Fluid Pressure Responsive Patents (Class 210/90)
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Patent number: 5635074Abstract: A plurality of sensors sense a plurality of parameters including flow rate of a slurry being filtered sensed along a filtration medium and differential pressure across the medium which characterize the operation of a cross-flow filtration system having a moving, continuous filter medium. The plurality of sensors produce a plurality of signals representative of the plurality of parameters. A processor processes the plurality of signals to provide at least one control signal. The at least one control signal is applied to the filtration system to control at least one parameter thereof. As a result, a desired operating condition or a desired performance criterion is automatically maintained during operation of the filtration system.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 1995Date of Patent: June 3, 1997Assignee: Motorola, Inc.Inventors: Michael K. Stenstrom, Bruce E. Stuckman, Cary D. Perttunen
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Patent number: 5632902Abstract: Filtering apparatus including two or more passages acting in parallel, each having an extended filter which passes through inlet and outlet ports preferably sealed by substantially solidified plugs of the flowable substance such as polymer being filtered. The flow of such substance through an initially open passage can be terminated so as to permit filter advance under conditions of zero pressure drop whilst flow through the other passage or passages continues. In an additional or alternative mode, flow from a common inlet into a passage is terminated and a secondary outlet conduit in that passage is opened. This creates a counterflow caused by the pressure of substance from the other passage or passages which cleans the filter. Either or any passage or conduit is sealed or valved by a substantially solidified valve plug made of the flowable substance being filtered, said plug being extrudable subsequently when the passage or conduit requires opening to flow.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 1991Date of Patent: May 27, 1997Inventor: Peter G. Kalman
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Patent number: 5624551Abstract: A hemodialysis apparatus is supplied with dialysis fluid or a dialysis fluid component through a supply loop conduit 12. A shut-off device 22, such as a magnetic valve, is arranged between the apparatus and the supply conduit 12. A buffer volume is enclosed between the shut-off device and an additionally arranged shut-off device such as a non-return valve. During disinfection of the apparatus, in order to prevent disinfecting fluid from flowing back into the supply loop conduit and therewith an endangering other dialysis apparatus connected to the same supply loop conduit, in the event that the shut-off device 22 leaks, the buffer volume is pressurized to a defined pressure, which is preferably higher than the pressure in the surrounding conduit sections. This pressure is detected by a pressure sensor P. The signal generated by the pressure sensor P is monitored by a microprocessor 28.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 1994Date of Patent: April 29, 1997Assignee: Fresenius AGInventors: Manfred Baumann, Helmuth Ender
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Patent number: 5620593Abstract: An in-well system for simultaneously treating and extracting groundwater by injecting compressed gas through the groundwater in multiple successive stages as it is pumped out of a well. The process is usable for in-well aeration stripping of Volatile Organic Compounds from groundwater or for other applications in which it is desirable to pass compressed gas through groundwater to alter the physical, chemical, or radiological properties of the groundwater prior to its discharge from the well.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 1996Date of Patent: April 15, 1997Inventor: Joseph C. Stagner
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Patent number: 5620606Abstract: Method/system of adding solid particles to inhibit or prevent plugging in a reactor at conditions such that the temperature and pressure are at least in the vicinity of supercritical conditions for water. Particles may be added in conjunction with a pH-adjusting material, thereby inhibiting plugging in the reactor caused by addition of the pH-adjusting material. Reactor pressure may be reduced by flowing the stream through a static restriction device.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 1995Date of Patent: April 15, 1997Assignee: RPC Waste Management Services, Inc.Inventors: Roy N. McBrayer, Jr., Jimmy G. Swan, John S. Barber
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Patent number: 5620604Abstract: A dialysis system and method for removing toxic matter from the large intestine comprises an input tube, an output tube concentric with the input tube, both of which tubes are to be inserted in the large intestine an input pressure pump connected to deliver filtrate solution from an input container to the input tube, and an output suction pump connected to the output tube to remove filtrate solution. Pressure gauges control the input and output pumps so that an input pressure level of 75 mm Hg is not exceeded, and so that the output suction pump is disabled unless the input pressure level exceeds 45 mm Hg. A filtrate solution composition comprising a vasodilator of niacin, a high molecular weight protein in the form of casein, a mineral constituents and other components is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 1994Date of Patent: April 15, 1997Inventor: Andrew Stone
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Patent number: 5597601Abstract: Improved apparatus and process for filtering cooking oil of the type used in deep fat fryers such as are used in restaurants and bakeries. Full cooking temperature oil from the fryer vat is forcefully moved by a motorized pump through a canister holding a sintered metal filter which is preferably made of fused Stainless steel granules and which will filter-out solid particles down to about 0.5 microns in dimension from the oil. The hot oil passes through the filter before the filtered hot oil is returned to the fryer vat through a hand held flexible dispensing hose. The canister includes an openable lid to allow repeated removal, washing and re-installation of the highly durable and reuseable sintered stainless steel filter. One preferred embodiment in accordance with the invention is a portable unit mounted on wheels so it can be rolled from one fryer to another fryer and then to an out of the way storage area.Type: GrantFiled: February 29, 1996Date of Patent: January 28, 1997Assignee: Purifry, LLCInventor: Jerry A. Griffin
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Patent number: 5595656Abstract: Disclosed is a device 10 for filtering agricultural water. At least one protruding part 44 is formed on the circumferential surface of a lower shell 20 in a manner that radially projects and axially extends; the inner surface of the protruding part 44 provides a particulate matter accommodating chamber 46; an exhaust port 38 is formed in the lower end of the lower shell 20, the exhaust port 38 being communicated with the particulate matter accommodating chamber 46; and a valve 40 is provided in the exhaust port 38.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 1995Date of Patent: January 21, 1997Inventor: Chang H. Yun
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Patent number: 5589077Abstract: A liquid filtering and supply system according to the present invention comprises, a main line to connect a liquid introducing part to a liquid supplying part, a filter disposed in said main line to filter said liquid, a first pressure detector disposed in said main line at an upstream side of said filter to detect a pressure of said liquid before said liquid is introduced to said filter, a second pressure detector disposed in said main line at a downstream side of said filter to detect a pressure of said liquid after said liquid passed out of said filter, a first circulating line for returning a liquid in said main line to the liquid introducing part, a pressure difference computing element to determine a pressure difference between the first pressure detector and said second pressure detector, a control valve disposed in the first circulating line, and a controlling part to adjust an opening of said control valve, based on a signal of the pressure difference transmitted from the pressure difference computinType: GrantFiled: November 16, 1994Date of Patent: December 31, 1996Assignee: Sumitomo Chemical Company, LimitedInventors: Yoji Matsuda, Masao Morikawa, Masaaki Toma
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Patent number: 5580460Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring the operability of components in a hemodialysis apparatus during dialysis treatment. The dialyzer is isolated from the dialyzing liquid circuit for a time interval during dialysis treatment. During the isolation time interval, the dialyzing liquid circuit pressure is measured and monitored to detect deviations from a mean dialyzate operating pressure. The isolation is repeated periodically, with the time period between isolation intervals dependent upon the ultrafiltration coefficient of the dialyzer. This method may be performed automatically by a microprocessor in the hemodialysis apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 1995Date of Patent: December 3, 1996Assignee: Fresenius AGInventor: Hans-Dietrich Polaschegg
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Patent number: 5578221Abstract: A fuel filter assembly employs a disposable filter cartridge disposed in a housing comprising a container and a cap. The cap comprises a cap member composed of elastomeric material, an externally projecting fuel outlet, and a centrally disposed axially extending conduit. A lower portion of the axial conduit is slidably received by an axial opening in a plate mounted on the top of the filter cartridge. The opening and conduit are dimensioned such that a gap between the opening and the conduit allows fluid flow through the plate. A spring biases the upper part of the cap member away from the filter cartridge. A fuel inlet in the container provides a path for the flow of fuel into the filter assembly. Spherical balls captured in the fuel inlet and fuel outlet act as check valves, preventing the flow out through the fuel inlet and in through the fuel outlet. The filter assembly is primed by pushing the cap member downwards, compressing the spring.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1994Date of Patent: November 26, 1996Assignee: Stanadyne Automotive Corp.Inventor: Leon P. Janik
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Patent number: 5575833Abstract: A refrigerant recycling system (10) has a compressor (12) and identical first and second drier/separators (18, 20). Refrigerant material to be reclaimed is drawn into an inlet (22) of the first drier/separator, in which lubricant is separated from refrigerant vapor. After the lubricant is removed, the refrigerant vapor is filtered as it passes through a screen (80), a bed of molecular sieve material (82), and a fibrous pad (84). After passing through the first drier/separator, the refrigerant enters the compressor in which clean lubricant material is introduced to enable the compressor to operate effectively. From the compressor, the refrigerant vapor and clean lubricant passes through the second drier/separator wherein the clean lubricant is removed and the refrigerant vapor is again filtered. The twice filtered vapor is then passed to a condenser (44) in which it is condensed to a liquid. The clean refrigerant liquid is delivered from the reclamation system cleansed of impurities.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 1994Date of Patent: November 19, 1996Assignee: Parker-Hannifin CorporationInventor: Gary E. Griffin
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Patent number: 5569373Abstract: A fluid filter which comprises a canister having an open end and a closed end, the canister sealing to an adapter body to prevent leakage between the canister and the adapter body, the adapter body having a plurality of angled fluid inlet ports extending through the adapter assembly body into the cavity formed by the canister and the adapter body assembly, a threaded fluid outlet port extending through the adapter body, a threaded ring adapter for adapting the outlet port to a variety of filter receptacles, a multistage wire mesh filter element having a weave which is designed to prevent fluid contaminants from passing through the filter element while inhibiting the contaminant particles from becoming lodged in the filter mesh, the fluid inlet ports in the adapter body being formed at an angle to create a tornado type turbine fluid motion within the canister to suspend contaminants which are blocked from passage through the screen in the fluid and allow such contaminants to settle in the canister out of the fType: GrantFiled: June 28, 1995Date of Patent: October 29, 1996Inventors: Gerald F. Smith, William J. Ellis
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Patent number: 5565094Abstract: An apparatus and method for removing free and emulsified water as well as solid contaminants from an oil/water mixture produced in lubricating the bearings of a steam turbine employs a singular, closed housing having a lowermost, filter-free gravity chamber, an uppermost filter element chamber, and a filter-free water collection chamber between the gravity chamber and the filter element chamber. The oil/water mixture introduced into the housing has its free water component removed in the gravity chamber and has its emulsified water and solid contaminant components removed by coalescence in the filter element chamber. Free water, emulsified water and solid contaminants are collected, monitored and selectively drained from the water collection chamber and gravity chamber.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 1994Date of Patent: October 15, 1996Assignee: Nelson Industries, Inc.Inventors: Roger L. Zoch, David A. Meier
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Patent number: 5552038Abstract: Apparatus for pressure drainage of organic sewage sludge, industrial sludge and special waste sludge of varying composition includes a fully automatic sludge conditioning unit for preparing a flocculating agent and a fully automatic sludge feeding unit for a pressure reactor which includes a press plunger reciprocating on filter candles between axial end plates. The press plunger cooperates with a riser pipe situated outside of each end plate and incorporating a motor-driven discharge valve. The riser pipe communicates with a screw conveyor which is mounted to the pressure reactor for further transport of filter cake to a container.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 1994Date of Patent: September 3, 1996Assignee: Muller Umwelttechnik GMBH & Co. KGInventors: Wolfgang Muller, Dirk Herzog
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Patent number: 5552039Abstract: A high pressure and high temperature reactor, especially operating under supercritical water conditions combined with corrosive atmosphere. The reactor comprises a reaction chamber and a pressure vessel, which surrounds the reaction chamber. It has high integrity since it has only one penetration in the pressure vessel, and its size is minimized due to induced turbulent flow of the ignited reaction mixture.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 1994Date of Patent: September 3, 1996Assignee: RPC Waste Management Services, Inc.Inventors: Roy N. McBrayer, Jr., James E. Deaton, James M. Eller
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Patent number: 5534145Abstract: A portable, manually-operated water filtration pump for purifying water. The pump includes an inexpensive, disposable filter cartridge which can be easily changed when the filter elements are no longer effective. The pump uses a lever to actuate a double-acting piston. The lever is collapsible to one side of the pump for compact storage. The filter cartridge is a tubular cylinder having an inner bore forming the pump cylinder. A cylindrical mechanical filter is concentric with and adjacent to the inner bore to filter out particulates larger than 0.3 microns. A fluidized granual activated carbon filter surrounds the mechanical filter to absorb halogen and halogen-related compounds such as herbicides and pesticides. The pump pumps filtered water into a bottle adaptor which will fit most standard water containers. A prefilter is provided to screen out large particulates from the pump to enhance the life of the filter elements.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 1994Date of Patent: July 9, 1996Assignee: SweetWater, Inc.Inventors: Sanford Platter, Jeffrey K. Aldred, Richard J. Kraemer
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Patent number: 5529685Abstract: The dialysis apparatus in accordance with the present invention is provided with main piping connecting a blood inlet and a blood outlet, and having disposed therealong a blood pump, a dialyzer, and a venous-side chamber, in that order from the blood inlet side; and with a supplementary fluid supply mechanism, which is connected between the blood inlet and the blood pump through the medium of a branch pipe branching from the main piping; this apparatus is furthermore provided with a first clamp provided between the blood inlet and the blood pump of the main piping, a second clamp provided between the venous-side chamber and the blood outlet, and a third clamp provided on the branch pipe. In addition, by means of this dialysis apparatus, it is possible to reliably and easily return blood within the main piping of the dialysis apparatus to the body of the patient after the completion of blood dialysis.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 1993Date of Patent: June 25, 1996Assignees: Senko Medical Instrument Mfg. Co., Ltd., San Ai Memorial ClinicInventors: Yasubumi Irie, Kenichi Kurano, Toshikatsu Suzuki, Hiroaki Ishizuka, Hirokazu Uehara, Shingo Ohwaki
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Patent number: 5505841Abstract: A novel system for removing contaminants from water utilizes a microfiltration membrane and an adsorbent particle suspension. In the preferred embodiment, the microfiltration membrane is a ceramic membrane and the adsorbent is powdered activated carbon. The adsorbent is added to the water to be decontaminated to form the suspension. The adsorbent particle suspension is recirculated from a recirculation reservoir through a tubular microfiltration membrane. Decontaminated water permeates from the membrane.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 1995Date of Patent: April 9, 1996Inventors: Massoud Pirbazari, Badri N. Badriyha
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Patent number: 5503735Abstract: A liquid purification system is disclosed. In this system water is pumped into a filter cartridge. A reverse osmosis filter membrane in the filter cartridge removes impurities from the water, but not all of the water passes through the membrane. Water passing through the membrane exits the filter cartridge through a first outlet port, and is sent to a storage tank. Water not passing through the filter membrane exits the filter cartridge through a second outlet port. This water then passes through a pressure relief valve. The pressure relief valve can be adjusted to vary the water pressure and flow rates in the system. Some of the water exiting the pressure relief valve passes through a flow restrictor valve and then to drain. The flow restrictor maintains a constant flow rate at variable pressures. In this system, the flow restrictor is operable to maintain the same flow rate through it to drain and through the first filter outlet port.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 1989Date of Patent: April 2, 1996Assignee: Water Factory SystemsInventors: Paul F. Vinas, Dave Spears, Gregg Herzog, Robert Slovak, Jack Slovak
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Patent number: 5501791Abstract: A filter head adapted for use with spin-on filters is shown. The filter head carries a spring load piston which is normally biased to close a filter bypass channel. A fluid pressure increase caused by a clogged filter causes the piston to move opening the bypass and at the same time opening a signal channel between a source of fluid pressure and a signal outlet.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 1994Date of Patent: March 26, 1996Assignee: Donaldson Company, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey J. Theisen, John F. Connelly
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Patent number: 5489378Abstract: A water pressure relief apparatus in a traveling water screen adapted to be mounted in a channel such that the traveling water screen filters water flowing through the channel. The channel includes an upstream portion and a downstream portion. The traveling water screen includes a baffle directing water flowing through the traveling water screen and having an upstream surface communicating with the upstream portion of the channel and a downstream surface communicating with the downstream portion of the channel. The baffle has an opening connecting the upstream surface to the downstream surface. The water pressure relief apparatus includes a relief valve adapted to be connected to the baffle. The relief valve has a valve member mounted for movement between an opened position allowing fluid flow through the opening and a closed position engaging the valve seat and sealing the opening against flow therethrough.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 1993Date of Patent: February 6, 1996Assignee: Envirex Inc.Inventors: Robert R. Cheesman, James C. VanRoo, Ronald L. Sinclair, James T. Heinen
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Patent number: 5487828Abstract: A filtration apparatus with exchangeable filters for hygienic filtration of contaminated fluids. A tubular filter housing (1) has a central bore (2) as a receiving chamber for a filter cartridge. O-shaped rings (5,6) are mounted at the ends and in the center of the wall of the receiving chamber, and these prevent fluid from leaking around the filter. The filter housing has a fluid entrance opening (7), and an exit (8). The filter cartridge has a filter element (11) and two end caps (13 and 14). The rear end cap (13) has an annular opening (16) which provides an open connection with a filter chamber (12) within the filter element. In an assembled state, the fluid entrance (7) is aligned with the annular opening (16) in the filter chamber. Contaminated fluid is drawn through entrance (7) and proceeds through the filter to fluid exit (8).Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 1994Date of Patent: January 30, 1996Inventor: Richard C. Goet
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Patent number: 5486286Abstract: A number of improvements relating to methods and apparatuses for kidney dialysis are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 1993Date of Patent: January 23, 1996Assignee: Althin Medical, Inc.Inventors: Bruce A. Peterson, Mark E. Connell, Robert A. Bedient, Raymond Elsen, Michael E. Hogard, Harley D. Johnson, Thomas D. Kelly, Jean M. Long, William G. Preston, Jr., Dalibor J. Smejtek
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Patent number: 5482619Abstract: A water filter includes a pressure switch in order to sense inlet water pressure of the water filter, a solenoid valve for controlling water inlet of the water filter, the solenoid valve is disposed after the pressure switch and is acted in response to the pressure switch. A central processing unit is coupled to the pressure switch and the solenoid valve for delaying action of the solenoid valve in response to the pressure switch. The pump is stopped when the pressure is actuated intermittently and continuously and when the pump runs over a predetermined time interval continuously.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 1994Date of Patent: January 9, 1996Inventor: Hong-Jien Chow
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Patent number: 5476592Abstract: A device and method for injecting a sterile pyrogen free fluid uses a main filter having first and second compartments separated by a porous membrane. The first compartment has an inlet connected to a source of fluid to be filtered, and the second compartment has an outlet connected to an injection line. A pump is provided for circulating the fluid through the main filter and into the injection line. A secondary filter is provided downstream of the main filter and, in combination with pressure sensors, is used to determine if a rupture exists in the main filter.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 1994Date of Patent: December 19, 1995Assignee: Hospal IndustrieInventor: Laurent Simard
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Patent number: 5474683Abstract: Peritoneal dialysis systems and methods move liquid using a pump chamber that is operated in response to pneumatic pressure variations applied by a pump actuator. The systems and methods periodically measure air pressures in the actuator and an associated reference air chamber and derive from these a measurement of liquid volume moved through the pump chamber. The systems and methods minimize derivation errors by compensating for temperature differences among the pump chamber; the pump actuator; and the reference chamber.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 1993Date of Patent: December 12, 1995Assignee: Deka Products Limited PartnershipInventors: Robert J. Bryant, Dean Kamen, Douglas E. Vincent
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Patent number: 5470483Abstract: A device and method are provided for controlling the balance of fluids during an extracorporeal blood treatment session, according to which treatment, a certain quantity of liquid is withdrawn from the blood which is compensated for by the injection of a substitute liquid into the extracorporeal circuit. A recirculation circuit is provided and pressure is monitored. A pressure deviation within the recirculation circuit reflects a change in the balance between the quantity of liquid withdrawn from the blood and the quantity of liquid injected into the blood, and injection and/or withdrawal rates are altered to obtain a desired balance. The device and method are especially applicable to haemofiltration, haemodiafiltration and plasmapheresis.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 1994Date of Patent: November 28, 1995Assignee: Hospal IndustrieInventors: Bernard Bene, Nicolas Goux
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Patent number: 5462677Abstract: A filter belt movement control and belt treatment means for a pressure filter apparatus. The movement control includes a marking means in or on the filter belt medium and a sensing means on the filter apparatus. The sensing means detecting the position of the marking means in or on the belt filter medium and adapted to signal a controller for control of the position of the belt filter medium within the apparatus. The treatment means including cleaning, bathing and coating means for treating the belt filter medium and vibratory means for operation with the treating means.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 1993Date of Patent: October 31, 1995Inventor: Steve C. Benesi
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Patent number: 5460715Abstract: In a process for filtering plasma by separating blood into blood cells and plasma by a primary filter and filtering the separated plasma by a secondary filter to remove macromolecules from the plasma as harmful components, the loss of plasma to be discarded from the system by a procedure for eliminating plugging of the secondary filter can be diminished by opening an inner chamber of the secondary filter to the atmosphere to thereby lower the internal pressure of the chamber every time increase of the pressure to an upper limit value due to an increasing plugging tendency of the secondary filter is detected, and washing the interior of the secondary filter from the inner and outer chamber sides after the internal pressure has lowered.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 1994Date of Patent: October 24, 1995Assignee: Otsuka Pharmaceutical Factory, Inc.Inventors: Akio Kawamura, Motoki Yonekawa, Eiji Sakashita, Hiroshi Kamogawa
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Patent number: 5458767Abstract: A filter element for a fuel filter includes an outer, coalescing filter media and an inner, water-absorbing filter media. The outer media normally filters or separates particles from the fuel system and coalesces water in the fuel. As the outer media degrades through use and water penetrates to the inner media, the inner media absorbs the water to act as a back-up for the outer filter media. As the inner media absorbs water, the inner media expands to restrict the fuel flow therethrough. At a predetermined pressure differential across the inner media, a by-pass device in the inner filter media opens or otherwise allows fluid from the outer filter media to bypass the inner filter media. Although the by-pass device provides a fluid path around the inner media, the outer media maintains its particle filtration efficiency of the fuel at a high level.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 1994Date of Patent: October 17, 1995Assignee: Parker-Hannifin CorporationInventor: Walter H. Stone
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Patent number: 5458766Abstract: A life indicator is so designed that an electric current flows to a light emitting diode utilizing a battery as a power source when two electrodes are electrically connected. The two electrodes are so installed as to be electrically connected by passing water through a water passage communicating with an objective equipment, and the discharge life of the battery is set equal to the service life of the equipment.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 1993Date of Patent: October 17, 1995Assignee: Yuasa CorporationInventors: Katuo Ehara, Tadashi Okutoh, Aya Nishino, Shigeru Sano
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Patent number: 5449465Abstract: The present invention provides a method of filtering a fluid comprising (a) passing a first portion of a contaminated fluid through a filtration system comprising a first filtration medium of a preselected surface area which removes contaminants from the first portion of the fluid, (b) simultaneously passing a second portion of the contaminated fluid through a monitoring system comprising a second filtration medium of a preselected surface area which removes contaminants from the second portion of the fluid, wherein the first and second filtration media are the same except that the surface area of the first filtration medium is greater than the surface area of the second filtration medium, and wherein the rate at which the second portion of the contaminated fluid passes through the second filtration medium per unit of surface area of the filtration medium is greater than the rate at which the first portion of the contaminated fluid passes through the first filtration medium per unit of surface area of the filType: GrantFiled: January 18, 1994Date of Patent: September 12, 1995Assignee: Pall CorporationInventor: Peter J. Degen
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Patent number: 5431811Abstract: A filtration device includes an ultrafilter having an inlet chamber, an outlet chamber, and an ultrafiltration membrane separating the inlet chamber from the outlet chamber. An inlet line flow connects the inlet chamber to a source of dialysis liquid. Pressure sensors determine pressure values on opposite sides of the membrane, and a controller calculates a transmembrane pressure therefrom and compares the calculated transmembrane pressure with a predetermined threshold value. If the threshold value is reached, the controller emits a threshold signal to either warn an operator or alternatively to automatically divert flow to bypass the ultrafilter.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 1993Date of Patent: July 11, 1995Assignee: Hospal AGInventors: Andrea Tusini, Luca Vinci
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Patent number: 5421997Abstract: A sleeve filter centrifuge comprises between the closed end wall of a centrifugal drum and a base portion movable relative to this end wall a flexible, extendible dividing wall, for example in the form of a bellows or a folded membrane. This dividing wall provides a seal between a displacing shaft bearing the base portion and the inner chamber of the centrifugal drum accommodating the suspension and prevents any exchange of substances, which, for example, impairs sterilization, between the process area of the centrifugal drum and the machine frame side of the sleeve filter centrifuge.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 1993Date of Patent: June 6, 1995Assignee: Heinkel Industriezentrifugen GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Hans Gerteis
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Patent number: 5417865Abstract: The invention concerns a method of detecting and removing bulges in continuous strips of material before they enter higher-pressure zones in a dewatering filter press. The method is characterized in that, when a bulge occurs, a sensor is deflected and a control signal generated. The invention also concerns a device for carrying out the method, the device being characterized in that it is fitted with a preferably pressure-tight sensor which is deflected when a bulge occurs in the strip of material being filtered and can be reset when the bulge disappears.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 1993Date of Patent: May 23, 1995Assignee: Andritz-Patenverwaltungs-Gesellschaft M.B.H.Inventors: Peter Scheucher, Giselher Stummer
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Patent number: 5389243Abstract: A filter system includes a fluid-tight housing with filter elements supported in said housing and dividing the interior of the housing into first and second chambers. A pump pumps a liquid under pressure into said first chamber so that the liquid flows from the first chamber through the filter elements into said second chamber. An energy store is located in the housing which stores energy each time the pump is turned on and pressurizes the first chamber. When the pump is turned off and relieves the pressure in the first chamber, the potential energy stored in the energy store is applied as kinetic energy for moving the filter elements and increasing the pressure in the second chamber to cause liquid backflow through the filter elements which deans and rejuvenates the filter elements.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 1992Date of Patent: February 14, 1995Inventor: Neil B. Kaplan
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Patent number: 5382355Abstract: A new and improved engine coolant filter for removing particulate matter such as scale and rust from an internal combustion engine cooling system, the engine coolant filter comprising a filter element wherethrough coolant fluid may be circulated, the filter element including a housing having an input aperture and an output aperture, the housing also having filter medium disposed between the input aperture and the output aperture wherethrough coolant fluid may flow, and a manifold installed in series with a pressurized coolant line, the manifold having an input port and an output port, the manifold being removedly connected to the filter element such that coolant fluid flowing into the input port is circulated through the filter medium then out the output port, the manifold also having an automatic clogged-filter bypass valve whereby an unacceptable pressure differential across the ports caused by clogged filter medium shunts the coolant fluid around the clogged filter medium, the manifold further having a visType: GrantFiled: January 4, 1994Date of Patent: January 17, 1995Inventor: Daniel A. Arlozynski
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Patent number: 5372709Abstract: A fluid control apparatus for use in separation and filtration having a removable sterilizable and disposable element which is engagable with a fixed element in the apparatus. When the two elements are engaged, the flow of fluid around a fluid circuit is controlled to optimize separation. The elements contain various conduits and inlet and outlet ports that function to deliver fluid to and from separation and filtration systems such as life support systems.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 1993Date of Patent: December 13, 1994Assignee: Bio-Flo LimitedInventor: Robert G. Hood
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Patent number: 5366630Abstract: The artificial kidney includes an exchanger having two compartments separated by a semipermeable membrane, the first compartment of which is connected to a circuit for conveying a flow of blood outside the body. A source of treatment liquid is provided, and a control unit selectively connects the source to either the inlet of the second compartment of the exchanger or to the blood circuit as a function of the transmembrane pressure. This kidney provides optimum purification treatment for patients suffering from temporary kidney failure.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 1992Date of Patent: November 22, 1994Assignee: Hospal IndustrieInventor: Jacques Chevallet
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Patent number: 5360556Abstract: An on-site wastewater treatment system distributes septic tank effluent over a particulate media filter bed through a distribution manifold at a sufficient volumetric flow rate relative to the cross-sectional area of the distribution conduits to inhibit undesirable biological growth in the conduits and in the filter by creating a scouring effect in the conduits. This effect prevents clogging of the conduits and maximizes the even distribution of effluent in the filter. A mesh fabric intercepts the downward flow of the effluent in the filter to further aid in the even distribution of effluent in the filter. Orifice shields also aid in such distribution by preventing clogging of orifices embedded in the filter media. A high pressure switch in the distribution manifold and a high water alarm in the filter pump basin indicate when required maintenance is necessary, and the switch controlling the high water alarm temporarily disables the septic tank pump as well.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 1992Date of Patent: November 1, 1994Assignee: Orenco Systems, Inc.Inventors: Harold L. Ball, Terry R. Bounds, Eric S. Ball, Jeffrey L. Ball
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Patent number: 5358635Abstract: A reverse osmosis water processing and storage system having a prefilter, reverse osmosis membrane assembly, and a storage volume contained within a first tank. The prefilter and reverse osmosis membrane assembly are located within a second tank which is in turn located within an expandable bladder which is received within the first tank. Processed water is stored in the volume provided between the second tank and the expandable bladder.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 1993Date of Patent: October 25, 1994Assignee: Ecowater Systems, Inc.Inventors: Marlin A. Frank, Kenneth J. Merchak
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Patent number: 5344568Abstract: A multipurpose hemofiltration system and method are disclosed for the removal of fluid and/or soluble waste from the blood of a patient. The system and method are equally applicable to adult, pediatric and neonatal patients. The system continuously monitors the weight of infusate in a first reservoir and drained fluid in a second reservoir and compares those weights to corresponding predetermined computed weights. When necessary, the pumping rates of the infusate, drained fluid and blood are adjusted in order to achieve a preselected amount of fluid removal from the patient's blood in a preselected time period. Application of this system and method provide repeatable and highly precise results.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 1993Date of Patent: September 6, 1994Assignee: Children's Hospital Medical CenterInventors: Yuli Kitaevich, Nat Hemasilpin, J. Gabriel Marchevsky, John J. Bissler, George Benzing, III, Paul T. McEnery
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Patent number: 5336396Abstract: A fuel management system for blending of an alternative fuel such as waste oil with a conventional fuel and the continuous filtration thereof before delivery to fuel injection system of a conventional diesel engine. The system attaches to the storage tanks of a heavy duty truck using a proportioning device for withdrawing of the fuels from their respective tanks before blending by use of an air operated diaphragm transfer pump. The blended fuel is continuously recirculated through at least one fiberglass filter with a device for metering the final flow to the injection system and the remainder to the storage tanks. The system can remove up to 99.5 percent of the heavy contaminants found in the diesel fuel and alternative fuels.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 1993Date of Patent: August 9, 1994Inventor: Michael C. Shetley
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Patent number: 5320755Abstract: When applying a method and an arrangement for purifying water, an inflow of contaminated water is converted to a pressure elevated flow which is divided in a purifying unit into a purified outflow and a contaminated outflow, which in turn is divided into a return flow and a reject flow. With the intention of providing a large return flow under high pressure for the purpose of rinsing clean the filter unit during operation, the return flow includes a first return flow (return conduit 24) which is recycled to the pressure-elevated flow (pressure conduit 16) and which is larger than the inflow, and further includes a second return flow which is pressure-restricted with respect to the first return flow, and the second return flow is returned to the inflow.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 1993Date of Patent: June 14, 1994Assignee: AB ElectroluxInventors: Peter Hagqvist, Per Fonser, Fredrik Dellby
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Patent number: 5320760Abstract: A method to determine differential filter pressure caused by filter pluggage in a high pressure liquid system operated by a computer-operated control valve without the need for a pressure sensor coupled to the filter by corerlating the percent the control valve is open with the differential pressure of the filter. A signal is provided when the percentage of time the control valve is open exceeds a predetermined time and the filter is replaced in response to the signal.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 1992Date of Patent: June 14, 1994Assignee: E. I. Du Pont de Nemours and CompanyInventors: Kenneth S. Freund, Elizabeth L. Frisbie, Robert E. Wojcik
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Patent number: 5277092Abstract: A sheet cutting apparatus comprising a sheet feeding table, a cutting table and a sheet take-up table. Air lines, filters in the lines and air pumps draw air from the cutting table to collect any dust, etc. The air passes through filters, then to the blowers and from the blowers air is directed outwardly to the sheet feeding table and take-up table which lifts the material from the table. First and second pressure sensors are provided to detect the pressure to the blower and when a pressure difference exceeds a specific level an alarm is sounded to provide a warning. Then the filters can be cleaned.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1992Date of Patent: January 11, 1994Assignee: Shima Seiki Mfg., Ltd.Inventor: Shuji Kinta
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Patent number: 5277093Abstract: A sheet cutting apparatus comprising a sheet feeding table, a cutting table and a take-up table. A blower draws air from the cutting table through filters and also blows air to each of the sheet feeding tables and sheet take-up tables. Sensors are provided to detect air pressure and if a difference in air pressure of a specific level is detected an alarm is sounded. The blower is reversible so that air can be blown through the filters and switching means is provided to switch the reversed air away from the cutting table. Thus, the filters can be cleaned after a certain amount of dust, etc., has been collected.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1992Date of Patent: January 11, 1994Assignee: Shima Seiki Mfg., Ltd.Inventor: Shuji Kinta
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Patent number: 5266495Abstract: A method and apparatus for the controlled instrumentation processing of cells and other particles with a filter device measures a parameter of the flow through the filter device of a fluid carrying the particles. A measure of the change of fluid flow through the filter device yields desired information for quantizing the particles and for quantizing the obstruction of the filter device by the particles. The method and apparatus typically operate automatically. Cytological test methods and instruments can employ the invention to quantize and to collect cells.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 1992Date of Patent: November 30, 1993Assignee: Cytyc CorporationInventor: Stanley N. Lapidus
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Patent number: RE34828Abstract: An immobilized-interface solute-transfer unit for transferring solute from a feed solution to an extractant liquid comprises a fluid-tight housing and a porous membrane which divides the housing into a feed solution chamber and an extractant chamber. The housing has feed solution inlet and outlet ports which communicate with the feed solution chamber, and extractant inlet an outlet ports which communicate with the extractant chamber. The solute-transfer unit also includes a pressure difference controller for maintaining a difference between a liquid pressure of a feed solution in the feed solution chamber and a liquid pressure of an extractant in the extractant chamber substantially within a predetermined pressure range so that an interface between the feed solution and the extractant is substantially immobilized at the membrane.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 1991Date of Patent: January 17, 1995Assignee: The Trustees of the Stevens Institute of TechnologyInventor: Kamalesh Sirkar