • Patent number: 8123870
    Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosed technology comprise a handheld cleaning device that sanitizes an item to be cleaned by, in a single action, dispensing ozone and ultrasonic wave cavitations in an aqueous medium that contains the object to be cleaned. The handheld device comprises a dipping end, which further comprises an ozone generator, dispensing ozone from the dipping end, and an ultrasonic wave generator generating ultrasonic cavitation in an aqueous medium. The device is configured to be held on a holding end, with a side opposite the holding end configured for dipping into an aqueous medium (e.g., water, cleaning fluid, liquids, etc.) which is contained in a vessel. The vessel is a concave structure capable of holding such aqueous medium, such as a sink, a bowl, a basin, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Dyne Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Se Hyung Eum
  • Publication number: 20120037571
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for sanitizing consumable water using an ultraviolet light. The water is exposed to the ultraviolet light for a preselected duration of time and at a desired power level to achieve a desired level of sanitization.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2010
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Inventor: Perry D. Felix
  • Patent number: 8105494
    Abstract: A system for reducing or preventing the growth of organisms in the process water used to coat glass fibers with a formaldehyde-free binder composition. One or more biocides is added to the process water that mitigates the growth of microbes in the water. The biocides are added in an amount sufficient to minimize growth of organisms without adversely affecting the application of the binder composition to the glass fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Johns Manville
    Inventor: Michael William Miks
  • Patent number: 8101080
    Abstract: An advanced water treatment method processes a continuous flow of water in a sequence of stages including pre-filtering to remove solids, conditioning to adjust pH, blending with a recycled dense microalgae culture, and passing the resulting mixture through an enclosed, environmentally-controlled photobioreactor where nutrients, PCB's, trace metals and other pollutants and regulated compounds are taken up by the algae. The flow from the PBR is separated using cross-flow filtration to produce a treated water flow and a dense microalgae flow that is recycled to the blending stage upstream. Thus, whereas the algae is recycled, the water entering the system is treated by flowing sequentially through the stages of the system, without any recycling or repetition of treatment stages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: AlgEvolve, LLC
    Inventors: Terry S. Robinson, Kevin S. McGraw, Jared W. Sylvester, Jesse D. Weidow
  • Publication number: 20120012537
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a fluid recondition system includes a container for storing a fluid; a fluid reconditioning module including a microbe-reducing device; and a first and second conduits transporting fluid between the container and the fluid reconditioning module. In another embodiment, the fluid reconditioning module includes an electromagnetic energy emitting device such as a number of ultraviolet lamps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventor: Scott DeCoster
  • Patent number: 8088290
    Abstract: A method of and apparatus for treating liquids flowing in a thin film around a source of wave energy to directly expose the liquid to the wave energy, preferably generated in whole or part by an electrical arc between carbon electrodes. In addition to the wave energy generated by the electrical arc, energy generated by cavitation of the flowing liquid may be used in treating the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Foret Plasma Labs, LLC
    Inventor: Todd Foret
  • Patent number: 8088289
    Abstract: A method and device are presented for affecting at least one chemical or mechanical property of a target site (109). A stream of liquid towards a contact with the target site (109) is provided with a predetermined flow rate. Also provided is UV-radiation (103) having predetermined parameters in terms of power, wavelength, duty cycle and repetition rate. The UV-radiation (103) is directed within the stream of liquid (101) along a trajectory of the stream. The stream carrying the UV radiation is maintained in contact with the target site for a time period and under conditions sufficient for affecting the at least one chemical or mechanical property.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Atlantium Technologies Ltd.
    Inventor: Zamir Tribelsky
  • Patent number: 8080165
    Abstract: Methods and systems for establishing Taylor-Couette flow in a fluid are provided. Aspects of the disclosed methods and systems incorporate laminar Taylor-Couette flow in combination with a source of radiation to provide more uniform radiation exposure to the fluid and its components. Common problems of non-uniform radiation levels and concentration boundary layer effects in UV reactors are largely eliminated using the methods and devices provided herein. In an exemplary embodiment, the reactor of the present disclosure has a hollow outer cylinder or stator and a rotor positioned therein and smooth walls for both the outer wall of its rotor and the inner wall of the outer cylinder or stator in which the rotor is positioned, the space between which forming the annular fluid gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Georgia Tech Research Corporation
    Inventor: Larry Forney
  • Patent number: 8048231
    Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosed technology comprise a handheld cleaning device that sanitizes an item to be cleaned by, in a single action, dispensing ozone and ultrasonic wave cavitations in an aqueous medium that contains the object to be cleaned. The handheld device comprises a dipping end, which further comprises an ozone generator, dispensing ozone from the dipping end, and an ultrasonic wave generator generating ultrasonic cavitation in an aqueous medium. The device is configured to be held on a holding end, with a side opposite the holding end configured for dipping into an aqueous medium (e.g., water, cleaning fluid, liquids, etc.) which is contained in a vessel. The vessel is a concave structure capable of holding such aqueous medium, such as a sink, a bowl, a basin, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Dyne Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Se Hyung Eum
  • Publication number: 20110259832
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the treatment of a municipal and/or industrial wastewater with a view to combating the endocrine disrupting effect and/or the toxic effect and/or the genotoxic effect thereof and to remove the pathogenic microorganisms therefrom, comprising a step of oxidation via ozone and a step of disinfection via UV radiation with a wavelength between 185 and 350 nm, characterized in that said ozone oxidation step is carried out in a static mixer at a low dose of ozone below the ozone demand of said water. The ozone oxidation step is immediately followed by said UV-radiation disinfection step. The process comprises a step of controlling the dose of ozone used in the water during the oxidation step and includes the measurement of at least one parameter that is representative of the quality of the water. This said measurement is carried out on the water to be treated and/or on the water that has undergone the ozone oxidation step and before its UV-radiation disinfection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Applicant: VEOLIA WATER SOLUTIONS & TECHNOLOGIES SUPPORT
    Inventors: Luis Castillo Rivera, Cedric Feliers, Florencio Martin
  • Publication number: 20110226703
    Abstract: A method for sterilizing liquids, wherein quantities of liquid flowing through at least one reaction chamber are irradiated by at least one UV lamp and are removed after irradiation. The UV lamp continues to be operated for a period ?t1 after removal of the quantity of liquid. A liquid sterilization device comprising at least one UV lamp and at least one reaction chamber through which the liquid to be sterilized flows as well as a tap for removing quantities of liquid. A control and/or regulation device is connected to the tap and to the UV lamp and continues to operate the UV lamp for a period ?t1 once the tap is switched off.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2009
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Applicant: BRITA GMBH
    Inventors: Ron Kemmer, Berthold Conradt
  • Patent number: 8002993
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for filtering a fluid is presented. In one embodiment, the apparatus converts contaminated water into water having a lower turbidity and bacterial contamination level than the contaminated water. The apparatus includes a settling unit for at least partially settling a portion of the water; a filter unit having a filtration media; wherein the filtration media comprises sand, anthracite coal, burnt rice husks, diatomaceous earth, gravel, pumice gravel, or combinations thereof; a sanitation unit; wherein the sanitation unit is an ultraviolet disinfection unit; a backwash unit; wherein the settling unit is in fluid communications with the filter unit and the backwash unit, the backwash unit is in fluid communications with the filter unit, and the filter unit is in fluid communications with the sanitation unit; and wherein at least a portion of the settling unit is elevated above the filter unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Inventors: Maximilian Gold, Evan A. Thomas
  • Publication number: 20110196814
    Abstract: Ballast water treatment apparatus and methods for preventing foreign aquatic invasive species form entering marine ecological zones by translocation in ship's ballast water. The apparatus includes a housing, a filter member, and UV water treatment chambers. Methods include use of a ship's fire hydrant system or ballast water discharge port for moving ballast water from the ship's ballast tanks into the apparatus for filtration and treatment. In-port service vessels and barges as well as dock-side service vehicles are equipped with the various treatment and filtration apparatus to provided in-port or dock-side ballast water treatment services. Related methods are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Applicant: MARENCO Technology Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Hap Nguyen, William Murray Fowler, Howard Roop, Ronald Yoshio Nishida
  • Patent number: 7985342
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating a fluid using a wave energy uses a cyclone separator configured to create a flow of the fluid in a thin film along a vortex path from a first end to a second end of the cyclone separator, a first electrode and a second electrode that are at least partially disposed within the cyclone separator, spaced apart from one another, and axially aligned with one another along a central axis of the cyclone separator from the first end to the second end. The electrodes are used to create an open electrical arc to provide the wave energy directly exposing the fluid as the fluid flows along the vortex path in close proximity to and surrounding the electrical arc such that only a gas separates the fluid from the open electrical arc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Foret Plasma Labs, LLC
    Inventor: Todd Foret
  • Patent number: 7981297
    Abstract: A method for removing helminth egg and other suspended solids from a wastewater stream includes directing the wastewater to a ballasted flocculation system and adding a coagulation agent, flocculation agent and a ballast into the wastewater. Sludge is settled from the wastewater in a settling tank at a rate of at least 10 meters per hour. The method further includes removing helminth egg by filtering the effluent through a fine screen having a mesh diameter of approximately 5 micrometers to approximately 25 micrometers. After passing through the fine screen, the filtered effluent has less than one helminth egg per liter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: OTV SA
    Inventors: Philippe Sauvignet, Claus Poulsen Dahl
  • Patent number: RE43332
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for disinfecting and purifying liquids and gasses comprising; a) passing said liquids or gasses through a reactor or a combination of reactors, having a truncated compounded concentrator geometry; and b) simultaneously delivering and concentrating diversified electromagnetic and acoustic energies into a specific predetermined inner space of said compounded concentrator reactor, forming a high energy density zone in said reactor or reactors over a predetermined period of time. The reactor according to the present invention is preferably a compounded parabolic concentrator or a compounded ellipsoidal concentrator. The electromagnetic energy delivered and concentrated into and inside the reactor can be of any range of the electromagnetic spectrum, such as ultra-violet, visible, infra-red, microwave etc., or combination thereof. The acoustic energy is of any suitable frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Atlantium Technologies Ltd.
    Inventors: Zamir Tribelsky, Michael Ende