Abstract: Systems and methods for separating a suspension of plasma and platelets from whole blood rotate a chamber about an axis to create within the chamber a low-G zone radially close to the axis and a high-G zone spaced radially further from the axis than the low-G zone. The systems and methods introduce whole blood into an inlet region of the chamber to initiate separation of red blood cells toward the high-G zone of the inlet region. This creates a strong flow of plasma that moves radially toward the low-G zone of the inlet region and elutes platelets into suspension with it. The systems and methods direct the radial flow of plasma and eluted platelets within the inlet region to a port in the inlet region for transport out of the chamber. The systems and methods also drag the interface into this radial plasma flow, eluting even the largest of platelets into suspension for collection.

Abstract: A steam iron has a reservoir from which water is supplied to a vaporization chamber. A plurality of cartridges are placed within a housing of the iron and at least one cartridge contains a product other than a demineralizing product for the purpose of treating water or cloth to be ironed. A ramp is provided for bringing the water of the reservoir into contact with the treatment product. A duct beneath the cartridge conveys the water charged with the treatment product to a vaporization chamber. A plurality of steam discharge orifices in communication with the vaporization chamber distributes the treated water on the cloth to be ironed. The plurality of cartridges are arranged such that at least one is arranged in parallel or in series, or a combination of these, along a path in which water flows as it travels from the reservoir to the vaporization chamber.

Abstract: A fuel filter assembly that provides a constant level of least restricted fuel flow through the fuel filter assembly during the useful life of the filter media by utilizing the least possible amount of filter media to provide the least possible pressure differential over the filter media while also providing a constant level of fuel additive by exposing an amount proportional to the filter media required for the least possible restricted fuel flow. The fuel filter assembly utilizes a vertically upward housing that houses a filter media and a fuel additive. The fuel level slowly rises in the housing as the filter media becomes obstructed with contaminants and as the fuel additive dissolves over the life of the filter media. The top portion of the housing is made of a transparent material so that the level of fuel level may be easily determined, thereby allowing for an accurate and simple assessment of the useful life of the filter media and the fuel additive.

Abstract: A method of removing olefinic impurity, such as perfluoroisobutylene, from fluoroperhalocarbon liquid, such as perfluorinated liquid, comprising the step of contacting the fluoroperhalocarbon liquid with a body of particles comprising particles selected from the group consisting of alumina, alkali metal oxide, alkali metal hydroxide, alkaline earth oxide, alkaline earth hydroxide, silicon oxide, tin oxide, zinc oxide, alkaline earth basic carbonate, and alkaline earth basic phosphate, transition metal oxide particles and mixtures thereof.

Abstract: In a water supply plant which cleans water taken in from such sources of intake water as lakes and marshes, dams, rivers and so on and delivers the water as city water, obstructions to water treatment is predicted and methods for preventing the obstruction are decided, by measuring kinds and quantity of plankton and comparing the measured data with rules representing relations among kinds and quality of plankton, obstructions to water treatment and counteractions to such obstructions stored in a rule base in advance.

Abstract: A filter apparatus comprises a plurality of rod-shaped filter elements disposed within a cylindrical vessel on at least one circular array concentric with the vessel axis, and extending parallel to the vessel axis, said filter elements being mounted in one of the vessel end walls and drained through this vessel end wall. Rotatably mounted in the opposite vessel end wall is a rotor comprising a plurality of agitator elements extending radially spaced from and parallel to the filter elements. The filter elements are provided with individual filtrate drains adapted to be individualy monitored to ascertain the quality of the filtrate. Each filtrate drain may be provided with a valve operable to deactivate the associated filter element in the case of damage thereto.

Abstract: A monitor for a beverage processing system that can sense a characteristic of the system, compare the characteristic to a threshold value to determine if a component of the system is not operating properly, and transmit the characteristic to a remote site. The monitor includes a controller coupled to a number of sensors that sense various system characteristics such as the water pressure and resistance at various locations of the system. The processor compares the outputs of the sensors with threshold values to determine if the various components are operating properly. The monitor also has a visual display unit which can output the various characteristic values along with processor generated messages that identify a component(s) that is not operating properly or needs preventive maintenance. The monitor transmits data via a modem to a computer located at a remote site. The computer can store and display the characteristics and other processor outputs.

Abstract: A system and method is disclosed for purifying water for drinking or bathing purposes employing an optical scanning device for detecting organisms in the water such as bacteria, algae, or viruses. The optical scanning device may be a video camera or may comprise a laser for irradiating the organisms and a photodetector for detecting radiation emanating from the organisms. A computer analyzes scanning signals generated by the scanning device and controls a device for neutralizing the organisms, such as a chemical injector or radiation source, in accordance with the scanning signals. The system may also be used to detect and neutralize disease producing organisms in a body fluid of a patient or in any fluid used for biological experimentation, testing, or production.

Abstract: A method of washing salvaged blood includes separating higher density blood components from lower density blood components within a rotating centrifuge bowl. The separated blood components are washed with wash solution to remove free hemoglobin (Hgb), anticoagulant, cellular debris and other undesirable elements from the blood components. The previously separated blood components are re-suspended by braking the rotation of the centrifuge bowl to release the free Hgb, and other undesirable elements trapped in the red blood cell layer. The higher density blood components are then re-separated from the lower density blood components within the centrifuge bowl. The re-separated blood components are again washed with wash solution to further remove free Hgb and other undesirable elements from the blood components.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a separatory funnel for preventing vortexing of liquid and identifying an interface between immiscible liquids, said separatory funnel having a baffle plate completely covering the space directly above the outlet opening of the separatory funnel and positioned such that at least a portion of the periphery of the baffle plate is placed directly against the interior wall of the separatory funnel chamber, forming at least one passage for the flow of liquid through the chamber. The present invention also relates to a method of separating a mixture of at least two immiscible liquids that reduces contamination and allows the mixture to form a distinguishable interface so that the liquids can be separated.

Abstract: The instant device serves to remove petroleum substances from pumped bilgewater in small boats. Bilgewater under pressure is pumped into a media housing chamber after having first passed into a filter housing chamber containing polyethylene beads that separate the petroleum substances from water. The purified water under pressure is pumped out of the media housing chamber. When petroleum product that is so separated builds up in concentration to a certain critical level, an electrical sensing component is activated serving to notify a person to open a petroleum product outline control valve on the media housing chamber and to close an outflow control valve on outflow piping attached to he media housing chamber in order to permit such petroleum substances to be pumped away into a collecting pan.

Abstract: A water treatment apparatus includes a primary column having an iodine disinfection layer and an activated carbon layer juxtapositionally provided in the primary column for killing bacteria and for absorbing odors in a feed water, and a secondary column adjacent to and connected to the primary column and having an ion exchange layer, and a mineralizing layer juxtapositionally installed in the secondary column for alternatively removing ions from the water, or for adding minerals into the treated water for health reason as manipulated by a switching valve device having a first valve and a second valve which are simultaneously operated for selectively opening the first valve for directing the water to be mineralized but closing the second valve for interrupting the water into the ion exchange resins if only a mineralized water is required.

Abstract: A sludge blanket-clarified liquid interface detector apparatus for a wastewater treatment process including a floating decanter assembly preferably includes a sludge detector light source and light sensor pair positioned in spaced apart relation on a sludge layer detector frame which is suspended in depending relation below the floating decanter assembly. The light sensor is interfaced to a process controller to which is also interfaced a decanter valve which flow controls the decant cycle of the process. As the decant cycle proceeds, the decanter assembly descends along with the falling level of liquid in the process reactor until the detector descends past the interface and into the sludge layer. The decrease in light transmission between the light source and sensor is signaled to the controller which causes the decanter valve to close to end the decant cycle to prevent the discharge of polluting sludge from the reactor.

Abstract: A separator for separating a solid and liquid is disclosed which includes a sensor system for detecting the level of solid that is separated from the liquid and accumulated in a settling tank. A movable locking element locks the separator to the settling tank, and is movable between an open and a closed position. The sensor system is attached to the movable locking element thereby providing protection for the sensing elements which include at least one light barrier.

Abstract: A method of partitioning a pre-selected phase of a sample of liquid having a plurality of phases of differing densities, a separation device and a tube containing the separation device. The sample of liquid is placed in a first chamber of a linear tube that is separated from a second chamber by a separation device. The separation device slidably engages the interior surface of the tube in an essentially fluid-tight manner and has an axial orifice on the longitudinal axis of the tube that is in fluid flow communication with a flow-restriction channel. The phases are ordered concentrically by rotating the tube around its longitudinal axis e.g. in an axial centrifuge. The volume of the first chamber is reduced by movement of the separation device within the tube, that phase of the liquid located axially within the first chamber flowing into the axial orifice and passing through the flow-restriction channel into the second chamber.

Abstract: A retrofittable filterless drain separator has an outer housing with a spherical section and an inner holding area including an inner spherical segment which is positioned and spaced apart from the spherical section of the outer housing. The separator includes vane in an inlet portion thereof which serves to direct passing liquids against an inner spherical centripetal separator so that the flow path of all liquids together with any entrained solids in the flow path is directed along a curved path which forces separation of particulate material from the liquid. A passage in the centripetal separator section allows liquid to pass through and out of the drain while retaining the solid or particulate matter in the centripetal separator. A component allowing access disposed in the spherical section of the outer housing permits easy access to the internal surface of the centripetal separator to facilitate the removal of any entrapped solid or particulate matter.

Abstract: A humidifier that can be used on a forced air circulation system for injecting atomized liquid into the cold air portion of that forced air circulation system includes a neubilizer for atomizing water fed thereto. The humidifier can be used in conjunction with an air cooling system and includes a demineralizing filter for removing white dust before the water reaches the humidifier. The filter can take various forms and can include several elements. One form of the humidifier can be connected between a hot air plenum and a cold air plenum of the forced air circulation system whereby the pressure drop between these two plenums is used to move moisture entrained air into the cold air plenum.

Abstract: A process of and apparatus for determining when the effective bromine contained in a polybromide impregnated resin cartridge used in a water disinfection system is depleted. The bromine content of the supply water is measured. When the bromine content falls below a pre-determined level, a comparative circuit is actuated to initiate flow of the supply water through a bromine cartridge assembly. At the same time, a timing cycle is initiated. The bromine content is continuously monitored and if it does not rise above the pre-determined level during the life of the timing cycle then an signal is output to indicate that the bromine cartridge is depleted.

Abstract: The specification discloses a circuit for monitoring the status of an ultraviolet (UV) light bulb in a water treatment system. The circuit uses either transformers or zener diodes with opto-isolators to monitor the voltage across the bulb. A logic signal is emitted when abnormally high voltage is detected, for example, indicating that the bulb is burned out, broken, or missing. A logic signal also is emitted when abnormally low voltage is detected, for example, indicating that the starter circuit is short circuited or that power is interrupted.

Abstract: A method and materials for separating oil from water, using stacked disks to coalesce the oil, is disclosed. The method of coalescence allows configuration of systems which are compact, efficient, adaptable to modular configuration, and have a very high flow rate.

Abstract: A tube and method of partitioning a pre-selected phase of a sample of liquid having a plurality of phases of differing densities. The tube has a smaller diameter at one end. In use, a sample of liquid is passed through a first end of a linear tube and into a first chamber of said tube. The first chamber is located at the first end of the tube and is separated from a second chamber located at a second opposed end of the tube by a separation device. The separation device slidably engages the interior surface of the tube in an essentially fluid-tight manner and has a flow-restriction orifice therein to permit fluid flow communication between the first and second chambers under the influence of force. The phases are then ordered within the tube using e.g. axial centrifugation. The volume of the first chamber is reduced by movement of the separation device within the tube, such that one phase of the liquid in the first chamber flows through the flow-restriction orifice and into the second chamber.

Abstract: A process of and apparatus for determining when the effective bromine contained in a polybromide impregnated resin cartridge used in a water disinfection system is depleted. The bromine content of the supply water is measured. When the bromine content falls below a desired level, a comparative circuit is actuated to initiate flow of the supply water through a bromine cartridge assembly. At the same time, a timing cycle is initiated. The bromine content is continuously monitored and if it does not rise above the desired level during the life of the timing cycle then an signal is output to indicate that the bromine cartridge is depleted.

Abstract: A filter assembly (10) includes a hollow housing (12) having a length and first and second ends (14,16). A membrane (22) contained within and extending along the length of the housing (12) separates the housing (12) into first and second chambers (24,26). An inlet (32) is proximate to the first end (14) and is in fluid communication with the first chamber (24). An outlet (34) is proximate to the second end (16) and is in fluid communication with the second chamber (26) for allowing a flow of fluid from the second chamber (26). The membrane (22) is air permeable when dry and air impermeable when wet whereby a wetting fluid entering the first chamber (24) at the first end of the housing (12) forces air from the first and second chambers (24,26) along the length of the membrane (22) and out of the outlet (34) as the fluid wets the membrane (22) thereby de-airing the first and second chambers (24,26) from one end to the other end along the length of the membrane (22) on both sides thereof.

Abstract: A fluid incubation apparatus has a frame defining a chamber and is capable of floating or being suspended below the surface of the fluid to be cleaned.The frame defines a chamber having a top, bottom and sides, with at least one of the sides and/or top being light transmissive. The ends of the chamber are preferably open to provide for flow therethrough. Disposed intermediate between the ends of the chamber is a means for enhancing the growth of biocatalysts present in the fluid. This means is preferably a particulate matrix made of biologically inert material for enhancing the surface area available for growth of biocatalysts. The chamber can also be supplied with one or more pumps for pumping growth media (i.e. atmospheric air and/or oxygen, fluid, nutrients) into the fluid-filled chamber. These pumps can also enhance the flow of fluid through the chamber under stagnant fluid conditions. A pump carried on the frame can have an air intake above the water level when the frame is floating.

Abstract: A monitoring device (18, 19 or 21) for optically monitoring residual contamination of oil particles is arranged downstream of filter zone for filtering water (9) in order to block off, if necessary, a discharge line (7). Circulatory operation in which the liquid is recycled through the filter zone (9) is preferably first switched in on exceeding a threshold value for the residual contamination, in order to overcome any eventually occurring "apparent contamination", for example small air bubbles, there is also provided mechanisms for distinguishing between residual and apparent contamination.

Abstract: A system and method of separation of therapeutic components from blood. The system includes a dual member centrifuge and a disposable single use fluid transfer set. The set includes an elongated flexible separation chamber having an input port, a separated component output port and a residual fluid output port. The input port and the separated component output ports are located at opposite ends of the elongated separation chamber. The centrifuge includes a receiving chamber with a selectively formed annular slot therein. The separation chamber is positioned in the annularly shaped slot and rotated at a predetermined rotational velocity. Fluids such as whole blood flows through the separation chamber and are separated into various therapeutic components such as platelet rich plasma and residual concentrated red blood cells. Platelet rich plasma can be drawn off as the separated therapeutic component. An alternate two part transfer set provides for highly efficient platelet pheresis.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing solid matter from fluid systems which does not require system shutdown and minimizes the loss of system fluids. The invention first isolates the solid matter collection reservoir from the fluid system and then purges the reservoir for external disposal or recovery of the solid matter. The purging sequence is enhanced through the use of a venting system which prevents pressure differential buildup and also prevents the introduction of air into the separation device during the purging sequence. The entire process can be controlled manually or automatically through a control system.

Abstract: Systems transmit a control signal between a rotating element and a stationary element of a blood separation centrifuge. The systems employ a sensor mechanism carried by one of the rotating and stationary elements. The sensor mechanism senses an operating condition that is subject to change. The sensor mechanism generates a first output signal that varies according to changes in the sensed operating condition. A first data transfer component on the one element that carries the sensor mechanism emits energy to the other element without mechanical contact with the other element. The first data transfer mechanism modulates the emitted energy according to variations occurring in the intensity of the first output signal. A second data transfer component on the other element receives the modulated energy emitted by the first data transfer component.

Abstract: A system for monitoring the interface region between cellular constituents and plasma in a blood separation chamber employs a sensor mechanism for emitting upon the interface region energy that is absorbed by the cellular constituents. The sensor mechanism also detects the intensity of the energy that is not absorbed by the interface region to generate an unabsorbed intensity output signal. The system moves the interface region relative to the sensor mechanism during a prescribed time period. A first circuit measures variations in the unabsorbed intensity output signal over the prescribed time period and generates a time based output. A second circuit can derive the physical size of the interface region based upon the time based output.

Abstract: Apparatus for collecting, containing and separating a sample of blood. Disclosed is an apparatus for separating a pre-selected phase of a sample contained in an enclosed chamber, wherein said apparatus can be used with a separating means which rotates the chamber about a longitudinal axis of the chamber. In addition, separating means in which such an enclosed chamber is rotated about a longitudinal axis is described.

Abstract: An adjustable cycle timer that controls on and off cycling of a livewell bait pump or similar device. The on time and off time of the cycle are each independently variable by adjusting the frequency of frequency generators, one generator (10) for on time and one generator (14) for off time in the cycle. The outputs of these frequency generators are gated to the clock input of a frequency divider (20), the output of which controls a relay driver (30) or similar device that switches the pump motor or other device to be controlled. When the output (22) of the frequency divider (20) changes state, a feedback switching circuit (29) blocks the output of one of the frequency generators, and gates the output of the other frequency generator to the input of the frequency divider (20). This allows the length of the on time segment of the cycle to be controlled by the frequency of one of the frequency generators, while the length of the off time segment of the cycle is controlled by the other frequency generator.

Abstract: An electric control for a water conditioning system includes a solenoid valve which controls water inlet into the system and which is controlled by a flow switch that senses product water flow from a water faucet or other outlet. The flow switch also energizes an indicator lamp for indicating processing of water. The flow switch also controls a second solenoid valve which allows water flow into the pressure or "squeeze" side of a bladder type product water storage tank. When product water flow occurs, the second solenoid valve opens to permit supply water to flow therein, providing additional pressure to the product water side of the storage tank. Accordingly, product water flow is effected from the storage tank to the product water outlet. When a predetermined low pressure is sensed, a pressure switch located on the product water side of the storage tank opens the first solenoid valve to supply water to the system for processing.

Abstract: A fuel filter assembly incorporates a modular drain bowl which may be removably mounted at the lower end of the disposable filter cartridge. An anchor insert is disposed interiorly at the lower portion of the cartridge sump for anchoring a fastener to attach the drain bowl. The insert also is specially configured to form outlet passages which facilitate the flow of water from the sump to the drain bowl.

Abstract: The present invention comprises apparatus and a method of automatically controlling the permeability of filter beds. In particular, this invention directs itself to filter beds or tanks that are divided into a plurality of contiguous compartments or cells, each compartment containing a filtering media substrate, which substrate is cleansed or backwashed, periodically, when necessary, by a traveling bridge backwash mechanism. The duration and frequency of backwashing is automatically controlled to maintain a desired overall permeability and throughput performance of the filter bed. Permeability control is dynamic to maintain optimum performance under all conditions, i.e. changing in response to fluctuating filter bed hydraulic or solids loading rates.

Abstract: A water purifying apparatus has feeding device for feeding water under pressure; a bacteria culturing tank; and air supply device for feeding air to the bacteria culturing tank by inducing air by utilizing fluid energy of circulating water; and an air flow detector provided on an air suction duct of the air supply means. A filter provided upstream of the feeding means for feeding water under pressure has the capability of preventing moss from growing in a water tank and sterilizing water. An ultraviolet lamp for sterilizing the water in a water tank is provided in a circulating duct. A carrier for fixing bacteria which grows aerobic and anaerobic bacteria is composed of a basic mineral material.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for electronically treating water flowing through a water distribution system is disclosed which functions to inhibit the formation of scale deposits. The apparatus includes a fluid chamber connected into the water distribution system for isolating a quantity of water and an electrode in contact with the isolated water for imparting an electrical pulse train to the isolated water. The apparatus also includes a signal generation circuit for generating and regulating the pulse train and an error indicating circuit to verify proper operation of the system and to indicate the need for maintenance.

Abstract: The invention concerns a backwashable filter device, specially for domestic water conduits that includes an inlet for raw water, a raw water chamber connected to the inlet, an outlet for clean water, a clean water chamber connected to the outlet, a filter element and an outlet for backwash water. The filter element is arranged between the raw water chamber and the clean water chamber and features a partial area (B) that accommodates water flow only in backwash but not normal operation. A conduit channel connects the outlet for backwash water with the partial area (B). At least one separate conduit connection is provided from the clean water chamber to the partial area (B). A conduit area is present in the conduit connection and designed in a nozzle-like shape so that clean water can be conducted from the clean water chamber at increased velocity against the partial area (B).

Abstract: A method and device for collecting and evaluating an embryo contained in a fluid medium. The fluid containing the embryo is discharged into a receptacle and sequentially drained and filtered until the remaining fluid containing the embryo is located in the proximity of a transparent flat bottom wall. The receptacle includes sloped side walls to keep the embryo from sticking to the side walls. Vertically spaced filter meshes are provided on the side walls to allow sequential filtering and draining. The fluid is discharged through a tube directed away from the filter meshes to prevent the embryo from being lodged in the filter mesh. A light projection chamber can be provided to concentrate light on the flat bottom wall.

Abstract: A machining solution filtration apparatus for a machining device which includes: a filter, a filter medium which is arranged separately from the filter and supplied continuously; a unit for supplying a contaminated machining solution to the filter medium; a unit for generating a difference in pressure between the upper surface and lower surface of the filter medium; a unit for returning a machining solution filtered via the pressure difference to a filtered solution vessel; a unit for selecting the filter to allow the machining solution to be filtered only thereby for a predetermined period of time; a unit for detecting the presence/absence and/or remaining amount of the filter medium; and a unit for controlling the speed of supplying the filter medium.

Abstract: A fuel contamination detection system for use in testing the contamination level of a fuel sample, wherein the system is selectively operable in a first mode as a particulate detector and in a second mode as a free water detector. A filter support slide includes two apertures and is adapted to support different sizes of filter elements over the apertures. In the particulate detector mode, the slide carries a pair of filter elements through which a fuel sample has been passed, wherein one filter element bears particulates from the sample. A particulate detection circuit includes an incandescent light and a photocell, between which the slide is moved to introduce one filter element and then the other, whereby a differential reading of their respective opacities is obtained and displayed. In the free water detector mode, only one aperture of the slide is used to carry a chemically treated water filter pad.

Abstract: A system is provided for weighing and monitoring flow from multiple fluid sources into a flow system wherein incoming fluid is received in a weighing bag attached to a control system for monitoring the amount of fluid passed through the weighing bag and for preventing admission of air into the flow system. An alarm attached to the weighing bag warns when fluid in the weighing bag is approaching empty, so that the fluid in the weighing bag can be replenished from the fluid source before the weighing bag runs dry. If fluid in the weighing bag is not replenished, the system automatically shuts down.The fluid pump can be absolutely calibrated using the controlled admission of known amounts of fluid into the weighing bag so that the amount of fluid introduced into the flow system through the weighing bag can be calculated automatically.

Abstract: An improved fluid-strainer is provided which makes provision for improved methods of converting the same between motorized and manual modes. Included in the fluid strainer is a gear motor housing for facilitating the conversion as well as inspection and removal means. Also provision is made for flushing of the fluid strainer so as to avoid cycle restart.

Abstract: A blood collection reservoir and filter device includes a generally cylindrical housing and an internal filter medium with the filter medium being retained in spaced relationship from the side wall of the housing so that blood can pass through the filter in a non-traumatized manner and flow smoothly onto a dispersion plate for cascading delivery to the internal surface of the side wall of the housing where it can flow in a non-traumatic manner to an outlet in the bottom wall of the housing. The filter medium includes a defoaming filter layer and a particulate filter layer so that blood removed from a surgical wound can be defoamed and filtered within the device. The filter is elevated within the housing to provide a relatively large temporary storage area where blood can be retained in non-contact with the filter.

Abstract: A filter apparatus for filtering a plurality of liquid or gas fluid samples containing particles to be filtered, such as bacteria or cells. The apparatus includes a filter; a device for simultaneously and independently filtering fluid samples on the filter; and apparatus for force filtering the samples. The device for simultaneously and independently filtering fluid samples includes at least one gasket including a plurality of through perforations held clamped in a sealed manner against one face of the filter by appropriate clamps. The clamps have perforations located for being brought into alignment with the perforations through the gasket and for cooperating therewith to put an upstream face of the gasket into communication, via the filter, with a plurality of independent inlets for samples of fluid to be filtered, and to put a downstream face of the gasket into communication with a plurality of likewise independent outlets for the fluid samples.

Abstract: A fluid filter clogging display comprising a case of non-magnetic material divided into an upper housing, at atmospheric pressure, and a lower housing by an impermeable membrane, a piston movable in the lower housing and dividing the lower housing into a high chamber and a low chamber, the high chamber communicating with an upstream side of a filter and the lower chamber communicating with a downstream side of the filter, a magnet mounted on the piston and disposed in the high chamber, a magnetizable detector in the upper housing for sensing a position of the magnet, a return spring located in said low chamber biasing the piston towards the impermeable membrane and a helical spring made of a shape memory alloy (SMA) which is stiff above a specific temperature and compliant below such a temperature and mounted such that the SMA spring joins the magnet to the piston depending upon the temperature thereof.

Abstract: A multipart chromatography column connection having a two-part screwed union anchored on the head of a column body or on the thread of a metal column or a surrounding jacket is disclosed. The connection has an upper part and a lower part, a bushing, fixed therein, with a capillary and a sealing insert of soft plastic at the end. The upper part of the screwed union has a window in which a nut is arranged for free turning. The bushing has an external thread which meshes with the nut. The nut and bushing are made of a hard material. An adaptor, also made of hard material, is screwed to the lower end of the bushing, the capillary being held in sealing compression between the adaptor and the bushing. The sealing insert is screwed to the free end of the adaptor and the adaptor and sealing insert have mutually aligned bores, which are connected to the capillary, and which have sealing surfaces bearing against one another.

Abstract: A stirring device for facilitating dialysis includes a housing, an axle with a first end portion extending out of the housing and a second end portion extending into the housing, a sprocket connected to the second end portion of the axle, a motor unit provided inside the housing, a circular cam plate mounted eccentrically on and being rotatably driven by a driving shaft of the motor unit, and a cam follower having a curved edge provided with gear teeth which mesh with the sprocket. The cam follower is formed with a cam groove to receive the cam plate. Rotation of the cam plate inside the cam groove causes reciprocating left and right movement of the cam follower to bring about reciprocating clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of the sprocket and the axle. A dialysate chamber confines a receiving space to receive a volume of solvent. The dialysate chamber is provided on top of the housing and is formed with an axially extending tubular sleeve.

Abstract: A plastic oil filter assembly comprises a closure plate having a plurality of radial supporting fins disposed on the inside surface thereof, a filter member having a saw-toothed coupling for tightly engaging with the plurality of radial supporting fins of the closure plate through a multiple-slit rubber valve, and a transparent exterior enclosure. The plastic oil filter assembly is simple in construction, inexpensive to manufacture, durable in use, and permits easy checking of the contamination level in filters of the filter member. The plastic oil filter assembly can reduce waste by permitting recycling of the used plastic filter assembly as a raw material.

Abstract: An under-sink type water purifier with a water-tap portion connected to a purified-water outlet of the purifier having a sensor for sensing an object to issue a signal, and a solenoid valve for starting and stopping the discharge of purified water from the water-tap portion in response to the signal. The apparatus is characterized by a control circuit for opening and closing the valve in response to the signal. The circuit is provided with at least one of a first timer for opening the valve at every preset time for a short time, and a second timer for opening the valve for a short time to permit the water-tap portion to discharge the purified water therefrom when the purified water remains confined in the purifier for a predetermined period of time. These timers are selectively used in operation.

Abstract: This disclosure illustrates a replaceable filter assembly for fluids in which the filter has a shell formed from an injection molded threaded end and an integral blow molded closed end to form a unitary shell. A seal such as a flange is provided adjacent to the threaded end so that a pressure seal can be maintained. A filter medium is supported within the shell so as to direct fluid flow through it to remove contaminants. The shell can be formed from plastic materials such as polyester terephthalate (PET), polyether sulfone (PES), and polyether urethane (PEU). This construction enables an inexpensive filter assembly and, with transparent plastic materials, an indication of the contaminant removal activity within the filter.