With A Flow-modifying Surface Patents (Class 250/438)
  • Patent number: 10948400
    Abstract: A method of forming an optical transmission flow cell that includes forming a fluid pathway cavity though a housing, and forming an optical pathway cavity through the housing and through the fluid pathway cavity, the optical pathway cavity configured to receive an optical fiber to emit light through the fluid pathway cavity. Material is added at a transition between the optical pathway cavity and fluid pathway cavity to form a surface at the transition configured to prevent formation of air pockets within fluid in the optical pathway cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Radislav Alexandrovich Potyrailo, Jared Timothy Hale, Christian M. Heller
  • Patent number: 10761422
    Abstract: A processing liquid supplying apparatus is arranged to discharge a processing liquid from a discharge port to supply the processing liquid to a processing object, and the processing liquid supplying apparatus includes a first piping, through the interior of which the processing liquid can flow, the interior of the first piping being in communication with the discharge port, and an X-ray irradiating means irradiating X-rays onto the processing liquid present inside the first piping. The first piping has an opening in its pipe wall and the opening is closed by a window member formed using a material that can transmit the X-rays, and the X-ray irradiating means irradiates the X-rays onto the processing liquid present inside the first piping via the window member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Assignee: SCREEN Holdings Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masahiro Miyagi, Hiroyuki Araki, Masanori Suzuki, Tomokatsu Sato, Nobuo Kawase
  • Patent number: 10435670
    Abstract: Methods for continuously inactivating virus during manufacture of a biological product are provided. The methods include steps of (1) combining (a) a composition including a biological product, and (b) a composition including a virus-inactivation reagent, to obtain (c) a treatment composition having a predetermined property for inactivation of a virus, (2) confirming that the treatment composition exhibits the predetermined property, (3) transferring the treatment composition to a treatment vessel that includes an inlet, an outlet, and a static mixer, the transferring occurring at the inlet, (4) incubating the treatment composition in the treatment vessel at a predetermined temperature while the treatment composition flows at a predetermined rate and contacts the static mixer, and (5) collecting the treatment composition from the treatment vessel at the outlet, wherein steps (1) to (5) are carried out continuously. Apparatuses and systems including such a treatment vessel are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Assignee: Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH
    Inventors: Jonathan Coffman, Jeff Goby, Scott Godfrey, Raquel Orozco, Jens Holger Vogel
  • Patent number: 10093558
    Abstract: A solution for disinfecting a fluid, colloid, mixture, and/or the like using ultraviolet radiation is provided. An ultraviolet transparent enclosure can include an inlet and an outlet for a flow of media to be disinfected. The ultraviolet transparent enclosure includes a material that is configured to prevent biofouling within the ultraviolet transparent enclosure. A set of ultraviolet radiation sources are located adjacent to the ultraviolet transparent enclosure and are configured to generate ultraviolet radiation towards the ultraviolet transparent enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Assignee: Sensor Electronic Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Saulius Smetona, Timothy James Bettles, Alexander Dobrinsky, Michael Shur, Remigijus Gaska
  • Patent number: 9938165
    Abstract: A reactor that operates with ultraviolet light emitting diodes (UV-LEDs) to attain UV photoreactions or UV photo-initiated reaction in a fluid flow for various applications, including water purification. The UV-LED reactor is comprised of a conduit means for passing fluid flow, an ultraviolet light emitting diode (UV-LED), and a radiation-focusing element to focus the UV-LED radiation to the fluid in the longitudinal direction of the conduit. The UV-LED reactor may include photocatalysts or chemical oxidants, which are activated by UV emitted by UV-LEDs for photocatalytic and photo-initiated reactions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: The University of British Columbia
    Inventor: Fariborz Taghipour
  • Patent number: 9441196
    Abstract: An apparatus (100) capable of viral inactivation of liquid media includes at least one coaxial cylinder (110) constructed of an outer cylinder (120) and an inner cylinder (130), a liquid media inlet (140), at least one emitter of type C ultraviolet radiation (145), and a liquid media outlet (150). The inner cylinder has an outer diameter adapted to form a gap (160) between the outer diameter of the inner cylinder and the inner diameter of the outer cylinder. The media flows in a substantially cyclonic flow path along the gap. The at least one emitter of type C ultraviolet radiation is placed inside the inner cylinder. The outlet is connected to the outer cylinder at, or proximal to, an end of the outer cylinder opposite the inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Genzyme Corporation
    Inventor: Muthukumar Dhanasekharan
  • Patent number: 9260323
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a water treatment device that can treat water at its point of use. For example, the water treatment device may be positioned at or near a faucet outlet, so that water can be treated immediately before it leaves the faucet. The water treatment device may be a water treatment reactor with a plurality of UV LEDs positioned between a shield and a heat sink component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: MAG Aerospace Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Razmik B. Boodaghians, Shane Nazari
  • Patent number: 9040938
    Abstract: A device (1) comprises a source (20) for emitting ultraviolet light, an inlet (30) for letting in fluid to the device (1), an outlet (40) for letting out fluid from the device (1), and means (51, 52) for performing a straightening action of a flow of fluid through the device (1). The flow straightening means comprise at least one flow straightening element (51, 52) having inlet openings for letting in fluid at one side and outlet openings for letting out fluid at another side, wherein each inlet opening is in communication with a plurality of outlet openings, and wherein the element (51, 52) comprises a maze of randomly arranged, interconnected holes. In such a structure, a water element that is moving from one side of the element (51, 52) to another side may take one of various paths, as a result of which variations in inlet conditions can be dampened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: Paulus Cornelis Duineveld, Eva Mondt, Harko Jan Taekema, Willem Sjouke Wijma, Marc Alexander Pastoors, Wilhelmus Hendrikus Maria Bruggink
  • Patent number: 8907302
    Abstract: A channel for a UV irradiation device, in which the UV irradiation device is disposed in a closed channel and an inlet cone is provided in the direction of flow upstream of a UV reactor, which, as part of the wall of the channel, increases the cross section of the channel from an incoming pipeline cross section to a cross section of the reactor, in which a flow rectifier with at least one inner first guide element and at least one outer second guide element is disposed in the inlet cone, wherein the inner guide element is a substantially circular, cylindrical pipe and the outer guide element runs substantially parallel to the outer wall and is disposed at a distance from the outer wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Xylem IP Holdings LLC
    Inventors: Hans-Joachim Anton, Madhukar Rapaka
  • Patent number: 8890087
    Abstract: Water purification apparatus, comprising an elongate UV source and a conduit for water to be purified formed of a UV transmissive material, wherein the conduit has an inlet and an outlet and positioned so that part of it is wrapped around at least part of the UV source thereby to sterilize water within the conduit, further comprising reflective means for UV radiation to be reflected onto one or more parts of the conduit which extends beyond the part which is wrapped around the UV source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: WLI Trading Limited
    Inventors: Jonathan Ben-David, Heung Soon Kim
  • Patent number: 8859988
    Abstract: Reliable coupling of a high-power laser beam into a liquid-jet in a liquid-jet guided laser system can be achieved with high lifetime performance of the nozzle and the protection window, through setting the parameters of the liquid-jet guided laser system according to an optimum relationship that links the focus point of the laser, the focus cone angle, the laser beam energy distribution profile and the nozzle geometry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignees: se2quel Management GmbH
    Inventors: Jens Guenter Gaebelein, Jeroen Hribar
  • Publication number: 20140299554
    Abstract: Disclosed is a treatment unit for treating wastewater that includes a treatment housing having a wastewater inlet and a treated water outlet; a vertical turbulator plate located in the vicinity of the wastewater inlet; a vertical ultraviolet (UV) tube assembly located between the turbulator plate and the treated water outlet; and an electrical controller. The turbulator plate has different size apertures. The treatment unit also can include a flow paddle located in the wastewater inlet, a paddle flow controller that actuates the flow paddle, and an electrical controller supplies power to the UV tube assembly and to the paddle flow controller. The corresponding method for treating wastewater with the treatment unit also is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2014
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Applicant: BRITENSTINE INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Eric A. Britenstine
  • Patent number: 8840845
    Abstract: Provided herein are systems and methods for the treatment and purification of fluids (e.g., water) using a light-emitting diode (LED) light source. In one embodiment, for example, there is provided a fluid flow conduit having an LED light source and a photo-catalytic material disposed therein. The LED light source emits ultraviolet light with a peak wavelength between about 265 nm and about 400 nm. In operation, the photo-catalytic material absorbs the ultraviolet light from the LED light source, and releases free radicals into the fluid. The free radicals then degrade organic substances (e.g., bacteria) in the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Biological Illumination, LLC
    Inventors: Robert R. Soler, Fredric S. Maxik, David E. Bartine, Valerie Ann Bastien, James Lynn Schellack, Eliza Katar Grove
  • Publication number: 20140263090
    Abstract: One example of a fluid disinfection unit includes a chamber through which fluid can flow, the chamber having an inlet through which fluid enters the chamber and an outlet through which fluid exits the chamber; a source for illuminating the chamber with ultraviolet light; and a plurality of baffles within the chamber for defining a multiplicity of subchambers within the chamber through which fluid to be purified flows from the inlet to the outlet; each subchamber being located to receive the ultraviolet light; where holes are defined through at least one baffle, and wherein those holes collectively define a fluid flow area that increases with the radial distance from the center of the baffle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Stephen A. Yencho
  • Publication number: 20140263091
    Abstract: Improved fluid sanitization assemblies are provided. More particularly, the present disclosure provides improved fluid/water sanitization assemblies utilizing UV light and/or ozone. The UV light and/or ozone can be generated via light emitting diodes (“LEDs”) (e.g., via UV LEDs). In certain embodiments, by emitting light at a wavelength of about 250 nm to about 270 nm (e.g., 253.7 nm), the fluid sanitization assemblies thereby disinfect and/or sanitize fluid/water. The present disclosure provides for a fluid sanitization assembly including a pressure vessel configured and dimensioned to house fluid; a plurality of light emitting diodes (“LEDs”) mounted with respect to the pressure vessel, each LED mounted with respect to the pressure vessel via an optic member; wherein each optic member is configured and dimensioned to focus and direct UV light emitted from its associated LED to the fluid within the pressure vessel for sanitization purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: HAYWARD INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: James Anthony Carter, III, Douglas M. Sawyer, JR.
  • Publication number: 20140264072
    Abstract: A device that can sterilize material passing through it efficiently by utilizing an appropriate light source that can be powered by external sources (including use of an electromagnetic field to transmit energy) or by a power source that is contained within the device itself, which may include elements to create turbulence within the material passing through it, and elements to reflect the light source where useful but trap the light from escaping to ensure safety. The device may be rigid or flexible, possibly including a mechanism to fold or collapse the device for delivery through a port or lumen and expanded or unfolded prior to use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: INCEPTUS TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
  • Patent number: 8822950
    Abstract: A column assembly of a radionuclide generator includes a column that retains a parent radionuclide that spontaneously decays to a relatively short-lived daughter radionuclide. A fluid path extends from an inlet port to the column and then to an outlet port and allows daughter radionuclide to be eluted from the radionuclide generator for use. Improved retention of parent radionuclide in the column is accomplished by preventing fluid from entering the flow path in a liquid state, such as during sterilization. Proper column chemistry is also promoted by preventing excess moisture from coalescing in the column, which may promote a higher and/or more reliable yield of daughter radionuclide from a radionuclide generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Lantheus Medical Imaging, Inc.
    Inventor: John Henry Evers
  • Publication number: 20140158906
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention comprise different methods and equipment for efficiently and relatively inexpensively producing Casimir cavities for use in quantum vacuum energy extraction. The methods include without limitation, sintering; submicron porous filter materials; web roll-to-roll produced mesh or foil layers; nanotube arrays; web roll-to-roll produced porous membranes such as graphene, metallically doped; web roll-to-roll produced metallic crystals with self assembling arrays of nano-channels; three-dimensional prototyping; charged particle deposition; metal wire bundles; metal tube bundles; and metallically doped or metallically coated glass or polymer wire bundles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Inventor: Charles Hillel ROSENDORF
  • Publication number: 20140158887
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention comprise different equipment for efficiently and relatively inexpensively producing Casimir cavities for use in quantum vacuum energy extraction. The equipment includes without limitation, sintered materials; submicron porous filter materials; web roll-to-roll produced mesh or foil layers; nanotube arrays; web roll-to-roll produced porous membranes such as graphene, metallically doped; web roll-to-roll produced metallic crystals with self assembling arrays of nano-channels; materials produced by three-dimensional prototyping; materials produced by charged particle deposition; metal wire bundles; metal tube bundles; and metallically doped or metallically coated glass or polymer wire bundles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Inventor: Charles Hillel ROSENDORF
  • Patent number: 8742364
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for point of use location treatment of potable water supplies on demand on board passenger vehicles, such as aircraft. The systems described generally provide increased safety features, alternate ultraviolet light sources, and reduced power consumption.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: MAG Aerospace Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Razmik B. Boodaghians, Jeff Lassegard
  • Patent number: 8696898
    Abstract: A device is proposed for the UV disinfection of liquids in an open or closed channel, having an inflow for the liquid to be disinfected, at least one UV irradiator arranged downstream of the inflow in a main flow direction and also having an outflow arranged downstream of the UV irradiator, in which a mixing device, driven by an electric motor, is arranged between the inflow and the at least one UV irradiator, which mixing device is set up for generating a cross-flow having at least one velocity component transverse to the main flow direction in order to improve mixing of the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: XYLEM IP Holdings LLC
    Inventors: Wolf-Dietrich Meese, Geoff Jones-Prichard
  • Publication number: 20140086793
    Abstract: A system and method for reducing pathogens in a biological fluid such as whole blood or blood-derived products includes a pump configured to propagate the fluid through a serpentine-shaped flow path while exposing the fluid to UV irradiation. Extensive mixing of flow is accomplished by causing the pump to vary the flow of fluid. In embodiments, the pump may be operated to periodically switch the flow back and forth between a high flow rate and a slow flow rate. Alternatively, the pump may be periodically stopped or even cause the flow to reverse direction for short periods of time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: HEMALUX TECHNOLOGIES LLC
    Inventors: Ehud Ben-Hur, Heather Balji
  • Patent number: 8679416
    Abstract: There is described a fluid treatment system. The fluid treatment system comprises: an open channel for receiving a flow of fluid and a fluid treatment zone. The fluid treatment zone comprising a plurality of elongate radiation source assemblies orientated such that: (i) a longitudinal axis of each radiation source assembly is transverse to a direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone, and (ii) an end of each radiation source assembly is disposed above a predetermined maximum height of fluid flow in the open channel. A first baffle plate is disposed upstream of the fluid treatment zone. The first baffle plate is positioned such that a distal end thereof is below the predetermined maximum height of fluid flow in the open channel. In a preferred embodiment, the present fluid treatment system provides for an area in which a cleaning system for the radiation source assemblies can be “parked” when not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Trojan Technologies
    Inventors: George Traubenberg, Douglas Penhale, Li-Zheng Ma
  • Patent number: 8641898
    Abstract: An apparatus for treating a liquid includes: (a) a pump volute or hydrocyclone head having an inlet and a throat having an outlet and a central axis, (b) a tank connected to the outlet of the throat, wherein the tank has a maximum inner diameter that is larger than an inner diameter of the outlet of the throat, and (c) a wave energy source having a first electrode within the pump volute or hydrocyclone head that extends through the outlet of the throat along the central axis, and a second electrode within the tank that is spaced apart and axially aligned with first electrode along the central axis. The liquid is supplied to the inlet of the pump volute or hydrocyclone head, and is irradiated with one or more wave energies produced by the wave energy source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Foret Plasma Labs, LLC
    Inventor: Todd Foret
  • Patent number: 8628660
    Abstract: A method of and apparatus for treating liquids flowing in a thin film around a source of wave energy to directly expose the liquid to the wave energy, preferably generated in whole or part by an electrical arc between carbon electrodes. In addition to the wave energy generated by the electrical arc, energy generated by cavitation of the flowing liquid may be used in treating the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Foret Plasma Labs, LLC
    Inventor: Todd Foret
  • Patent number: 8603333
    Abstract: A method of and apparatus for treating liquids flowing in a thin film around a source of wave energy to directly expose the liquid to the wave energy, preferably generated in whole or part by an electrical arc between carbon electrodes. In addition to the wave energy generated by the electrical arc, energy generated by cavitation of the flowing liquid may be used in treating the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Foret Plasma Labs, LLC
    Inventor: Todd Foret
  • Publication number: 20130293881
    Abstract: An optical sensor may include a sensor head that has an optical window for directing light into a flow of fluid and/or receiving optical energy from the fluid. The optical sensor may also include a flow chamber that includes a housing defining a cavity into which the sensor head can be inserted. In some examples, the flow chamber includes an inlet port defining a flow nozzle that is configured to direct fluid entering the flow chamber against the optical window of the sensor head. In operation, the force of the incoming fluid impacting the optical window may prevent fouling materials from accumulating on the optical window.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2012
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventors: Eugene TOKHTUEV, Christopher J. OWEN, Anatoly SKIRDA, William M. CHRISTENSEN
  • Patent number: 8569713
    Abstract: A column assembly of a radionuclide generator includes a column that retains a parent radionuclide that spontaneouosly decays to a relatively short-lived daughter radionuclide. A fluid path extends from an inlet port to the column and then to an outlet port and allows daughter radionuclide to be eluted from the radionuclide generator for use. Improved retention of parent radionuclide in the column is accomplished by preventing fluid from entering the flow path in a liquid state, such as during sterilization. Proper column chemistry is also promoted by preventing excess moisture from coalescing in the column, which may promote a higher and/or more reliable yield of daughter radionuclide from a radionuclide generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Lantheus Medical Imaging, Inc.
    Inventor: John Henry Evers
  • Patent number: 8565381
    Abstract: In a radiation source and a method for the generation of X-radiation, a liquid is arranged in a liquid line, the liquid being completely surrounded by the liquid line in the direction of an evacuated chamber. A portion of the liquid line is permeable to an electron beam such that the electron beam extending through the chamber is able to enter via the liquid line so as to interact with the liquid in an interaction zone for the generation of X-radiation. The radiation source ensures a good dissipation of heat from the interaction zone and prevents liquid from entering the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Förderung der angewandten Forschung e.V.
    Inventors: Frank Sukowski, Norman Uhlmann
  • Patent number: 8552399
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for producing photocatalytic reaction water through a photocatalytic reaction, which can produce water containing a satisfactory amount of active oxygen species, can eliminate microorganisms, parasites or protozoa, shows high oxidizing ability for a prolonged period of time, can reduce the power requirements, is small in size, and is applicable to various devices. A photocatalyst is radiated with light emitted from a light source to produce active oxygen species, and the active oxygen species is diffused in water, whereby the water is provided with functions of the active oxygen species. An oxidation reaction with the water is utilized to perform at least one selected from the elimination of microorganisms, the elimination of parasites, and the elimination of protozoa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: K2R Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenichiro Tanaka, Licca Tanaka, Mizuki Kawakatsu
  • Publication number: 20130256557
    Abstract: A fluorescence analysis system may include a sensor head that has a light source configured to emit light into a flow of fluid, a detector configured to detect fluorescent emissions from the flow of fluid, and a temperature sensor. The system may also include a flow chamber that includes a housing defining a cavity into which the sensor head can be inserted. In some examples, the housing is configured such that, when a flow of fluid enters the housing, the flow of fluid divides into at least a major stream passing adjacent the light source and the detector and a minor stream passing adjacent the temperature sensor. Such a flow chamber may direct fluid past different sensors components while inhibiting a build-up of solids particles, the generation of air locks, or other flow issues attendant with continuous or semi-continuous online operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventors: Eugene TOKHTUEV, William M. CHRISTENSEN
  • Patent number: 8529770
    Abstract: A portable UV-C purification system is provided that includes a current reduction technique for an electric pump to reduce power demands on an associated generator to thereby produce a light weight and efficient system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Water of Life, LLC.
    Inventor: Stephen A. Yencho
  • Patent number: 8525126
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a UV fluid sterilizer, which is suitably formed to sterilize fluid having poor UV transmission. According to the present invention, the UV fluid sterilizer includes a plurality of UV sterilization units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventors: Sung Chul Lee, Jin Auck Kim, Yu Sup Kim
  • Patent number: 8507874
    Abstract: A fluid treatment system having: an inlet; an outlet; and a fluid treatment zone disposed therebetween. The fluid treatment zone has: (i) an elongate first radiation source assembly having a first longitudinal axis, and (ii) an elongate second radiation source assembly having a second longitudinal axis. The first and second longitudinal axes are non-parallel to each other and to a direction of fluid flow through the treatment zone. The present fluid treatment system can treat large volumes of fluid (e.g., wastewater, drinking water or the like); it requires a relatively small “footprint”; it results in a relatively lower coefficient of drag resulting in an improved hydraulic pressure loss/gradient over the length of the treatment system; and it results in relatively lower (or no) forced oscillation of the radiation sources thereby mitigating breakage of the radiation source and/or protective sleeve (if present).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Trojan Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Wes From, Boyko M. Tchavdarov, Mike Marcu, Richard Gratton, David Olson, Jim Fraser, Dusko A. Kezele
  • Patent number: 8497491
    Abstract: An air disinfection device aimed at improving the efficiency and quality of air disinfection or sterilization may be achieved through an air disinfection device comprising a body housing a power supply and control unit, which, in turn, comprises an energy storage capacitor, a high-voltage constant current source, an ignition pulse generator, a ferrite-core pulse transformer, and a program control unit. The air disinfection device may also comprise an ultra-violet radiation source in the form of a pulsed gas-discharge lamp mounted on the body and enclosed in a tubular quartz casing. Given that the energy storage capacitor and the pulsed gas-discharge lamp may form a discharge circuit connected to the ignition pulse generator through the ferrite-core pulse transformer, the pulsed gas-discharge lamp may be placed in a bactericidal radiation translucent casing, resulting in convection air-cooling due to a natural draft inside the casing that disinfects and sterilizes surrounding air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Yanex Intellectual Property Limited
    Inventors: Yakov Abrammerovich Goldshtein, Sergei Gennadevich Shashkovsky
  • Patent number: 8420022
    Abstract: Provided herein are systems and methods for the treatment and purification of fluids (e.g., water) using a light-emitting diode (LED) light source. In one embodiment, for example, there is provided a fluid flow conduit having an LED light source and a photo-catalytic material disposed therein. The LED light source emits ultraviolet light with a peak wavelength between about 265 nm and about 400 nm. In operation, the photo-catalytic material absorbs the ultraviolet light from the LED light source, and releases free radicals into the fluid. The free radicals then degrade organic substances (e.g., bacteria) in the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Biological Illumination, LLC
    Inventors: Robert R. Soler, Fredric S. Maxik, David E. Bartine, Valerie Ann Bastien, James Lynn Schellack, Eliza Katar Grove
  • Patent number: 8388850
    Abstract: A mobile water treatment system is disposed on a trailer of a truck. There is an intake filter, an intake hose, a pump or multiple pumps for water intake and sending water throughout the system, a filtering section that may include sand and/or bag filter or other types of filters, an ozone treatment section after the filters, a holding tank after the ozone section, a UV treatment section after the holding tank, and a chlorination tank. The water may then be sent to a water storage facility or other place as desired. The system includes a generator for power to run the system, and a controller for the system. The ozone section makes use of a misting nozzle in order to increase ozone contact time, and decrease ozone breakdown. The UV section makes use of a slightly downward tilted table with UV bulbs and reflectors above it, and preferably is mounted on a leveling system. A method of treating water uses the mobile system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Neos International, LLC
    Inventor: Roger A. Delano
  • Patent number: 8366925
    Abstract: A method of and apparatus for treating liquids flowing in a thin film around a source of wave energy to directly expose the liquid to the wave energy, preferably generated in whole or part by an electrical arc between carbon electrodes. In addition to the wave energy generated by the electrical arc, energy generated by cavitation of the flowing liquid may be used in treating the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Foret Plasma Labs, LLC
    Inventor: Todd Foret
  • Patent number: 8343342
    Abstract: An apparatus for treating a liquid includes: (a) a pump volute or hydrocyclone head having an inlet and an outlet, (b) a throat having a first opening, a second opening and a central axis, wherein the first opening is connected to the outlet of the pump volute or hydrocyclone head, (c) a tank connected to the second opening of the throat, and (d) a wave energy source having a first electrode within the pump volute or hydrocyclone head that extends through the outlet into the first opening of the throat along the central axis of the throat, and a second electrode within the tank that is spaced apart and axially aligned with first electrode. The liquid is supplied to the inlet of the pump volute or hydrocyclone head, and is irradiated with one or more wave energies produced by the wave energy source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Foret Plasma Labs, LLC
    Inventor: Todd Foret
  • Patent number: 8293185
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus are described for use in the irradiation of fluids. The apparatus has an elongate conduit (312) having a central axis (334) and two or more elongate ultraviolet radiation sources (114) extending along the interior of the conduit for irradiation of the fluid within the conduit. An array of static mixer elements (300) is located within the conduit, and the two or more elongate ultraviolet radiation sources (114) are arranged to extend through apertures in deflection surfaces of the static mixer elements making up the array (300). The apparatus and method allows for reliable and uniform ultraviolet irradiation of fluids of low UV transmissivity, such as turbid fluids, particularly for ultraviolet disinfection of such fluids. Wipers may be fitted to the static mixer elements to enable relative movement between the static mixer elements and the surfaces of the elongate ultraviolet radiation sources to clean the surfaces of the sources without need to dismantle the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Statiflo International Limited
    Inventor: John Michael Baron
  • Patent number: 8292100
    Abstract: A highly portable solar UV disinfection and water storage container with a uniquely traceable security seal that passively indicates by means of a permanent photochromic color change the efficacy of the UV disinfection process performed upon the drinking water within the sealed container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Aquasolix Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Lantis, Joesph Patrick Phelan, Anna Phelan
  • Publication number: 20120248330
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an ultraviolet sterilizer having a watertight function. The ultraviolet sterilizer includes a housing and an ultraviolet sterilization unit. The housing has an inlet through which ballast water is drawn into the housing, and an outlet through which the ballast water is discharged from the housing after the ballast water has been sterilized. The ultraviolet sterilization unit is provided in the housing and includes an ultraviolet lamp applying ultraviolet rays to the ballast water to sterilize the ballast water. The ultraviolet sterilizer further includes a cap which supports each of the opposite ends of the ultraviolet sterilization unit and is watertightly coupled to the housing. Thus, even if the ultraviolet sterilization unit is damaged, ballast water is prevented from being drawn into a reception space which contains external devices, and explosive gas which may cause the ultraviolet sterilizer to explode is also prevented from entering the cap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Applicant: Panasia Co.Ltd
    Inventors: Soo-Tae Lee, Tae-Sung Pyo, Su-Kyu Lee
  • Publication number: 20120097862
    Abstract: A fluid treatment apparatus particularly for sterilizing drinks comprises an elongate tubular duct (110) and an elongate UV light source (111) extending longitudinally of the duct (110). The fluid flows longitudinally of the duct (110) in a thin annular low passage (114) which extends around the UV light source (111). A mixing device (112) disposed between adjacent longitudinal portions of the duct (110) for diverts all of the fluid flowing along a first portion of the passage (114) through fluid mixing means (113,116) in the device (112) and returns the mixed fluid to a second portion of the passage (114). Micro-organisms in the thin flow of fluid are killed as they come within close proximity of the light source (111). The mixing device (112) causes all of the flow to be thoroughly mixed and returned to the flow passage (114). The provision of a plurality of mixing devices along the length of the duct (110) increases the likelihood that all microorganisms receive a sufficient lethal dose of UV radiation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2010
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Inventor: Malcolm Robert Snowball
  • Patent number: 8148699
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a fluid treatment system comprising: an inlet; an outlet; and a fluid treatment zone disposed between the inlet and the outlet. The fluid treatment zone has disposed therein: (i) an elongate first radiation source assembly having a first longitudinal axis, and (ii) an elongate second radiation source assembly having a second longitudinal axis. The first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis are non-parallel to each other and to a direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone. The present fluid treatment system has a number of advantages including: it can treat large volumes of fluid (e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Trojan Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Wes From, Boyko M. Tchavdarov, Mike Marcu, Richard Gratton, David Olson, Jim Fraser, Dusko A. Kezele
  • Patent number: 8000447
    Abstract: A gamma ray generator includes an ion source in a first chamber. A second chamber is configured co-axially around the first chamber at a lower second pressure. Co-axially arranged plasma apertures separate the two chambers and provide for restricted passage of ions and gas from the first to the second chamber. The second chamber is formed by a puller electrode having at least one long channel aperture to draw ions from the first chamber when the puller electrode is subject to an appropriate applied potential. A plurality of electrodes rings in the third chamber in third pressure co-axially surround the puller electrode and have at least one channel corresponding to the at least one puller electrode aperture and plasma aperture. The electrode rings increase the energy of the ions to a selected energy in stages in passing between successive pairs of the electrodes by application of an accelerating voltage to the successive pairs of accelerator electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Jani Petteri Reijonen, Frederic Gicquel
  • Patent number: 7985342
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating a fluid using a wave energy uses a cyclone separator configured to create a flow of the fluid in a thin film along a vortex path from a first end to a second end of the cyclone separator, a first electrode and a second electrode that are at least partially disposed within the cyclone separator, spaced apart from one another, and axially aligned with one another along a central axis of the cyclone separator from the first end to the second end. The electrodes are used to create an open electrical arc to provide the wave energy directly exposing the fluid as the fluid flows along the vortex path in close proximity to and surrounding the electrical arc such that only a gas separates the fluid from the open electrical arc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Foret Plasma Labs, LLC
    Inventor: Todd Foret
  • Publication number: 20110139999
    Abstract: An ultraviolet flux multiplying air sterilization chamber comprises inner surfaces having a diffuse reflective behavior. The sterilization chamber includes an inlet aperture and an outlet aperture for air to flow through said chamber and a light source emitting an ultraviolet light. Due to the reflectivity of the inner surfaces of the chamber, a flux of the ultraviolet light is multiplied by reflecting multiple times from the inner surfaces of the chamber. The inlet and outlet apertures are advantageously configured to reduce the amount of light that escapes from the chamber and increase the amount of photons available in the chamber. In an exemplary embodiment, perforated end panels having diffuse, reflective interior surfaces may be provided over at least a portion of the inlet and outlet apertures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2011
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: Novatron, Inc.
    Inventors: Reginald W. Clark, Bernard J. Eastlund, Michael W. Ingram, Joseph C. Stumpf
  • Patent number: 7838845
    Abstract: An ultraviolet irradiation water treatment apparatus includes a vessel having a cylindrical side portion, and plural rod-shaped ultraviolet lamps are disposed in parallel with a central axis of the side portion in the vessel. A water inlet pipe through which water flows into the vessel is provided in an outer wall of the side portion at a position in a tangential direction of an inner periphery of the side portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Norimitsu Abe, Takeshi Ide, Takahiro Soma, Seiichi Murayama, Masao Kaneko, Shojiro Tamaki, Masumi Nakadate, Akira Morikawa
  • Patent number: 7740753
    Abstract: A water treatment system that performs a water purifying treatment by use of ultraviolet radiation, comprises a front stage ultraviolet radiation device for radiating ultraviolet light in a front stage process in a water purifying treatment process, a rear stage ultraviolet radiation device for radiating ultraviolet light in a rear stage process, and a controller for controlling these ultraviolet radiation devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Norimitsu Abe, Takeshi Ide, Takeshi Matsushiro, Hiroyuki Suzuki, Seiichi Murayama
  • Patent number: 7691273
    Abstract: A method for clarifying a sludge, characterized in that a raw waste water is subjected to a solid-liquid separator and then to a primary filtration device, to separate it into a solid material and a liquid material, and the resultant liquid treated material is then treated by a process comprising an ozone treatment and a special light ray treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Inventor: Seishiro Murakami