Fluid Pressure Responsive Patents (Class 210/90)
  • Patent number: 7678235
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide systems and methods for water purification. The systems have a preheater, a degasser, an evaporation chamber, a demister, and a control system, wherein the control system permits operation of the purification system through repeated cycles without requiring user intervention or cleaning. The system is capable of removing, from a contaminated water sample, a plurality of contaminant types including: microbiological contaminants, radiological contaminants, metals, salts, volatile organics, and non-volatile organics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Sylvan Source, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Deep, Eugene Thiers, Douglas Michael Thom
  • Publication number: 20100059422
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a module for processing a fluid comprising a body of wound layers of a sheet material, said body having an inner and an outer peripheral surface, a first and a second end face and a passage extending along the winding axis of said body and in fluid communication with said inner peripheral surface, said sheet material having a plurality of openings formed therein, said openings forming at least three types of channels within the wound layers of sheet material of said body, said channels extending in a direction from the inner peripheral surface to the outer peripheral surface, a first type of channel(s) being open at one end at said outer peripheral surface of the body and closed at the other end located adjacent to said inner peripheral surface, a second type of channel(s) being open at one end at said inner peripheral surface of the body, in fluid communication with said passage and closed at the other end located adjacent to said outer peripheral surface, a third type of cha
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: PALL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Denis Hahn, John D. Miller, Wolfgang Diemer, Martin Zeiler, Klaus Feifel
  • Patent number: 7674386
    Abstract: A slurry filtration system and apparatus with peripheral elements for conditioning a slurry prior to entry into a pressure filter (32) and the control of fluid and liquid introductions into the filter (32) to produce a desired filter cake or filtrate. The system includes a controller (16) for controlling the operation of the peripheral treatment for the introduction of coagulants, flocculants and polymers to treat or condition a slurry introduced into the filter (32) and the control of additional peripheral equipment for treatment of the slurry with liquid clearing or cake forming gas, steam, or drying or conditioning gas within the filter chamber (40) for the production of both filtrate and filter cake from the filter (32) to a form desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: FLSmidth A/S
    Inventor: Steve C. Benesi
  • Publication number: 20100018911
    Abstract: The teachings presented herein provide a water distribution manifold assembly for distribution of water for mixed indoor and outdoor usage. The assembly finds direct application in water reclamation and conservation in that it allows for the use of runoff and gray water. The assembly integrates in-line filtration in a convenient, readily accessible way. In one or more embodiments, the assembly includes: a supply inlet and an associated check valve and pressure release valve; a filter unit connected to a second check valve; a pressure gauge; one or more outlets, each of which may be connected to a check valve; and a manifold or connecting pipe that interconnects the inlet, filter unit, and one or more outlets. The assembly also may include a controller, which in one or more embodiments provides control, monitoring, and communications for the assembly and/or associated water distribution systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2009
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventor: Thomas L. VanZeeland
  • Publication number: 20100006753
    Abstract: An apparatus, system and method for the continuous flow extraction, collection and analysis of small amounts of energetic substance/s and their reacted/unreacted residue/s in real time are provided. The apparatus includes an agitator that generates a particulate material from a surface. A vacuum gathers particulate material which is provided to a mixing module. The mixing module creates a supercritical matrix containing the particulate matter. A separator separates and removes waste in the supercritical matrix from the supercritical matrix. Concentrated particulate material from the supercritical matrix is provided to a mass spectrometer for analysis and detection of a target material in proximate real-time. In one embodiment, the separator provides the supercritical matrix to a tube arm. The tube arm is heated to reduce solvent in the supercritical matrix. A collector in the tube arm concentrates particulate material, which is volatilized by a laser.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2007
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Applicant: SWCE
    Inventor: Terrence K. Schroeder
  • Patent number: 7632411
    Abstract: A method is provided for detecting filter clogging which are able to keep track of the filter clogging with precision and in detail. At least one pressure selected from the group consisting of a pressure Pa in a blood inflow portion (32a), a pressure Pv in a blood outflow portion (32b), a pressure Pf1 in a filtrate inflow portion (32c), and a pressure Pf2 in a filtrate outflow portion (32d) is measured continuously, then a variation (pressure waveform) of the pressure is analyzed, a clogging of a filter (32) is detected using the analyzed result. Thereby a clogging of a filter is detected early. As a result, it is possible to prevent from developing of the filter clogging by controlling a dosage amount of anti-coagulant properly and changing a flow rate of blood. The variation of the pressure wave may be analyzed by subjecting the variable to Fast Fourier Transform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Kuroda, Yohsuke Kinouchi, Masatake Akutagawa, Toshiya Okahisa, Yoshiaki Ohnishi
  • Publication number: 20090289014
    Abstract: A device for separating components of a composition according to density. The device includes a rotatable chamber and a plurality of buoys. The rotatable chamber has an axis of rotation. The plurality of buoys are positioned within the rotatable chamber and about the axis of rotation. The buoys are radially movable between an expanded position in which the buoys are at a first location relative to the axis of rotation and a contracted position in which the buoys are at a second location relative to the axis of rotation. The first location is further from the axis of rotation than the second location is. The buoys are movable in response to force generated during rotation of the rotatable chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Applicant: Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventor: Jacy C. Hoeppner
  • Patent number: 7621407
    Abstract: A blood filter system used for the sequential filtering of blood while actively removing air bubbles and debris comprising a filter housing with unique conical, or cylindrical shape, a flared inlet port, a unique up and down blood flow path, a multi-stage sequential filter assembly, an active air purge assembly and a unique downspout assembly with outlet port. The filter housing is adapted so that blood passes from the inlet port through the multi-stage sequential filter assembly to the outlet port following an up and down flow path, while its unique shape and angled filters effectively direct any air bubbles and debris up and out of the blood stream toward the active air purge assembly where they are removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Inventor: Daniel Patrick Herbst
  • Patent number: 7621978
    Abstract: A timer that starts a time cycle when a filter is placed into a housing is disclosed. The timer cycle will not reinitiate a new time cycle when the previously used filter is removed from the housing and reinserted into the housing. In one embodiment, the filter timer assembly includes a filter having a filter media surrounded by a filter frame, a housing for supporting the filter, a piercing post connected to the housing moveable between a first resting position and a second position in direct contact with the filter frame, and a timer connected to the piercing post. The piercing post punctures a portion of the filter frame to create an opening in the filter frame. The timer initiates a count when the piercing post is actuated to the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventor: Ronald C. Johansson
  • Publication number: 20090277833
    Abstract: A system, method and device are disclosed for bio-processing a feed stream providing a constant output by operating a continuous single-pass tangential-flow process. Embodiments are operated without large circulation pumps. Other embodiments use components which can be disposed after a single use. The system, method and device can also be used to provide constant output diafiltration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2009
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Applicant: SPF INNOVATIONS, LLC
    Inventors: Leon Mir, Gaston de los Reyes
  • Patent number: 7615146
    Abstract: A fluid filter assembly having a relief valve for visually indicating when a filter element may be replaced. The fluid filter assembly of the present invention provides a vertical, transparent housing having a fluid inlet for communicating a fluid into the housing and a fluid outlet for communicating fluid downstream of the housing. A filter element is disposed within the housing between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet for filtering the fluid. The relief valve can also be in the form of a more restrictive filter media 42.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: Davco Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Paul B. Smith, Kevin J. Rucinski, Alfred Tondreau, Ken Conti
  • Patent number: 7614279
    Abstract: A method for determining pore structure characteristics of a filtration cartridge includes the steps of placing a porometry test location isolating device in sealing contact with the filtration cartridge at a desired test location, increasing the porometer test gas pressure until the test gas flows through the cartridge at the test location, measuring the flow rate of the test gas through the test location as a function of differential pressure, reducing the test gas pressure to atmospheric pressure, wetting the test location with a wetting liquid, increasing the test gas pressure again until the test gas flows through the cartridge at the test location, measuring differential gas pressure and gas flow rates through the test location, and converting the measured gas flow rates and differential pressures into through pore throat diameters, largest through pore throat diameter, mean flow through pore throat diameter, pore distribution, and gas permeability of the cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: Porous Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Krishna M. Gupta, Akshaya Jena
  • Publication number: 20090272678
    Abstract: The invention relates to prediction of a rapid symptomatic drop in a subject's blood pressure, e.g. during a medical treatment or when operating an aircraft. To this aim, a pulse shape parameter (Pps) with respect to a peripheral body part (105) of the subject (P) is registered by means of a pulse oximetry instrument (110) adapted to detect light response variations in blood vessels. An initial pulse magnitude measure is calculated based on a pulse shape parameter (Pps) received at a first instance. During a measurement period subsequent to the first instance, a respective pulse magnitude measure is calculated based on each of a number of received pulse shape parameters (Pps). It is further investigated, for each pulse magnitude measure in the measurement period, whether or not the measure fulfils a decision criterion relative to the initial pulse magnitude measure. An alarm triggering signal (?) is generated if the decision criterion is found to be fulfilled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2007
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Applicant: GAMBRO LUNDIA AB
    Inventors: Leif Sornmo, Kristian Solem, Bo Olde
  • Patent number: 7611001
    Abstract: A plugged filter detection system includes a valve housed within a cavity defining an initial inlet for receiving fluid at an inlet pressure before fluid enters a filter, a final inlet for receiving fluid at an outlet pressure after the fluid exits the filter, and a switch port for directing fluid to a switch to activate the switch. The inlet pressure biases the valve in a first direction and the outlet pressure biases the valve in a second direction substantially opposing the first direction. The valve is movable from a first position to a second position to unblock the switch port, thereby allowing the switch to be activated when inlet pressure is greater than outlet pressure. A spring preferably biases the valve in the second direction, such that inlet pressure must be greater than outlet pressure by at least the spring constant to allow switch activation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles F. Long, Darren J. Weber
  • Publication number: 20090266750
    Abstract: Device for siphoning off fuel from motor vehicles to be scrapped, comprising a tank drilling device, a pump and two circuit valves, a storage tank and a pump nozzle, wherein the circuit valves are switchable between tank drilling device and pump such that the pump conveys fuel from the tank drilling device to the storage tank or from this to the pump nozzle, and wherein the device is provided with a compressed-air connection and the tank drilling device and the pump and the circuit valves are operable or switchable by compressed air.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Josef Dagn
  • Patent number: 7585416
    Abstract: The invention disclosed provides an apparatus and method for filtration and disinfection of ship's ballast water, such as sea water, based on hydrodynamic cavitation. The apparatus comprises a vortex diode with a tangential entry port and an axial outlet port with single or multiple bleeding holes. The disinfected water may be re-circulated through the system for additional disinfection or released from the tank into the surrounding waterways. The disinfection of seawater/ship's ballast water is achieved through filtration and hydrodynamic cavitation and the method does not involve use of any chemicals or any chemical reaction. The invented apparatus and method is simple, eco-friendly and can be fitted on to existing intake and discharge systems of any ship with minor modifications. It poses no risk to the health of the ship's crew unlike chemical methods and requires no special skill or additional manpower for its operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Council of Scientific & Industrial Research
    Inventors: Vivek Vinayak Ranade, Anirudh Bhalchandra, Arga Chandrashekar Anil, Subhash Shivram Sawant, Dandayudapani Ilangovan, Rajachandran Madhan, Krishnamurthy Pilarisetty Venkat
  • Publication number: 20090211985
    Abstract: Filtration systems and methods using a pump and pressure sensor are provided for improved efficiency in fluid filtration systems. A filtration system includes a pre-filter container joined to a post-filter container by a filter line having a filter. To reduce the time required for filtration a pump and pressure sensor are included in a filter inlet flow path. The pump also is used to provide air management in the system via pre-filtration evacuation of air from at least the filter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventors: Kartike Gulati, Grant S. Benjamin
  • Publication number: 20090178976
    Abstract: An apparatus for filtering liquid that includes a filter having an external surface; a rotatable shaft extending through the filter; and a movable member coupled to the rotatable shaft. The movable member is configured to impart a suction force at various locations across the external surface of the filter. The movable member has a trailing portion that extends further than the leading portion in the direction toward the filter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2007
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventor: Jay Stevens
  • Publication number: 20090166272
    Abstract: Apparatus (2) for filtering a fluid used in a machine, which apparatus (2) comprises a filter (4), a pump (6) for pumping the fluid through the filter (4), monitor means (8) for enabling remote monitoring of functioning of the apparatus (2) and the position of the apparatus (2), and a case (10) which contains the filter, the pump (6) and the monitor means (8), the case (10) comprising a body portion (12), a lid (14), and at least one handle (16), the lid enabling the case (10) to be opened and shut for permitting authorised access to the apparatus (2), and the handle (16) enabling the apparatus (2) to be carried by a person whereby the apparatus (2) is portable for facilitating transportation and installation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2007
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventor: Leslie Donald Selsdon
  • Publication number: 20090152179
    Abstract: This invention relates to a method for clearing a wetted hydrophobic filter, in which in a first step the air permeability of the hydrophobic filter is monitored and in which in a second step the hydrophobic filter is cleared by means of a connected air pump, if it is detected that the hydrophobic filter is clogged. Furthermore, the invention relates to an apparatus for performing this method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2006
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Applicant: FRESENIUS MEDICAL CARE DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
    Inventor: Pascal Kopperschmidt
  • Publication number: 20090139917
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for filtering particulates and volatiles from fluid systems. The apparatuses and methods include particulate filter and evaporator sections. The apparatuses and methods may furthermore include a heater disposed at least in part in the evaporator section having a ridge on a surface of the heater. The apparatuses and methods may furthermore include an evaporation tube positioned around the heater having a conically shaped outer surface and a heater safety sensor. The apparatuses and methods may also include an air inlet and an air outlet in the evaporator section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Applicant: NEXT GENERATION FILTRATION SYSTEMS, LP
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Geiger
  • Patent number: 7540958
    Abstract: Device for extracorporeal treatment of blood 1 intended to operate in a mode with a single needle 2, comprising: a treatment unit 3 having a first compartment 4 and a second compartment 5, which are separated by a semipermeable membrane 6, an extracorporeal blood circuit comprising a single needle 2, an intake line 7 in fluid communication with the first compartment 4 of the treatment unit 3, the first compartment 4, and a return line 8 in fluid communication with the first compartment 4 of the treatment unit 3, a purge line 9 at the outlet of the second compartment 5, a closure means (10, 11) acting on at least the intake line 7 and the return line 8 in order to generate the alternate sequence of blood intake and return, at least a first chamber 12 which is in fluid communication with the extracorporeal blood circuit and defines a first additional blood volume, the first chamber 12 having a variable total content; the first chamber 4 being rigid and including at least one wall capable of being moved, t
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: Gambro Lundia AB
    Inventors: Jacques Chevallet, Jean-Louis Romarie, Alain Frugier
  • Publication number: 20090134076
    Abstract: The invention relates to a screen changer in a system that processes flowable plastic, with an element that is movable between two positions, wherein the movable element is movable by a hydraulic cylinder, and with a motor that operates one of the hydraulic pumps, wherein a hydraulic supply line runs from the hydraulic pump to the hydraulic cylinder, wherein a first hydraulic pump is called the volume pump and a second is called the high-pressure pump, wherein the high-pressure pump has a lower volume capacity relative to the volume pump, but builds up a relatively higher pump pressure, with a non-return valve in the supply line, which optionally enables or interrupts the hydraulic connection between the volume pump and the hydraulic cylinder, and a high-pressure line, which pumps the hydraulic fluid from the high-pressure pump past the non-return valve to the hydraulic cylinder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Applicant: Kreyenborg Verwaltung und Beteiligungen GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Frank Hartmann
  • Patent number: 7531098
    Abstract: A system for automatically processing blood components is described. The system includes a console, which contains all motors, pumps, sensors, valves and control circuitry, and a unique disposable set that includes a cassette supporting a centrifuge with an improved design, pump interfaces with an improved design, component and solution bags, and tubing. Various processes are implemented using a specific disposable set for each process which allows automatic identification of the process to be performed the console.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Terumo Medical Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas C. Robinson, Thomas P. Robinson, Richard D'Elia, Paul Eibe, Thomas Sahines
  • Patent number: 7530228
    Abstract: An exemplary center housing for a turbocharger includes a lubricant control valve that includes a stem seated at least partially in the center housing where the stem has one or more orifices for controlling lubricant flow. The exemplary center housing also includes a lubricant filter positioned adjacent the stem of the lubricant control valve. The lubricant filter is optionally replaceable, for example, being accessible by removal of the stem from the center housing. Various other exemplary devices, assemblies, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Steve P. Martin, Christopher O Meade
  • Publication number: 20090107921
    Abstract: A chemical treatment system that injects one or more dosage chemical solutions into a process. Conditions of the process are sensed by sensors, communicated to a chemical treatment management system. The chemical treatment management system processes the process conditions and issues command signals to one or more chemical storage systems to provide a dosage of chemical to the process. The chemical storage systems each comprise a chemical storage tank, a level sensor for the tank, a controller and a pump. The controller uses the command signals for varying in real time the dosage of the chemical solution by varying the pump operation. The chemical treatment management system also uses additional data from the chemical storage systems, such as tank level, and from other sources to provide the command signals and alerts/alarms and other user information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventors: Yu-Gene T. Chen, Ron Dinello
  • Publication number: 20090101490
    Abstract: Devices and methods for water purification are provided. An improved demister (70) for removing liquid or other particles from steam is disclosed. The demister can have adjustable outlets. In other embodiments, a demister apparatus is placed, at least partially, inside a boiler apparatus (310). Additionally, a filter flow indicator (401) that provides an optical indication of the efficiency of a water filter is also provided. The filter flow indicator has a viewable side passage that connects the input and output sides of a filter unit. A weighted object, such as a ball (440), can move up and down the side passage in response to the pressure differential in the filter system. The user can determine the status of the filter by viewing the location of the weighted object in the side passage. Additionally, a device and method of adding various minerals back to purified water in order to improve the flavor of the water is described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2006
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Applicant: Sylvan Source, Inc.
    Inventor: Eugene Thiers
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20090071392
    Abstract: An indicator suitable for signaling restricted flow of a fluid through a filter mounted in a filter indicator includes a housing having an inner cavity. A diaphragm disposed within the housing separates the inner cavity into first and second chambers and deflects from a neutral position in response to applied pressures within the first and second chambers. A tab assembly opposite the diaphragm includes a spring-loaded flag moveable from a first position within the housing to a second position outside the housing. A pin operably coupled to the diaphragm holds the spring-loaded flag within the housing when the diaphragm is in the neutral position. In response to the diaphragm being deflected sufficiently from the neutral position to release the pin, the spring-loaded flag travels to the second position outside of the housing, thereby indicating a restrictive flow condition for the filter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Applicant: Engineered Products Company
    Inventors: Charles Henry Berry, III, H. Dianne Hammerand
  • Publication number: 20090050544
    Abstract: The invention relates to a dialyser having a blood-pressure measuring unit assigned to the dialyser, a pulse-wave-transit-time measuring system assigned to the dialyser and an evaluation unit, the evaluation unit being configured such that a signal representing the blood pressure can be derived from this pulse wave transit time; the parameters describing the relationship between the pulse wave transit time and the blood pressure can be determined from a plurality of measurements made by the blood-pressure measuring unit and simultaneous measurements made by the pulse-wave-transit-time measuring system, it being possible to determine at least two of these pairs of measured values at times when the absolute and/or the relative pulse-wave-transit-time deviation is above a threshold value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2007
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Inventor: Wei Zhang
  • Publication number: 20090032477
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention comprise reverse osmosis filters and systems comprising embedded radio frequency identification (RFID) tags for storing and retrieving data. The RFID tags can be preferably embedded under a filtration device's protective outer shell. Information can be easily stored onto and retrieved from the embedded RFID tags. The ability to easily store and retrieve data from the embedded RFID devices facilitates the creation of loading maps, monitoring, addition, and replacement of fluid filtration devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2008
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Applicant: HYDRANAUTICS
    Inventors: Norio Ikeyama, Mark Wilf
  • Publication number: 20090020486
    Abstract: A filter assembly comprising a filter head having inlet and outlet ports; a filter bowl attached to the filter head, wherein the filter bowl has a drain hole located at the bottom of the filter bowl for draining fluids; a filter element housed within the filter bowl, the filter element including a barrier of filtration media, a drain layer and at least one support tube; wherein a pressure differential exists across the filter element; a bottom cap that seals fluid within the filter element; a top cap having a non-planar flange portion, wherein the flange portion has a substantially curving, generally s-shaped cross-sectional profile, the non-planar flange sealingly received within the filter head such that the filter head is divided into inlet and outlet partitions; wherein the top cap directs fluid from the inlet port into the filter element, where the fluid flows through the barrier of filtration media and then out of the assembly through the outlet port; and, a float drain component attached to the base of
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2007
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventor: James W. Barnwell
  • Patent number: 7476209
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for collecting and treating blood component. An apparatus and methods for improvement of an extracorporeal photopheresis treatment is described. A cassette having flexible tubes inside its housing and on the bottom surface outside the cassette housing for ease of manufacturing is operated with a centrifuge bowl having an inlet and two outlets, pressure domes for measuring pressures in tubes, an improved irradiation plate, and a dual chamber bag in an extracorporeal photopheresis treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Therakos, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen Gara, Cynthia Star, Dennis Briggs, Michael Hutchinson, Tom Watters
  • Publication number: 20090008337
    Abstract: A system, a device and a method for maintaining water quality in a pool or similar water container for use by people which is characterized in that a pressure sensor is arranged to sense the pressure variations inside a main water container 1 and to provide a pressure variation signal to a control and processing unit 3. The control and processing unit is connected with a dispensing module and is adapted to generate and transfer control signals to said dispensing modules. The control signal depends on the detected pressure variation signal. The system for water treatment comprises also a water treatment circulation loop 3A-D at least one controllable chemical dispensing module 8A-D,9A-D. The circulation loop is adapted to pump water from the main water container 1, around the circulation loop 3A-D, and back into the main water container 1 via the dispensing module for dispensing a chemical treatment agent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2006
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Inventors: Jorn-Rudi Bjerkan, Morten Fredriksen
  • Patent number: 7470360
    Abstract: An indicator suitable for signaling restricted flow of a fluid through a filter mounted in a filter assembly includes a housing having an inner cavity. A diaphragm disposed within the housing separates the inner cavity into first and second chambers and deflects from a neutral position in response to applied pressures within the first and second chambers. A tab assembly opposite the diaphragm includes a spring-loaded flag moveable from a first position within the housing to a second position outside the housing. A pin operably coupled to the diaphragm holds the spring-loaded flag within the housing when the diaphragm is in the neutral position. In response to the diaphragm being deflected sufficiently from the neutral position to release the pin, the spring-loaded flag travels to the second position outside the housing, thereby indicating a restricted flow condition for the filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Engineered Products Company
    Inventors: Charles Henry Berry, III, H Dianne Hammerand
  • Patent number: 7470372
    Abstract: A device for the treatment of an influent with a porous media. The influent passes radially through the porous media and into an internal volume of the device. The treated influent then passes through an open check valve in the internal volume, and then to downstream equipment. During a backwash operation, a backwash fluid is passed into the internal volume of the device in a direction to close the check valve. The blocked path in the internal volume of the device causes the backwash fluid to pass radially outwardly into the porous media and fluidize the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Inventor: John D. Martin
  • Patent number: 7445705
    Abstract: A particle filter for a fuel cell coolant is disclosed. The particle filter includes a filter housing having an upstream end for receiving the coolant and a downstream end for discharging the coolant. A filter element is provided in the filter housing. A pressure gauge is operably connected to the upstream end of the filter housing for measuring and indicating a pressure of the coolant corresponding to a degree of blockage of the filter element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventors: Mukesh Kumar, Stephen Fan, George Shih
  • Patent number: 7442291
    Abstract: A system and method relating to in situ monitoring, analysis, and control of a lubricating material within a lubrication filter assembly is provided. A filter-sensor integration comprises a lubrication filter assembly and at least one lubrication sensing assembly, wherein the lubrication sensing assembly comprising at least one sensor array, and the sensor array comprises of at least one sensor. The lubrication filter assembly comprises a housing which defines a chamber, wherein lubricating material enters the chamber through a filter material. The lubrication sensing assembly is embedded into the chamber of the lubrication filter assembly, and the lubrication sensing device is positioned relative to the filter material so that the at least one sensor of the sensor array senses in situ different parameters of the lubricating fluid, analyzes measured parameters to determine health of the system, and generates a control signal to protect machinery and processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick M. Discenzo, Chung-Chiun Liu, Laurie A. Dudik
  • Patent number: 7442292
    Abstract: A display provides an indication of the remaining useful life of a filter element by providing a visible level of fluid in the display corresponding to the remaining useful life. The fluid level is adjusted by a valve responsive to a pressure differential across the filter element. An increasing pressure differential produces an increased fluid level in the display. The display may be provided with markings indicating that a particular fluid level in the display corresponds to the need to change a filter cartridge containing the filter element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Stanadyne Corporation
    Inventors: Leon P. Janik, David Ferreira, Michael J. Williams
  • Patent number: 7438800
    Abstract: An arrangement for filtering a hydraulic fluid having a bypass line connecting the feed channel to the discharge channel where the bypass line is opened by a pressure switching valve when a pressure change is caused by the contamination of the filter element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: Sauer-Danfoss Inc.
    Inventor: Reinhardt Thoms
  • Patent number: 7435347
    Abstract: A filter device has a filter housing part (10) with a filter element (12) and can be detachably connected to another filter housing part (20). A valve (24) clears a fluid path in the interconnected state of the housing parts (10, 20) with the filter element, and in the separated state of the housing parts (10, 20) from one another or without the filter element at least partially blocks it. Instead of known quarter-turn fastener and stopper solutions, a blocking is devised which can be economically implemented and which requires decidedly less installation space. A process for operation of a filter device is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: Hydac Filtertechnik GmbH.
    Inventor: Volkmar Klein
  • Publication number: 20080237142
    Abstract: Concentrator systems include a circulating fluid pathway passing through a pump, a filter, and a retentate container. An effluent outlet line communicates with the circulating fluid pathway through a filtering element within a body of the filter. The systems further include a control system. In some embodiments, the pump, filter, and retentate container may be secured within a portable container. Methods for concentrating a foreign substance within a fluid sample include establishing circulation of fluid through a fluid circulation path passing through a fluid pump, a filter body, and a retentate container. Fluid is caused to exit the fluid circulation path through a filtering element within the filter body, and at least one foreign substance is prevented from passing through the filtering element. A control system may be used to control at least one of a speed of the pump and a quantity of retentate within the retentate container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2007
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Applicant: Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC
    Inventors: Michael V. Carpenter, Lyle G. Roybal, Alan Lindquist, Vicente Gallardo
  • Publication number: 20080203025
    Abstract: An apparatus and methods for producing purified drinking water are disclosed. A hand pump is used in a closed system to generate pressure sufficient to pass the untreated water through a system of filters and a reverse osmosis membrane. The system preferably includes an ultrafiltration filter. The resulting water is substantially pure, being free of bacteria and having a significant amount of minerals and salts removed to make it safe for drinking. The system can produce enough potable water to supply the daily needs for a small village.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2007
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Applicant: 350 CAMBRIDGE PARTNERS, LLC
    Inventors: Michael H. Francisco, Subhash Mehra, Sumeet Mehra
  • Patent number: 7410587
    Abstract: A method and system are provided for high-precision separation of pharmaceutical or biotechnology liquids. The separation can be in accordance with direct flow filtration, tangential flow filtration or preparative chromatography. Movement of the pharmaceutical or biotechnology liquid within a flow path is controlled according to a selected pattern. Selected patterns include automatically and progressively increasing the flow rate within the unit, automatically and progressively increasing the pressure within the unit or initially proceeding according to a relatively high constant flow rate and switching to a relatively high constant pressure at a time when a given parameter is attained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: Scilog, Inc.
    Inventor: Karl G. Schick
  • Publication number: 20080185322
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for the elimination of substances from liquids, in particular from blood, comprising a primary circuit for the liquid to be treated, a filter which is integrated therein and at whose secondary side a secondary circuit is connected in which at least one adsorber is arranged, wherein respective pumps are provided in the primary and secondary circuits. In accordance with the invention, an expansion vessel in which liquid of the secondary circuit is discontinuously taken up and output again is integrated in the secondary circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2006
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: Horst Christmann
  • Patent number: 7402249
    Abstract: A blood purification method that purifies blood taken from a body by blood dialysis or by hemodiafiltration includes the step of changing an osmotic pressure of the blood to an increasing condition until a blood volume (BV level) attains a standard blood volume, in a former part of a blood purification process and the step of maintaining a standard blood volume and periodically changing the osmotic pressure of the blood in a later part of the blood purification process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: JMS Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Atsushi Ikeda
  • Patent number: 7396455
    Abstract: Brine container, at which a suction filter (24) is disposed, in which the brine container has a circulating filter system (28), which has a filter (34) and a pump (30), with which the brine (22) can be pumped through the circulating filter system (28), the filter (34) having an exchangeable filter element (38).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: Schröder Maschinebau KG
    Inventors: Eric Heidbreder, Christoph Umbach
  • Publication number: 20080135465
    Abstract: A load control system and apparatus to control the load to different elements is disclosed. The load control system is attached to both an air conditioner and a pool filter system. The pool filter system has a predetermined run time and is only operating when the air conditioner is not. When the air conditioner turns on, the load to the pool filter system is disconnected. When the air conditioner turns off, the load is returned to the pool filter which resumes running at the point in the run time where the pool filter had previously left off. The load control system provides a more efficient and better use of energy resources.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: SHAWN DAVIS
  • Publication number: 20080116122
    Abstract: The present invention relates to single-use chromatography devices and systems for use with a durable component for processing compounds such as protein compounds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2007
    Publication date: May 22, 2008
    Applicant: Genitope Corporation
    Inventors: Scott M. Wheelwright, Steven Schamow, Ed Louie, Andrew T. Zander