Contact Devices Patents (Class 261/75)
  • Patent number: 8178061
    Abstract: Processes and systems are disclosed that relate to the removal of impurities and separation the light olefins from an MTO product vapor stream. Specifically, the processes and systems relate to recovery of light olefins during regeneration of an adsorber in an oxygenate removal unit. Processes and systems for recovering light olefins during regeneration of an adsorber in an oxygenate removal unit can include recycling residual effluent stream to an upstream operation unit upstream of the oxygenate removal unit. Processes and systems for recovering light olefins during regeneration of an adsorber in an oxygenate removal unit can also include recycling residual effluent gas produced by depressurizing residual effluent in the first adsorber, as well as preferably venting an effluent gas from the first adsorber to a compressor upstream of the oxygenate removal unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: UOP LLC
    Inventor: Jason T. Corradi
  • Patent number: 8178048
    Abstract: A dispenser fixture for dispersing aromatic vapors into a facility includes an elongated dispenser chamber bounded by end walls, one containing a motor driven fan and the other wall containing fixtures for supplying and controlling electrical current for powering the fan motor. The chamber, containing trays supporting a replaceable supply of aromatic material, presents the aromatic material to an air flow passing into apertures positioned near or in the other wall such that a carrier arm supporting the fixture orientates the fan motor to discharge air enriched with aromatic vapors in a horizontal direction into the facility. The fixture includes upstanding side walls joining the end walls, a floor wall joining the side walls and the end walls, and a top wall overlying the side and end walls for enclosing the aromatic materials in the chamber. The dispenser fixture may be made of a hard plastic or metal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Pestco, Inc.
    Inventors: Arnold H. Zlotnik, Raymond Czapko
  • Publication number: 20120111194
    Abstract: To provide a gas mixture separation apparatus and a method which can reduce the energy consumption necessary to separate one type of gas, such as CO2, from a gas mixture, such as combustion exhaust gas or process gas, to reduce the operating cost of the apparatus. A gas mixture separation apparatus includes a gas hydrate formation part for hydrating one type of gas contained in a gas mixture containing a plurality of gas components to form a gas hydrate slurry, a dehydration part for dehydrating the gas hydrate slurry, and a gas hydrate decomposition part for decomposing and regasifying the gas hydrate obtained by the dehydration, and is characterized in that the water removed from the gas hydrate slurry in the dehydration part and the water generated when the gas hydrate is decomposed in the gas hydrate decomposition part are mixed together and the mixed water is introduced into the gas hydrate formation part as circulating water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2010
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Applicant: MITSUI ENGINEERING & SHIPBUILDING CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Mitsuru Miyagawa, Kazuyoshi Matsuo, Souichiro Sakurai, Masakazu Sakai, Akira Kidoguchi
  • Publication number: 20120097255
    Abstract: A method for monitoring consumption of at least one consumable in a mass transfer system. The method includes providing at least one accurate mass transfer apparatus configured to provide mass transfer of a gas into a liquid to generate a liquid output, wherein the relative amounts of liquid and gas are set, and for each mass transfer apparatus: measuring the amount of liquid output, and determining, based on the amount of liquid output and the relative amounts of liquid and gas, a quantity of at least one of the gas and liquid consumed in that mass transfer apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2011
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Inventors: David Alan Reed, Patrick Silva Fernandes, Richard Beckett, Scott Gregory Lammers, Daniel James Hills, Stephen Graham Munnings, Jessica Daisy Rodriguez, Evan E. Koslow
  • Patent number: 8146892
    Abstract: A waterfall decorative humidifier, including mainly a housing, a water exit on top of the housing, a water sub-receptacle in the lower portion of the housing, a water pump in the water sub-receptacle, and a fan in the housing; in which the water pump is connected with the water exit through a water pipe, and in which the housing is generally of the shape of a waterfall; wherein at least one shaft is provided on the housing, and a decoration is connected to the shaft directly or through a mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Giftec Ltd
    Inventor: Jack Hou
  • Patent number: 8133434
    Abstract: In an exemplary embodiment, the present invention includes at least one reservoir with a delivery mechanism in communication therewith. The delivery mechanism draws an air treatment material from the reservoir and provides the air treatment material in response to a decreased level of active air treatment material or the detection of a malodor. Additionally, the delivery mechanism includes a control system and a detection system. The control system activates the detection system at a timed interval or in response to a change in one or more ambient conditions (e.g., motion, temperature, light, humidity, etc.). Once activated, the detection system samples the environment for either the level of active air treatment material or the quality of the environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: The Dial Corporation
    Inventors: Jeffrey Bankers, Sanam Nassirpour, Kevin Hafer
  • Patent number: 8123833
    Abstract: A process for producing a gas-containing cleaning water which contains a specific gas dissolved in water, which process comprises dissolving the specific gas into water under an increased pressure exceeding an atmospheric pressure to prepare a gas-containing water having a concentration of the gas exceeding solubility of the gas under an atmospheric pressure and, then, removing a portion of the dissolved gas by decreasing pressure on the gas-containing water; an apparatus for producing a gas-containing cleaning water which comprises an apparatus for dissolving a gas (14) in which a specific gas is dissolved into water under a pressure exceeding the atmospheric pressure and an apparatus for removing a portion of a dissolved gas (15) in which the pressure on the gas-containing water obtained from the apparatus for dissolving a gas is decreased to a pressure lower than the pressure under which the gas has been dissolved so that a portion of the dissolved gas is removed; and a cleaning apparatus using the gas-con
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Kurita Water Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Morita, Hiroto Tokoshima
  • Publication number: 20120039754
    Abstract: A headless suspended mass transfer and reaction tower system used for the scrubbing, stripping or chemical reaction between gases and liquids. The system comprises an elongated shell having a closed top end and a suspension member configured to suspend the tower from an external suspension support. Various embodiments of the system can be adapted for the purposes of chemical vent scrubbing, absorption, odor abatement, gas-liquid chemical reactions, or similar processes. The tower can be operated in the classical counter current or concurrent flow modes, under pressure, or in a partial vacuum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2011
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Inventor: Carlos Alvarado
  • Patent number: 8114676
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for measuring the concentrations of organic and inorganic carbon, or of other materials, in aqueous samples are described, together with related, specially adapted components and sub-assemblies and related control, operational and monitoring systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: GE Analytical Instruments
    Inventors: Gregory B. Conway, Michael R. Scaer, Paul Melanson, Gordon K. Francis, Pei Huang
  • Publication number: 20120032360
    Abstract: A tower/frame structure of interconnected columns and beams (which may be used in a cooling tower) and novel columns, beams, connection mechanisms and other components are provided. In one embodiment, a column and a beam are constructed of pultruded composite fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) materials. The beam includes two sidewall extensions or flanges (each having one or more attachment apertures) at one end and which are integral with the beam for connection to the column (having one or more corresponding attachment apertures). The dimension/spacing between the inner walls of the two flanges substantially equals or is slightly larger than the outer dimension of the column. The attachment holes are aligned and a fastener is inserted through the extensions and column for attaching the column and beam. The C-shaped end of the beam substantially conforms to the cross-sectional shape and dimensions of the column.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Applicant: Composite Cooling Solutions, L.P.
    Inventors: James A. Bland, Jesse Q. Seawell, Dustin L. Troutman, Shane E. Weyant, Charles J. Bardo
  • Patent number: 8097166
    Abstract: This invention offers effective and efficient method to produce and to use LIQUID defined as activated liquid which contains sufficient amount of micro bubbles of diameter less than 10 micrometers. LIQUID exhibits very useful properties for the purification of liquid, sterilization, extinguishment of undesirable bubbles, preservation of freshness of food, storage of gas in liquid, the decomposition of pollutants etc. The method to produce LIQUID comprises a means to rotate a rotor installed in a fixed tube wherein the rotor and the fixed tube are provided with a set of permanent magnets and a set of linear protuberances, and liquid and gas are introduced in the gap formed between the fixed tube and the rotor by pumping means driven by the motor. The micro bubbles are effectively produced with the repulsive magnetic field generated by the S (or N) pole of at least 30% of the whole magnets faced with the said gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Inventor: Takeshi Nakashima
  • Patent number: 8080127
    Abstract: A carbon foam evaporator is described which can be used in a wide variety of operating conditions. The evaporator utilizes a carbon foam with a bi-model pore distribution. The carbon foam is thermally stable up to temperatures of at least 300° C., is rigid, and has a compressive strength of at least 100 psi. The carbon foam is also resistant to chemical attacks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: GrafTech International Holdings Inc.
    Inventor: Chong Chen
  • Publication number: 20110305616
    Abstract: Vapor-liquid contacting apparatuses comprising a primary contacting zone and a secondary contacting zone are disclosed. A representative secondary contacting zone is a secondary absorption zone, such as a finishing zone for subsequent contacting of the vapor effluent from the primary contacting zone to further remove impurities and achieve a desired purity of purified gas exiting the secondary absorption zone. The secondary contacting zone is disposed below the primary contacting zone, such that the secondary contacting zone, which must operate efficiently in removing generally trace amounts of remaining impurities, is more protected from movement than the more elevated, primary or initial contacting stages for bulk impurity removal. The apparatuses are therefore especially beneficial in offshore applications where they are subjected to rocking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2010
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Applicant: UOP LLC
    Inventor: Zhanping XU
  • Patent number: 8058369
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a bubble column reactor comprising a column reactor having a sparger plate dividing the column reactor into a top reaction compartment and a bottom compartment, characterized in that an inlet and outlet line for introducing and disposing a flushing medium are connected to the bottom compartment; and an operation method thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignees: Saudi Basic Industries Corporation, Linde AG
    Inventors: Richard Schneider, Peter M. Fritz, Sebastian Muschelknautz, Heinz Bölt, Talal Ali, Fuad Mosa
  • Publication number: 20110268845
    Abstract: A method for the efficient solubilization of carbon dioxide in water through the use of high energy impacts is disclosed. The method can optionally includes mixing the carbon dioxide and water to form an annular dispersed flow, accelerating the carbon dioxide and water prior to the collision; providing a retention network to collect the carbonated water flow. Also disclosed are systems and apparatuses for practicing the disclosed methods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2010
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventor: Giancarlo Fantappiè
  • Patent number: 8028975
    Abstract: One exemplary embodiment can be a stack for a separation vessel adapted to receive a fluid having one or more phases. The stack may include one or more walls surrounding a void, a packed bed positioned within the void, and a distributor positioned above the packed bed. Generally, the stack has a height greater than its width. Usually, the separation vessel further includes a base having a length greater than its height, and the height of the stack is orientated substantially perpendicular to the length of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: UOP LLC
    Inventors: Jonathan Andrew Tertel, July S. Maglente, David Alden Bahr
  • Publication number: 20110187011
    Abstract: A device for infusion of gas into fluid, off gassing said fluid and returning said off gassed fluid to a body of fluid, comprises an intake tube having a bottom opening submergable below a body of fluid, gas diffusion means positioned within a bottom portion of said intake tube for infusing gas into fluid within said intake tube, whereby the rising bubbles of infused gas drives the liquid in the intake tube upwardly to a top portion of the intake tube and through a cross tube section in communication with said intake tube portion, said cross tube section extending substantially perpendicularly to said intake tube and above said body of fluid to an off gassing section, said off gassing section extending above the cross tube section and allowing said liquid to have surface exchange with the air and thus removal of gasses from the liquid and being positioned above the body of water, thereby creating a head differential.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Applicant: BLUE PLANET ENVIRONMENTAL INC.
    Inventors: David Burns, Jason Yeo, Richard Lonetto
  • Patent number: 7988928
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a treatment or hydrotreatment reactor comprising at least one granular bed (12), an essentially liquid phase (L) and an essentially gaseous phase (G) present in the bottom of the reactor and separated by an interface (38), and a distribution plate (20) with at least one main chimney (32) allowing circulation of liquid phase (L) towards the bed and at least one passage (30) for feeding gas phase (G) into said bed. According to the invention, plate (20) also comprises at least one mixed chimney (34) for circulation of the liquid phase towards the bed or for feeding the gas phase into said bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: IFP
    Inventors: Frédéric Augier, Christophe Boyer
  • Publication number: 20110162534
    Abstract: An appliance for heating and frothing a milk-containing liquid. The appliance includes a steam supply arrangement having an outlet with an opening for delivering into the milk-containing liquid bubbles of steam. The outlet is associated with a valve for adjusting the bubble size of the steam bubbles delivered into the liquid from the steam outlet opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2009
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Inventors: Christophe S. Boussemart, Alexa Perrin
  • Publication number: 20110158847
    Abstract: The invention provides systems and methods for exchanging gas in a microfluidic device, and methods for preparing such microfluidic devices. The systems and methods can be used to transfer oxygen to blood to assist lung function in a patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2010
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Inventors: Joseph L. Charest, Jeffrey T. Borenstein, Joseph M. Bauer
  • Patent number: 7942140
    Abstract: A microbubble generator includes a fuel pump for pumping fuel with an introduction pipe for guiding the liquid toward the inlet of the fuel pump. An air pipe includes one end joined with the introduction pipe from the side, and the other end opened as an air inlet. A bubble generating orifice is disposed in an output side pipe of the fuel pump. The air pipe is formed of an intake air pipe and a joint side air pipe. An air amount adjustment orifice is disposed at a joint portion between the joint side air pipe and the introduction pipe. The bubble generating orifice has a taper portion with the diameter reduced from the input side to the output side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Noriyuki Kawamata, Kazuto Fukuzawa
  • Publication number: 20110060173
    Abstract: Methods and assemblies for improving the reaction kinetics of, conserving reactants utilized in, and/or producing a more pure reaction product of, liquid-phase reactions that involve volatile reactants and products are provided. The methods and assemblies herein provide for a feed of reaction liquid to two or more absorption zones, wherein the temperature and/or feed rate of the liquid is independently adjusted prior to introduction into at least one of the two or more absorption zones. More particularly, the temperature and feed rate of the liquid as delivered to each absorption zone can be adjusted independently to optimize the absorption of at least a portion of any gaseous reactants and byproducts from the gaseous product stream and/or to optimize reaction zone conditions. Reaction kinetics may thus be improved, or substantially maintained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: DOW GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES INC.
    Inventor: John D. Myers
  • Patent number: 7901636
    Abstract: Disclosed is an optimized process and apparatus for more efficiently and economically carrying out the liquid-phase oxidation of an oxidizable compound. Such liquid-phase oxidation is carried out in a bubble column reactor that provides for a highly efficient reaction at relatively low temperatures. When the oxidized compound is para-xylene and the product from the oxidation reaction is crude terephthalic acid (CTA), such CTA product can be purified and separated by more economical techniques than could be employed if the CTA were formed by a conventional high-temperature oxidation process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Eastman Chemical Company
    Inventors: Alan George Wonders, Robert Lin, Marcel de Vreede, Lee Reynolds Partin
  • Publication number: 20110017066
    Abstract: To provide a small active oxygen generating device capable of efficiently continuously generating active oxygen while supplying oxygen in the air. In the active oxygen generating device in which water is made to exist between an anode and a cathode composed of a base material containing a conductive polymer and by turning on electricity between the anode and the cathode, the conductive polymer deoxidizes the oxygen dissolved in the water to generate active oxygen, the cathode is rotatably installed about a conductive horizontal axis with part of the surface being projected over the surface of the water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Shiro Takeuchi, Akira Shiga, Takuya Furuhashi
  • Patent number: 7842255
    Abstract: Method for carbamate condensation of a carbon dioxide/ammonia gaseous phase in a liquid phase in a condensation unit of the so-called submerged type comprising a heat exchange tube bundle having a predetermined number of tubes intended for carbamate condensation, wherein the gaseous phase and the liquid phase are fed contemporaneously and independently to each of the tubes intended for condensation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Urea Casale S.A.
    Inventor: Lorenzo Pennino
  • Patent number: 7829037
    Abstract: Disclosed is an optimized process and apparatus for more efficiently and economically carrying out the liquid-phase oxidation of an oxidizable compound. Such liquid-phase oxidation is carried out in a bubble column reactor that provides for a highly efficient reaction at relatively low temperatures. When the oxidized compound is para-xylene and the product from the oxidation reaction is crude terephthalic acid (CTA), such CTA product can be purified and separated by more economical techniques than could be employed if the CTA were formed by a conventional high-temperature oxidation process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Eastman Chemical Company
    Inventors: Thomas Earl Woodruff, Alan George Wonders
  • Publication number: 20100243953
    Abstract: Methods are provided for achieving dynamic mixing of two or more fluid streams using a mixing device. The methods include providing at least two integrated concentric contours that are configured to simultaneously direct fluid flow and transform the kinetic energy level of the first and second fluid streams, and directing fluid flow through the at least two integrated concentric contours such that, in two adjacent contours, the first and second fluid streams are input in opposite directions. As a result, the physical effects acting on each stream of each contour are combined, increasing the kinetic energy of the mix and transforming the mix from a first kinetic energy level to a second kinetic energy level, where the second kinetic energy level is greater than the first kinetic energy level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventor: David Livshits
  • Publication number: 20100237163
    Abstract: Disclosed is a device and method for generating a microbubble infused solution, the device comprising a cartridge including a first and second compartment separated by a small channel, wherein the cartridge is formed from a pliable and gas-impermeable material, and having a bubble solution inside the cartridge. Applying pressure to a substantial portion of an outer side of a selected compartment forces at least a portion of the bubble solution inside the selected compartment through the small channel to an unselected compartment and form microbubbles inside the cartridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2009
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Applicant: CABOCHON AESTHETICS, INC.
    Inventors: James E. Chomas, Doug S. Sutton
  • Publication number: 20100193975
    Abstract: A humidifier includes a housing and a humidifier module having a first and a second end face and a plurality of replacement members secured at the first and second end faces by a sealing compound, wherein the housing is configured to accommodate the humidifier module, and wherein the humidifier module is retained in the housing in positive engagement with the housing at at least one of the first and the second end face.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2008
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Applicant: CARL FREUDENBERG KG
    Inventors: Andreas Kammann, Udo Eping, Bernd Altmueller
  • Patent number: 7674429
    Abstract: Glycolic disinfectant compositions and related methods and apparatus for electrostatic dispensation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: JohnsonDiversey, Inc.
    Inventor: Claudio L. K. Lins
  • Patent number: 7674438
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a monoolefin production system comprising an extraction-hydrogenation zone for extracting a highly unsaturated hydrocarbon from an olefin stream into a polar solvent and, in situ, hydrogenating the highly unsaturated hydrocarbon to a monoolefin. In other embodiments, monoolefin production systems include an extraction-hydrogenation zone for performing the extraction and hydrogenating steps in situ. In alternative embodiments, the hydrogenation zone is disposed downstream from the extraction zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LP
    Inventors: Tin-Tack Peter Cheung, Marvin M. Johnson
  • Patent number: 7674439
    Abstract: A quench zone mixing apparatus that occupies a low vertical height and has an improved mixing efficiency and fluid distribution across the catalyst surface includes a swirl chamber, a rough distribution network, and a distribution apparatus. In the swirl chamber, reactant fluid from a catalyst bed above is thoroughly mixed with a quench fluid by a swirling action. The mixed fluids exit the swirl chamber through an aperture to the rough distribution system where the fluids are radially distributed outward across the vessel to the distribution apparatus. The distribution apparatus includes a plate with a number of bubble caps and associated drip trays that multiply the liquid drip stream from the bubble caps to further symmetrically distribute the fluids across the catalyst surface. Alternatively, deflector baffles may be associated with the bubble caps to provide a wider and more uniform liquid distribution below the plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Fluor Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Garry E. Jacobs, Steven W. Stupin, Robert W. Kuskie, Douglas E. Nelson, F. Emmett Bingham
  • Publication number: 20090311342
    Abstract: A method for activating hydrogen molecules dissolved in water and stabilizing the concentration of the hydrogen molecules is provided. The method for activating and stabilizing hydrogen molecules dissolved in water is characterized by allowing hydrogen ions to coexist with the hydrogen molecules.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2007
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventor: Osao Sumita
  • Patent number: 7622036
    Abstract: A system is disclosed herein for treating wastewater liquid by utilizing aerobic biological species. The contaminated wastewater stream is pretreated in a dissolved air flotation system to remove suspended solid waste, including large particles such as fats, grease, and physically emulsified oils. The purified wastewater containing dissolved waste is thereafter oxygenated and further decontaminated in a bioreactor tank. Biological species in the bioreactor tank consume oxygen and perform bodily functions that converts dissolved waste into easily removable carbon dioxide and suspend solids. Oxygen consumed by the biological species is replenished by pumping the wastewater though a liquid-oxygen mixer. A controller regulates the speed of the pump based on real-time oxygen concentration measurements provided by a corresponding oxygen probe disposed within the wastewater in the bioreactor tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: World Water Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Dwain E Morse
  • Patent number: 7597288
    Abstract: A lightning protection system, method and aircraft are provided for reducing the flammability of jet fuel spilled during an in-flight refueling operation between a supplying aircraft and a receiving aircraft. An inert gas is injected adjacent to a refueling interface in order to displace oxygen in the fuel-air mixture and thereby reduce the ability of the fuel vapor to ignite upon occurrence of an ignition source such as lightning. The refueling system may comprise a boom or a hose and drogue type device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: David W. Kwok, David M. Smith, John W. Smith
  • Patent number: 7591983
    Abstract: The invention is intended to produce high-pressure light fuel gas with good combustibility by contacting and reacting high-temperature, high-pressure water and heavy oil with each other in a contact-reaction unit to extract light oil components from the heavy oil and to remove metals. The high-temperature, high-pressure water and the heavy oil are introduced to the contact-reaction unit for contact and reaction with each other therein. Heavy oil components not dissolved in the high-temperature, high-pressure water are separated by precipitation from hydrocarbon gases and light oil components which are dissolved in the high-temperature, high-pressure water. The separated heavy oil components are burnt or incinerated without any further modification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., Petroleum Energy Center
    Inventors: Hirokazu Takahashi, Shinichi Inage, Nobuyuki Hokari, Masahiko Yamagishi, Akinori Hayashi, Osami Yokota, Youji Ishibashi
  • Publication number: 20090165829
    Abstract: A process for producing a gas-containing cleaning water which contains a specific gas dissolved in water, which process comprises dissolving the specific gas into water under an increased pressure exceeding an atmospheric pressure to prepare a gas-containing water having a concentration of the gas exceeding solubility of the gas under an atmospheric pressure and, then, removing a portion of the dissolved gas by decreasing pressure on the gas-containing water; an apparatus for producing a gas-containing cleaning water which comprises an apparatus for dissolving a gas (14) in which a specific gas is dissolved into water under a pressure exceeding the atmospheric pressure and an apparatus for removing a portion of a dissolved gas (15) in which the pressure on the gas-containing water obtained from the apparatus for dissolving a gas is decreased to a pressure lower than the pressure under which the gas has been dissolved so that a portion of the dissolved gas is removed; and a cleaning apparatus using the gas-con
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Applicant: KURITA WATER INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Morita, Hiroto Tokoshima
  • Patent number: 7501101
    Abstract: Microchannel apparatus comprising a header and plural flow microchannels is described in which orifices connect the header and the flow microchannels. The orifices constrict flow. The ratio of the cross-sectional area of each of the orifices to the cross-sectional area of the flow microchannels connected to the orifices is between 0.0005 and 0.1. Also described is microchannel apparatus for conducting unit operations in which a device comprises two arrays of microchannels, and a unit operation is conducted on a fluid as it passes through the first set of microchannels and into a header where a second unit operation is performed, and then the fluid stream passes into the second array of microchannels where the first unit operation is again performed. Methods of conducting unit operations in the apparatuses are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignee: Battelle Memorial Institute
    Inventors: Robert S. Wegeng, Ward E. TeGrotenhuis, Greg A. Whyatt
  • Publication number: 20090039534
    Abstract: This invention concerns an apparatus and a method for producing carbonated water capable of obtaining high concentration carbonated water effectively. Carbon dioxide gas is passed through a first carbon dioxide gas dissolver composed of a membrane module to be dissolved in water and the carbonated water passing through the first carbon dioxide gas dissolver is passed through a static mixer, which is a second carbon dioxide gas dissolver. Consequently, a high concentration carbonated water can be obtained remarkably, effectively and easily with a simpler structure than conventionally.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Applicants: MITSUBISHI RAYON CO., LTD., MITSUBISHI RAYON ENGINEERING
    Inventors: Ken Ooyachi, Hiroki Sakakibara, Hiroshi Tasaka, Masaaki Satou, Masanori Itakura, Katsuya Sanai
  • Publication number: 20080296787
    Abstract: A fluid display includes a fluid source, a gas source, and a light source. The fluid source coherently emits fluid along a first trajectory. The gas source emits gas along a second trajectory that intersects the first trajectory. The light source is directed toward the intersection of the first trajectory and the second trajectory. The second trajectory may intersect the first trajectory at an oblique angle. The fluid source and/or the gas source may emit intermittently. The fluid source may emit a laminar jet or spherical fluid globules. The gas source may intermittently emit a gas vortex. The gas may be a flammable gas. The fluid may be water and the gas may be air. The fluid display may provide a “water sparkler” effect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: WET ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Mark W. Fuller, Michael Jason Baldwin, Keith J. Kalis, Helen S. Park, Riae Yoo
  • Patent number: 7452516
    Abstract: The invention relates to a distribution device (1) for distributing liquid over an underlying catalyst bed comprising a horizontal collection tray (2) provided with at least one gas chimney (3) for upward or downward passage of gas and with liquid dosing nozzles (4) for downward passage of liquid, wherein the gas chimney(s) (3) and liquid doing nozzles (4) are separate from each other and do not have the same longitudinal axis, and wherein each liquid dosing nozzle (4) comprises a concentrically arranged liquid passing hole (5) and splash plate (6), wherein the splash plate (6) is located below the liquid passing hole (5) and below the collection tray (2) such that there is a free fall distance for liquid of at least 100 mm between the hole (5) and the splash plate (6). The invention further relates to a reactor for hydroprocessing comprising such distribution device (1), the use of such reactor for hydroprocessing and a process for hydrocracking or hydrotreating in such reactor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: Bastiaan Willem Van Hasselt, Bastiaan Leonard Johan Pieter Kikkert, Johannis Desiderius Stolwijk, Peter Mervyn Wilkinson, Marjanne Clara Zonnevylle
  • Patent number: 7431805
    Abstract: A method, system, and apparatuses for simultaneous heat and mass transfer utilizing a carrier-gas at various absolute pressures are described. A method may include: thermally coupling at least two continuous contacting apparatuses together; varying the pressure between the at least two continuous contacting apparatuses; allowing heat removed from the first continuous contacting apparatus to be the heat delivered to the second continuous contacting apparatus. A system may include: at least two continuous contacting apparatuses thermally coupled together and operating at different absolute pressures. A continuous contacting apparatus may include: an evaporation chamber and a dew-formation chamber both operating at an absolute pressure in a vacuum range. A continuous contacting vapor recompression apparatus may include: an evaporation chamber operating at a first absolute pressure; and a dew-formation chamber operating at a second absolute pressure higher than the first absolute pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Arizona Board of Regents
    Inventor: James R. Beckman
  • Publication number: 20080211117
    Abstract: To stably maintain an opening degree characteristic of a driven lever, the driven lever (5) is attached to one end (3A) of a main throttle shaft (3) to which a main throttle valve (4) is attached, a cam lever (10) is attached to one end (8A) of a sub throttle shaft (8) to which a sub throttle valve (9) is attached, a cam surface (10A) of the cam lever (10) faces to a roller (5A) of the driven lever (5), a cup-shaped throttle cover (12) is arranged on one side wall (1A) of a throttle body (1), an opening portion (12C) of a throttle cover (12) is closed by a closing cover (20), and a lever storage chamber (22) formed by the throttle cover (12) and the closing cover (20) accommodates the cam lever (10) and the driven lever (5).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Applicant: Keihin Corporation
    Inventors: Ryouji Inagawa, Yoji Kojima
  • Publication number: 20080211118
    Abstract: A method of storing and dispensing a fluid includes providing a vessel configured for selective dispensing of the fluid therefrom. The vessel contains an ionic liquid therein. The fluid is contacted with the ionic liquid for take-up of the fluid by the ionic liquid. There is substantially no chemical change in the ionic liquid and the fluid. The fluid is released from the ionic liquid and dispensed from the vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2008
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Applicant: Matheson Tri-Gas, Inc.
    Inventors: Carrie L. Wyse, Robert Torres, Tadaharu Watanabe, Joseph V. Vininski
  • Publication number: 20080202914
    Abstract: A de-entrainment device separates entrained liquid from vapor in a fluid stream that flows through a chimney tray in a distillation tower. The separated liquid is collected and shielded from the fluid stream to prevent re-entrainment of the liquid in the vapor flowing upward into the tower. The chimney tray includes risers with hats that have gutters to guide liquid toward the tray deck, channels to collect and drain liquid from the top of the hats to the tray deck, and baffles extending from the risers to shield the liquid collected on the tray deck from the vapor flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2008
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Applicant: ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company Law Department
    Inventors: Arun K. Sharma, Theodore Sideropoulos, Berne K. Stober, Brian D. Albert, Alvin U. Chen, Vikram Singh
  • Publication number: 20080197516
    Abstract: There is provided a micro-bubble generator including a swirling-flow generating vane nozzle and vortex breakdown nozzle connected coaxially to each other. The swirling flow generating vane nozzle produces a swirling flow of a liquid having a gas introduced to the center thereof from a gas feeding unit. The swirling flow is supplied to a flow constricting section included in the vortex breakdown nozzle to provide micro bubbles from a vortex breakdown section also included in the vortex breakdown nozzle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2005
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Inventors: Harumichi Abe, Kazuo Matsuuchi, Minoru Iidaka
  • Publication number: 20080127662
    Abstract: There is provided a system and method for a modular central plant. In one implementation, the inventive system includes a chiller unit and cooling tower that are designed to be modularly assembled, transported, and interconnected, thereby decreasing system cost and assembly time, increasing system maintainability, and improving scalability for increasing capacity at a future date. The removable wall panels and roof of an embodiment of the present invention aid in maintainability by providing enhanced access to critical system components such as the chiller assembly. The modular architecture of the present invention allows for speedy delivery and installation, and with only external electrical and water connections needed, the system can become rapidly operational.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2007
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Inventors: Michael E. Stanfield, Kenneth M. Liles, Stephen C. Mullins, Gary G. Niver
  • Publication number: 20080099934
    Abstract: A nebulization fan includes a casing, a fan, a nebulization generating unit and a water supplying unit. The nebulization generating unit generates vapor by vibrator nebulizer, an electrical heating nebulizer or an electrode heating nebulizer. The vapor is guided to a mouth of a vapor nozzle by a vapor conduit. Therefore, the vapor can be blew to desired area through the mouth. The vapor can be scattered by the wind generated by the fan. The water particle size in the vapor is small and indoor article will not get wet by the water particle in the vapor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2006
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Inventor: Kuei-Tang Chang
  • Patent number: 7122162
    Abstract: A reaction chamber (4) elongated along an essentially vertical axis in which at least one reaction fluid is circulated from top to bottom of said chamber (4) through at least one catalyst bed (5), whereby downstream from catalyst bed (5) in the direction of circulation of the reaction fluid, the chamber contains at least one inlet (1) for introducing at least one quenching fluid into contact with the reaction fluid, and downstream from inlet (1) the chamber contains at least one box (8) for further contact, mixing and quenching of said fluids. The box (8) has at least one passage section (9) for entry of the fluids into the box (8). Downstream from the passage section (9) the box (8) contains elements (11) that puts fluids into vortex motion in the box (8) in a direction essentially non-radial and non-parallel to the axis of the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: Institut Francais du Petrole
    Inventors: Ludovic Raynal, Isabelle Harter, Francis Aubry
  • Patent number: 7115186
    Abstract: A liquid material evaporation apparatus including a mixing chamber, a flow control unit, a first flow passage for introducing a liquid material, a second flow passage for introducing a carrier gas connected to the mixing chamber through a first nozzle, the first nozzle inhibiting backflow from the mixing chamber into the second flow passage. A third flow passage for discharging evaporated mixed gas is connected to the mixing chamber through a second nozzle, the mixed liquid material and carrier gas being forced through the second nozzle by the flow control unit, the mixed liquid material and carrier gas depressurizing after passing through the second nozzle to evaporate into a mixed gas in the third flow passage. Heat is applied to the mixing chamber and the second and third flow passages to enhance mixing in the mixing chamber and to avoid condensation in the third flow passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: STEC Inc.
    Inventors: Hideaki Miyamoto, Wataru Nishida, Tetsuo Shimizu