Abstract: A photoacoustic flow measuring cell (1a, 1b) for measuring oil residues in water including a photoacoustic sensor principle based on converting optical energy into acoustic energy by absorption of light on oil molecules in water. A measuring cell (1a, 1b) having contamination-free infeed optics (9, 10, 11, 21) is produced by providing a free fall stage (3) for a contactless feed (12) of light into an analyte (4). A sound detector (16) is an externally mounted piezoelectric transducer (16) or an optical interferometer (23) which measures vibrations of a liquid surface (6) without contacting the same. The photoacoustic free fall measuring cell (1a, 1b) provides a high level of detection, well into the ppm concentration range, low susceptibility to faults and is suitable, in particular, for use in high pressure separating tanks (28) for conveyance of crude oil.

Abstract: A system and method for eluting one or more radioisotope processing elements, such as generators and/or concentration and purification components, with a gas over eluent delivery mechanism is disclosed. The system is adapted to an elution/concentration system using two such mechanisms, one for an initial elution of one or more generators, and a second for "re-elution" of concentrated and purified radioisotope contained in a concentration subsystem. The operation of such a dual mechanism system may also be completely or partially automated. The invention also discloses a concentration subsystem containing all single-use components needed for concentration and/or purification, as a single use, self sealed, cartridge that can safely store waste eluate for safe and simple disposal.

Abstract: A hand-held water purification system includes a pen-light sized ultraviolet lamp that is enclosed in a quartz cover and is powered by a battery and associated ballast circuitry. The battery and ballast circuitry are connected to the lamp by switches that are under the control of a liquid-level sensor. The sensor connects the battery, the ballast circuitry and the lamp once the sensor determines that the ultraviolet lamp is fully immersed in the water. If the container that holds the water is relatively large, the lamp and quartz cover end of the system are used to stir the water, to ensure that all of the water comes sufficiently close to the ultraviolet lamp.

Abstract: An ion beam absorbing apparatus for an ion implanter comprises an ion absorber for absorbing ions in an ion beam generated by the ion implanter, and support means for supporting the ion absorber and adapted for connection with the ion implanter, so that when so connected, the ion absorber can intercept the ion beam and absorb ions not intercepted by a target to be implanted with beam ions. The support means is further adapted for supporting the ion absorber in a plurality of different positions which can be selected so that respective different parts of the ion absorber intercept the ion beam.

Abstract: This invention relates to apparatus and methods for the disinfection of fluids and, in particular, to the disinfection of industrial fluids with ultraviolet radiation. These fluids are typically used in manufacturing as coolants in both long and short assembly lines. They commonly accumulate contaminants from multiple and diverse sources including oil and microorganisms. Fluids can be disinfected by establishing a fluid flow rate sufficient to prevent occlusion of the walls of the ultraviolet transmissible portion by contaminants. Fluids may be so heavily contaminated so as to require removal of at least a minimum percentage of contaminants (MPC) prior to irradiation. Such fluids may be processed to remove the minimum percentage of contaminants according to the equation: MPC=102-(23.45.times.lnV).

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for using ultrasonic energy in conjunction with an ultraviolet water sterilization system. An ultrasonic transducer assembly is placed in or around one end of the sterilization chamber for producing the ultrasonic energy. Ultrasonic vibrations are then applied automatically on a regular and intermittent basis to clean the components within the sterilization chamber and disrupt the chemical and physical action which causes scaling due to dissolved minerals and organic materials in the water. The ultrasonic vibrations cause a preventative cleaning action by the streaming and stirring of the water. Actual cleaning action is also created by cavitation and sweeping actions. The sweeping action is accomplished by frequency modulation which, by creating varying hot and cold spots within the sterilization chamber, allows for a uniform cleaning of a quartz sleeve encasing a UV lamp within the sterilization chamber. Ultrasonic vibrations also create a germicidal action.

Abstract: Improved apparatus and methods for forming a layer of material over a surface of a previously-formed cross-section of a three-dimensional object in anticipation of forming a next cross-section of the object out of the layer. A volume of material, including at least some excess material, is placed over the surface, and the excess material is swept off by placing the excess material in the predetermined path of a sweeping member, the path being substantially in a plane spaced from a working surface of material. The member may be directed to sweep the excess material away through a successive number of sweeps, which may vary for each cross-section, at least a velocity which may vary for each sweep. Additionally, the clearance between the member and the surface of the previous cross-section may vary for each sweep. A "winged" member is also provided, comprising two legs extending from a base, and a "Trident" embodiment is also provided, comprising three legs extending from a base.

Abstract: An environmental cabinet is described for simulating the effects of extended outdoor weathering on a sample material, the outdoor weathering effects including subjecting the sample material to cycles of at least the application of a corrosive solution and exposure to electromagnetic radiation. The cabinet comprises a chamber (11) for containing a sample material to be tested and a source (55) of electromagnetic radiation for subjecting the sample material within the chamber to cycles of radiation. Spray device (19) provides a cyclic spray of a corrosive solution to be deposited on the sample material within the chamber. Control unit subjects the sample material within the chamber to electromagnetic radiation and corrosive solution in a cyclic manner. The source (55) of electromagnetic radiation is disposed within a radiation transparent shield (57) passing through and sealed to the chamber.

Abstract: An apparatus for testing air having contaminants and radon progeny therein. The apparatus includes a sampling box having an inlet for receiving the air and an outlet for discharging the air. The sampling box includes a filter made of a plate of sintered stainless steel. The filter traps the contaminants, yet allows at least a portion of the radon progeny to pass therethrough.A method of testing air having contaminants and radon progeny therein. The method includes providing a testing apparatus that has a sampling box with an inlet for receiving the air and an outlet for discharging the air, and has a sintered stainless steel filter disposed within said sampling box; drawing air from a source into the sampling box using a vacuum pump; passing the air through the filter; monitoring the contaminants trapped by the filter; and providing an alarm when a selected level of contaminants is reached. The filter traps the contaminants, yet allows at least a portion of the radon progeny to pass therethrough.

Abstract: Apparatus for treating human blood by irradiation. Exposure of a human blood product sample can be optimized by displacing a contiguous, self-contained arrangement, such as a bag member, while radiation is being emitted towards the contiguous, self-contained arrangement, and by maintaining a substantially constant distance between the radiation source and the at least one blood product held in the contiguous, self-contained arrangement. Also proposed is an arrangement in which at least a portion of the radiation source is displaced while radiation is being emitted towards the contiguous, self-contained arrangements holding the blood products in question. Further, an arrangement for cooling the radiation source is contemplated.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for treating a biological fluid with light and for inactivating contaminants in biological fluid. The biological fluid is contacted with a light source providing a high intensity light to the biological fluid. The biological fluid may include a quantity of a photochemical agent that when activated by light is operable to cause inactivation of at least some of the contaminants.

Abstract: A hand-held water purification system includes a pen-light sized ultraviolet lamp that is enclosed in a quartz cover and is powered by a battery and associated ballast circuitry. The battery and ballast circuitry are connected to the lamp by switches that are under the control of a liquid-level sensor. The sensor connects the battery, the ballast circuitry and the lamp once the sensor determines that the ultraviolet lamp is fully immersed in the water. If the container that holds the water is relatively large, the lamp and quartz cover end of the system are used to stir the water, to ensure that all of the water comes sufficiently close to the ultraviolet lamp.

Abstract: Improved apparatus and methods for forming a layer of material over a surface of a previously-formed cross-section of a three-dimensional object in anticipation of forming a next cross-section of the object out of the layer. A volume of material, including at least some excess material, is placed over the surface, and the excess material is swept off by placing the excess material in the predetermined path of a sweeping member, the path being substantially in a plane spaced from a working surface of material. The member may be directed to sweep the excess material away through a successive number of sweeps, which may vary for each cross-section, at least a velocity which may vary for each sweep. Additionally, the clearance between the member and the surface of the previous cross-section may vary for each sweep. A "winged" member is also provided, comprising two legs extending from a base, and a "Trident" embodiment is also provided, comprising three legs extending from a base.

Abstract: A mass transfer system for decontaminating a contaminated liquid or gas stream. The system includes a container with a liquid inlet, a liquid outlet, a gas inlet and a gas outlet. The container is adapted to channel a liquid stream from the liquid inlet to the liquid outlet. The vessel is also adapted to channel a gas stream from the gas inlet to the gas outlet. At least one grid is mounted within the container and is positioned within the gas and liquid streams. The grid has a plurality of apertures formed therein which are adapted to disperse the gas flow as it passes through the grid. The dispersion of the gas flow generates a fluidized bed within the container. The grid is preferably parabolic in shape. A light assembly is mounted on the container and has a light emitting unit positioned so as to emit light into the container. The light irradiates at least one of the streams flowing therein.

Abstract: A continuous sample detector has a cell assembly with a spaced pair of sample cells. Each of these cells is mounted in a sample chamber and each is adapted to conduct a continuous sample flow. These sample cells are connected through a plurality of sample lines. The continuous sample detector also includes a sensor that is mounted and arranged proximate the cell assembly. Relative motion between the sensor and the cell assembly will enable the sensor to alternately detect radiation predominantly from a selected one of the cells. The sensor and the cells are positioned within the common housing to detect radiation with the sensor from predominantly a first one of the sample cells. The sample flow may at that time pass through the first one of the sample cells. The relative position of the sensor and the sample cells may then be changed within the common housing to detect radiation with the sensor from predominantly a second one of the sample cells.

Abstract: Turbulent mixing in a UV system is increased by positioning one or more ring-shaped devices, such as washers, at one or more predetermined locations on the exterior surface of each lamp unit in the system. The washers may have the same or different diameters. Turbulent mixing is also increased by retaining the upstream end of each lamp unit in a ring-shaped device, alone or in combination with washers positioned on each lamp unit exterior surface as described above.

Abstract: A device is provided for irradiating a fluid containing molecules subject to photolytic fission within a conduit, wherein the conduit includes a first opening and a longitudinal axis, the device comprising a valve fluidically connected to the first opening, the valve having a passageway leading to a second opening; a first optical member sealing the second opening; and an electromagnetic radiation (EMR) source positioned relative to the first optical member such that the EMR is directed, preferably along the longitudinal axis, through the first optical member and the passageway and into the conduit when the valve is an open position; wherein the first optical member is constructed from a material which is permeable to the EMR.

Abstract: A gas tube for passing plasma generating gases, having high UV transmittance and corrosion resistance against corrosive gases is disclosed. The tube is composed of a longitudinally extended throughhole and a thin circumferential wall and is provided with a means for radiating UV rays directed to an upstream portion thereof from outside. The wall is formed of a light-pervious alumina ceramic, and has a center-line mean roughness (R.sub.a) of not more than 1.0 .mu.m in a portion exposed to gas plasma.

Abstract: A system for generating three-dimensional objects by creating a cross-sectional pattern of the object to be formed at a selected surface of a fluid medium capable of altering its physical state in response to appropriate synergistic stimulation by impinging radiation, particle bombardment or chemical reaction, successive adjacent laminae, representing corresponding successive adjacent cross-sections of the object, being automatically formed and integrated together to provide a step-wise laminar buildup of the desired object, whereby a three-dimensional object is formed and drawn from a substantially planar surface of the fluid medium during the forming process.

Abstract: A device for the parallel processing of ions is provided. The device may be utilized for thin film deposition or ion implantation and may include the following: an ion source, ion capture and storage ion optics, mass selection ion optics, neutral trapping elements, extraction ion optics, beam neutralization mechanisms, and a substrate on which deposition and thin film growth occurs is provided. Ions are captured and stored within a closely packed array of parallel ion conducting channels. The ion conducting channels transport high current low energy ions from the ion source to irradiate the substrate target. During transport, ion species can be mass selected, merged with ions from multiple sources, and undergo gas phase charge exchange ion molecule reactions.

Abstract: A UV disinfector with a gravity driven feed water delivery system, and an air-suspended bare UV lamp. The disinfector is hydrodynamically optimized with a laminerizing, perforated baffle wall, beveled treatment chamber, and outlet weir.

Abstract: In an apparatus for the irradiation of body fluids by ultraviolet light in a containment for receiving the body fluids which is disposed in the radiation range of an ultraviolet light source, the containment includes baffle means arranged so as to subject the body fluids circulated through the containment to turbulence whereby the body fluid in the containment is uniformly exposed to the UV radiation.

Abstract: A method for disinfecting or sterilizing infectious waste is described in which infectious waste is introduced into a pressure chamber, the pressure chamber is evacuated, a fluid fed in so as to fill the pressure chamber with saturated steam, the infectious waste remains for a specified disinfection or sterilization period in the heated saturated steam and the pressure chamber is then aerated so as to remove the disinfected or sterilized waste. An apparatus for performing the method is also described, this apparatus comprising one or more pressure vessels (2) which each have at least one access means (3) and at least one infrared radiation source. The dimensions of these pressure vessels (2) are preferably not much greater than a plastic collecting container for the infectious waste.

Abstract: An annular throughflow photoreactor for oxidative photopurification includes an elongate radiation source surrounded by a transparent wall in the form of a spacer tube at a radial spacing of more than 3 cm, preferably in the range of more than 3 cm to 13 cm. The irradiance, i.e. the radiant flux per irradiated area is thereby reduced in comparison to a classic annular photoreactor. At unchanged irradiation power, this results in considerably increased quantum yields or extent of photoconversion in cases in which such conversion is dependent upon the square root of the irradiance, and thus enables enormous savings in radiation energy. Under such conditions, the photoconversion may be additionally increased by using low absorber concentrations and infeeding further absorber on the inside of the outer wall of the photoreactor as well as by working in the presence of gaseous oxygen at an oxygen pressure up to 3 bar and, preferentially, at pH 3.

Abstract: A driver or ballast for the ultraviolet bulb of a water treatment system. The driver includes a step-up transformer and a feedback oscillator connected between the secondary and the primary of the transformer. The secondary of the transformer also is selectably connected through one of two different capacitor compensators depending on water flow through the system. In a low intensity mode, the current and the power factor output of the driver are relatively low, preferably just enough to keep the bulb filaments energized. In a high intensity mode, the current and the power factor are relatively high to power the bulb at a relatively high efficiency. The driver operates at a relatively low DC voltage. A voltage converter selected as function of the local line voltage converts the AC line voltage to the necessary DC voltage.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a replacable cartridge for use in a photocatalytic fluid purification system. The cartridge is capable of modifying impurities in a fluid flowing through the cartridge in the presence of light. The cartridge includes a flexible, porous element having a semiconductor coating associated with it and a rigid support structure which supports the element. The cartridge may be used in a variety of fluid purification applications where photocatalysis has not heretofore been utilized.

Abstract: Cell, whose interior (3) is filled with liquid, whose radioactivity is measured by a scintillator or other detector install thereon. The invention consists of equipping the cell with rinsing means in order to wash the cell side wall (2) and the sealing or blanking plate (13) with respect to impurities deposited thereon and interfering with the measurement as a result of their natural radioactivity. Blowing means are provided above the free surface of the radioactive liquid in order to oppose its vaporization, which would produce other deposits.

Abstract: Apparatus for and related methods of forming three-dimensional objects out of a building material, which is normally solid, but which is flowable when heated. In one embodiment, a support material is used to fill in portions of layers which are not to be solidified as part of the object, thus providing support to otherwise unsupported portions of other layers. Advantageously, the support material is also normally solid and flowable when heated, and has a lower melting point than the building material enabling the support material to later be removed without damaging the object. In an alternative embodiment this support material can be used to build a support such as a web support, or the like, for supporting an object surface from a second surface.

Abstract: A solid three-dimensional article is formed from a liquid medium by initially coating a layer of the liquid medium on a fixedly mounted apertured support plate. An initial cross-section or profile of the article then is formed by solidifying the liquid medium, or at least a portion thereof, on the support plate. In another embodiment, each layer of the liquid medium is formed by dispensing the entire layer from above the fixed support plate. In a further embodiment, a device is disclosed for dispensing a liquid medium in layers of uniform thickness on the medium surface of a laser modeling machine, for solidification when subjected to prescribed energy. The dispenser comprises an elongated applicator or coating bar of rectangular, essentially solid construction, with a liquid medium reservoir and dispensing passageways located adjacent a dispensing side of the bar. A feed tube and traversing mechanism support rods are secured to an opposite side of the bar.

Abstract: An apparatus for the treatment of a fluid is provided which includes a separate housing and enclosure for containing at least one ballast and electrical means, respectively, to power and control the operation of a plurality of vertically arranged UV lamps that are immersed in a fluid to be treated. Each compartment serves as an individually isolated area for offering greatly enhanced accessibility, maintenance and maximum performance of the various components of an ultraviolet light purification apparatus in the environment intended for its operation and use.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for stereolithographically forming a three-dimensional object includes a vessel for holding a building material and a smoothing member for forming a uniform coating over a previously formed layer of the object. The smoothing member has a plurality of blades. The smoothing member is swept over a previously formed layer of the object, in at least two directions. Different clearances between the lower surface of the smoothing member and the upper surface of the previously formed layer are used to provide a uniform coating for a subsequent layer over the previously formed layer. The sweeping velocity of the smoothing member can be varied. Retractable needles are attached to the smoothing member for adjusting a blade gap between a lower surface of the smoothing member and the surface of the building material.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a novel method for preparing crosslinked biomaterial compositions for use in the augmentation of soft or hard tissue. In general, the method comprises mixing a biocompatible polymer, which is preferably collagen, with a sterile, dry crosslinking agent, which is preferably a synthetic hydrophilic polymer such as a functionally activated polyethylene glycol. Also provided are preferred processes for preparing sterile, dry crosslinking agents contained within syringes for use in the method of the invention. Methods for sterilization of the crosslinking agent include, but are not limited to, sterile filtration, aseptic processing, and e-beam or gamma irradiation. Methods for providing augmentation of soft or hard tissue using crosslinked biomaterial compositions prepared according to the method of the invention are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of determining physical and/or chemical properties in water samples containing suspended substances and/or particles, the physical and/or chemical properties being singly or jointly determined as amount of nitrate, iron, ammonium, phosphate, total nitrogen or total phosphorous; turbidity, chemical oxygen demand (COD) and/or biological oxygen demand (BOD).

Abstract: A method and apparatus (10) for killing microorganisms in a particle laden fluid medium (11) are disclosed. This method has the steps of providing a germicidal radiation for killing microorganisms (30) and a reflectors (40) for transferring and orienting of the germicidal radiation for killing microorganisms (30); providing a secondary flow (12) of a substantially particles free fluid; the secondary flow (12) is running along or flowing across the surface of the reflectors (40) and establishing a substantially particle free barrier environment maintaining clean the reflectors (40); orienting an emission of the germicidal radiation in a parallel array of beams (32), and passing the fluid medium (11) along a path aligned with the parallel array of beams (32). The apparatus arranged so that the maximum efficiency of use of germicidal energy is achieved, energy consumption for sterilization will decrease, reliability and period between maintenance will increase.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for automatically consolidating a filter or, more specifically, an apparatus for drawing a volume of gas through a plurality of sections of a filter, whereafter the sections are subsequently combined for the purpose of simultaneously interrogating the sections to detect the presence of a contaminant.

Abstract: For monitoring an environmental parameter such as the level of nuclear radiation, at distributed sites, bar coded sample collectors are deployed and their codes are read using a portable data entry unit that also records the time of deployment. The time and collector identity are cross referenced in memory in the portable unit. Similarly, when later recovering the collector for testing, the code is again read and the time of collection is stored as indexed to the sample collector, or to a further bar code, for example as provided on a container for the sample. The identity of the operator can also be encoded and stored. After deploying and/or recovering the sample collectors, the data is transmitted to a base processor. The samples are tested, preferably using a test unit coupled to the base processor, and again the time is recorded.

Abstract: A filtration/sterilization assembly which comprises: a filtration housing comprising a base unit and an outer housing, the base unit comprises a permeate channel, a port for removing permeate from the permeate channel, a feed channel disposed about the permeate channel, and a port for feeding a feed stream into the feed channel; and an integrated filtration and sterilization cartridge replaceably disposed within the filtration housing; wherein the outer housing is disposed about the cartridge so as to form a feed chamber between the inner surface of the outer housing and the outer surface of the filtration member and wherein the feed chamber is in contact with the feed channel of the base unit, and wherein permeate from the cartridge is passed through to the permeate channel for discharging from the assembly.

Abstract: A system is provided for producing a three dimensional object from a reactive liquid medium capable of being solidified. The object is constructed from many successive layers of the solidified reactive liquid medium when subjected to appropriate synergistic stimulation. A reservoir contains both the reactive liquid medium and an underlying supporting, substantially immiscible, non-reactive liquid medium. To begin forming the object, a platform within the reservoir is initially positioned at a depth equal to the thickness of a first layer to be solidified, and continues to support the object being constructed. The synergistic source radiates toward the reactive liquid medium and imaging apparatus defining a three dimensional object of required configuration selectively controls the size and shape of that part of a new two dimensional layer to be solidified. At least part of the new layer is solidified, after which a further layer is applied.

Abstract: A system for generating three-dimensional objects by creating a cross-sectional pattern of the object to be formed at a selected surface of a fluid medium capable of altering its physical state in response to appropriate synergistic stimulation by impinging radiation, particle bombardment or chemical reaction, successive adjacent laminae, representing corresponding successive adjacent cross-sections of the object, being automatically formed and integrated together to provide a step-wise laminar buildup of the desired object, whereby a three-dimensional object is formed and drawn from a substantially planar surface of the fluid medium during the forming process.

Abstract: A system for generating three-dimensional objects by creating a cross-sectional pattern of the object to be formed at a selected surface of a fluid medium capable of altering its physical state in response to appropriate synergistic stimulation by impinging radiation, particle bombardment or chemical reaction, successive adjacent laminae, representing corresponding successive adjacent cross-sections of the object, being automatically formed and integrated together to provide a step-wise laminar buildup of the desired object, whereby a three-dimensional object is formed and drawn from a substantially planar surface of the fluid medium during the forming process.

Abstract: An irradiator includes a support structure for supporting and rotating a cylinder of the type used for treating fluids. The cylinder is hollow and is mounted for rotation about an inclined axis for permitting fluids such as blood constituents to flow by gravity downward along the internal peripheral wall of the cylinder. The angle of inclination, the drive speed and the thickness of the fluid film on the wall of the cylinder are controlled and variable in order to achieve consistent and predictable results during various treatment processes, and for critical in controlling the precise exposure of the fluid to the lamp. A unique collection cup is provided at the discharge end of the cylinder for receiving the discharged, treated fluid and the collection cup is designed to receive and seat one end of the lamp assembly. The cylinder is mounted on roller bearings having a resilient bearing surface for isolating potential external vibration.

Abstract: Contaminant levels in a fluid such as air or water are reduced by producing a pulsed electron beam having an average primary electron energy of from about 90 to about 110 thousand electron volts (corresponding to an average injected electron energy of from about 45 to about 55 thousand electron volts in a preferred case) and directing the electron beam through the fluid. The contaminant compounds may include organic compounds and certain inorganic compounds such as NO.sub.x and SO.sub.x. The fluid is preferably contained in a contaminant reduction cell that is separated from an electron beam source by an electron-transparent window.

Abstract: A system for generating three-dimensional objects by creating a cross-sectional pattern of the object to be formed at a selected surface of a fluid medium capable of altering its physical state in response to appropriate synergistic stimulation by impinging radiation, particle bombardment or chemical reaction, successive adjacent laminas, representing corresponding successive adjacent cross-sections of the object, being automatically formed and integrated together to provide a step-wise laminar buildup of the desired object, whereby a three-dimensional object is formed and drawn from a substantially planar surface of the fluid medium during the forming process.

Abstract: A system for generating three-dimensional objects by creating a cross-sectional pattern of the object to be formed at a selected surface of a fluid medium capable of altering its physical state in response to appropriate synergistic stimulation by impinging radiation, particle bombardment or chemical reaction, successive adjacent laminae, representing corresponding successive adjacent cross-sections of the object, being automatically formed and integrated together to provide a step-wise laminar buildup of the desired object, whereby a three-dimensional object is formed and drawn from a substantially planar surface of the fluid medium during the forming process.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for the production of high precision large scale, micro and mini structures using three dimensional stereolithography. The objects formed using these methods have minimal stress between layers and low curl distortion. The objects also have low warpage because no post-cure treatment is necessary. The methods include the use of elevated pressure, elevated temperature, or sequential polymerization of polymer precursor fluid, or a combination of these, in the three dimensional stereolithographic process.

Abstract: A method of cleaning fouling materials from a radiation module, the method comprising the steps of: (i) immersing at least a portion of the radiation module in a fluid; and (ii) subjecting the radiation module to vibration at a frequency sufficient to substantially inhibit fouling materials adhering to the at least one radiation source. A radiation module for use in a fluid treatment system comprising: a support member for mounting the module in the fluid treatment system; at least one radiation assembly extending from the support member; and a vibration generator associated with the at least one radiation assembly. The radiation module is self-cleaning and can take the form of a radiation source module or a radiation sensor module. Incorporation of the radiation source module in a fluid treatment system is also described.

Abstract: A point of use water purification system for home use is provided comprising a carbon block filter housed in a self-contained disposable pressure vessel for removing particulates and organic contaminants from water. The filter is provided with a pore-size distribution, a binder and a flow path which optimizes filtration performance and enhances microbiological kill rates obtained in a source of radiant energy which is used to kill microorganisms in the filtered water. The source of radiant energy comprises an ultraviolet discharge lamp having an elongate central axis and a diverter for providing a spiral plug flow of water about the discharge lamp. A flow regulator adjusts flow through the system for varying line pressure conditions to ensure adequate exposure of microorganisms to ultraviolet energy. A lamp control circuit conserves power and optimizes ultraviolet output.

Abstract: A method for producing an object by layerwise solidification of the object by means of electromagnetic radiation is expedited by simultaneously solidifying the material of a layer at a plurality of places.An apparatus for carrying out the method comprises an irradiation device (11, 12, 14, 15, 16) generating a plurality of beams (20, 21, 22) as well as a control device (7, 17, 18, 19) directing each of the plurality of beams independently to different regions of the layer (8a . . . 8d).

Abstract: A filtration/sterilization assembly which comprises: a filtration housing comprising a base unit and an outer housing, the base unit comprises a permeate channel, a port for removing permeate from the permeate channel, a feed channel disposed about the permeate channel, and a port for feeding a feed stream into the feed channel; and an integrated filtration and sterilization cartridge replaceably disposed within the filtration housing; wherein the outer housing is disposed about the cartridge so as to form a feed chamber between the inner surface of the outer housing and the outer surface of the filtration member and wherein the feed chamber is in contact with the feed channel of the base unit, and wherein permeate from the cartridge is passed through to the permeate channel for discharging from the assembly.