Means To Remove Liquid From Treated Material By Contact With Solids Patents (Class 34/95)
  • Patent number: 7574816
    Abstract: A drier apparatus for removing water or other liquids from various materials includes a mixer, drying chamber, separator and regenerator and a method for use of the apparatus. The material to be dried is mixed with a heated media to form a mixture which then passes through the chamber. While passing through the chamber, a comparatively cool fluid is passed counter current through the mixture so that the mixture becomes cooler and drier and the fluid becomes hotter and more saturated with moisture. The mixture is then separated into drier material and media. The media is transferred to the regenerator and heated therein by the hot fluid from the chamber and supplemental heat is supplied to bring the media to a preselected temperature for mixing with the incoming material to be dried. In a closed loop embodiment of the apparatus, the fluid is also recycled from the regenerator to the chamber and a chiller is utilized to reduce the temperature of the fluid to a preselected temperature and dew point temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Inventor: Steve D. Shivvers
  • Publication number: 20090038174
    Abstract: A multi layered kitchen utensil dryer is provided comprising at least one layer of porous absorbent material enveloped by at least one sheet material, said sheet material being secured to the absorbent material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2008
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Applicant: Dar-Style Consultants & More Ltd.
    Inventor: Dvorah Hoffman-Lubitch
  • Patent number: 7481005
    Abstract: Examples of dehumidifying processes for clothes include spinning, extracting the moisture by pressure, or drying the clothes using heat and air. To dehumidify the clothes gently and economically in terms of energy consumption, a method and apparatus for dehumidifying clothes includes bringing the clothes into contact with at least one absorption body of an absorbent material. Advantageously, a rotating absorbent body is used, its sections being continuously alternately brought into contact with an item of clothing and dehumidified by pressing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Haugeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Edwin Bolduan, Wolfgang Proppe
  • Publication number: 20090000142
    Abstract: A drying apparatus includes an outer case, a portion of the outer case defining a cavity, an outlet disposed at a lower end of the cavity and a liquid dispersion unit, the liquid dispersion unit comprising a collector downstream of the outlet, a liquid evaporation unit in communication with the collector and an airflow generator for exhausting evaporated liquid from the collector to the exterior of the outer case. The liquid evaporation unit includes a high frequency agitator, such as a piezo-electric device. The piezo-electric device, when in use, agitates the surface of the water, and the water can be evaporated at a low energy cost. The waste liquid is therefore removed from the drying apparatus more hygienically and economically than known prior art arrangements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2006
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Applicant: Dyson Technology Limited
    Inventors: John Churchill, James Martin Coleman, James Dyson, Peter David Gammack
  • Patent number: 7279074
    Abstract: The invention refers to a paper machine clothing, in particular a forming wire or dryer felt, having a paper side and a machine side, the paper side being constituted by plastic elements (1, 11, 21, 31), for example in the form of a belt layer, yarns, coils or planar element rods, or the like, the plastic elements being equipped, at least on the surfaces constituting the paper side, with an anti-adhesive coating (5, 6, 14, 15, 24, 25, 34, 35) whose adhesion is less than the adhesion of the material of which the plastic elements (1, 11, 21, 31) are substantially made, which is characterized in that the plastic elements (1, 11, 21, 31) have, at least on the paper side, depressions (3, 4, 12, 13, 22, 23, 32, 33) into which anti-adhesive coating (5, 6, 14, 15, 24, 25, 34, 35) is incorporated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Assignee: Heimbach GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Walter Best, Walter Schaaf, Frank Zils
  • Patent number: 6742281
    Abstract: A semiconductor wafer drying apparatus is provided. In one embodiment, this apparatus includes a bath which can contain much deionized water so that semiconductor wafers soak in the deionized water; a chamber providing a space where vapor flows over the bath; a vapor supply line supplying vapor to the internal space of the chamber; an exhaust line discharging vapor contained in the chamber; a deionized water exhaust line discharging deionized water in the bath; a semiconductor wafer holder supporting the semiconductor wafer in the bath; and pitch guides placed at left and right sides of the semiconductor wafer, movable to a first position and a second position in a vertical direction, wherein the pitch guides are separated from the semiconductor wafer at the first position and contact the semiconductor wafer at the second position thus preventing the movement of the semiconductor wafer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Myung-Hwan Shin, Man-Young Lee, Kyung-Seuk Hwang
  • Patent number: 6701637
    Abstract: A web treatment device is disclosed capable of heating and creping a fibrous web with control systems for uniform operation. The web is pressed between two belts in a compression zone, where is it also subject to a temperature gradient that can assist in water removal. Durable coatings on the press belts can assist in maintaining good performance. The system can be used to apply texture to a fibrous web or drive chemical reactions or other physical changes in the web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Dean Lindsay, Kenneth Curtis Larson, Charles Herbert Goerg, Timothy Maurice McFarland, Michael Alan Hermans, Paul Douglas Beuther, Thomas Gerard Shannon
  • Patent number: 6696002
    Abstract: The present invention includes a composition having a co-continuous interconnecting channel morphology. These co-continuous interconnecting channels are predominately occupied with a polymer and particles that control the surface properties of the composition. The polymer composition may be used to form a desired shaped article such as plug type inserts and liners for closed containers, or it may be formed into a film, sheet, bead or pellet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Capitol Security Plastics, Inc.
    Inventor: Ihab M. Hekal
  • Publication number: 20030233766
    Abstract: Examples of dehumidifying processes for clothes include spinning, extracting the moisture by pressure, or drying the clothes using heat and air. To dehumidify the clothes gently and economically in terms of energy consumption, a method and apparatus for dehumidifying clothes includes bringing the clothes into contact with at least one absorption body of an absorbent material. Advantageously, a rotating absorbent body is used, its sections being continuously alternately brought into contact with an item of clothing and dehumidified by pressing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Publication date: December 25, 2003
    Inventors: Edwin Bolduan, Wolfgang Proppe
  • Patent number: 6634115
    Abstract: A conditioning device to change the moisture content of printing stock, in which the stock is brought into contact with at least one endless cloth that absorbs moisture. The endless cloth is heated by heated transport rolls. A reduction of the moisture content contributes to a reduction of distortions of the printing image in two-sided printing, especially in digital printing machines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: NexPress Solutions LLC
    Inventors: Kai-Michael Gundel, Gerhard Klukas, Andreas Schweizer
  • Patent number: 6613405
    Abstract: The present invention generally related to a monolithic composition comprising a water insoluble polymer and a deliquescent material. A deliquescent material is blended into the polymer so that the deliquescent material is distributed within the product. The deliquescent material blended in the water-insoluble polymer is capable of maintaining a substantially constant relative humidity in a closed container. The product may be used to form a desired shaped article such as plug type inserts and liners for closed containers, or it may be formed into a film, sheet, bead or pellet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: CSP Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Ihab M. Hekal
  • Patent number: 6578285
    Abstract: A device for absorbing or blotting grease from the surface of foods such as pizza comprising a support member having a handle for manually gripping the device and an absorbent or oligiophilic pad attached to such support member for blotting the surface of a food item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Inventor: Brian G. Turtzo
  • Patent number: 6571488
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to an apparatus for spin drying substrates in a spin dryer tank. A spin dryer cover is movable between a closed position to close an opening of the spin dryer tank and an open position to open the spin dryer tank, and a cylinder is coupled with the spin dryer cover. The cylinder is movable in a first operation to move the spin dryer cover to the open position and movable in a second operation to move the spin dryer cover to the closed position. A system for sensing the position of the spin dryer cover comprises a cylinder sensor configured to sense the first operation and the second operation of the cylinder. A cover sensor is configured to sense the position of the spin dryer cover. A logic circuit is configured to output a cover opening signal indicating that the spin dryer cover is in the open position when the cylinder sensor senses the first operation of the cylinder and the cover sensor senses that the spin dryer cover is in the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Mosel Vitelic, Inc.
    Inventors: Yu Chih Lin, Chih Hsin Tsai, Ming Hua Shih, Shih Kai Pao
  • Publication number: 20020166255
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to an apparatus for spin drying substrates in a spin dryer tank. A spin dryer cover is movable between a closed position to close an opening of the spin dryer tank and an open position to open the spin dryer tank, and a cylinder is coupled with the spin dryer cover. The cylinder is movable in a first operation to move the spin dryer cover to the open position and movable in a second operation to move the spin dryer cover to the closed position. A system for sensing the position of the spin dryer cover comprises a cylinder sensor configured to sense the first operation and the second operation of the cylinder. A cover sensor is configured to sense the position of the spin dryer cover. A logic circuit is configured to output a cover opening signal indicating that the spin dryer cover is in the open position when the cylinder sensor senses the first operation of the cylinder and the cover sensor senses that the spin dryer cover is in the open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Applicant: MOSEL VITELIC, INC., A Taiwanese Corporation
    Inventors: Yu Chih Lin, Chih Hsin Tsai, Ming Hua Shih, Shih Kai Pao
  • Patent number: 6460271
    Abstract: A method of making an insert and an insert for aldehyde absorption having a co-continuous interconnecting channel morphology comprising at least three components, (a) wherein component A is selected from the group of polymers that are semicrystalline polymers and amorphous polymers, wherein the amorphous polymers have a shear modulus greater than about 8 MPa; (b) wherein component B is a polymer; (c) wherein components A and B are immiscible within each other and, if components A and B react after mixing, components A and B are immiscible prior to reaction; (d) wherein component C is a particle and comprises a sulfite compound; (e) wherein the volume fraction of component A represents at least about 50% by volume of the total volume of components A, B and C; (f) wherein the preferential affinity between component B and component C is greater than between component A and component C; (g) wherein at least two phases are formed, one phase is composed of a majority of component A, and the second phase is composed
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Assignee: CSP Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Ihab M. Hekal
  • Publication number: 20020100184
    Abstract: The invention concerns a conditioning device to change the moisture content of printing stock, especially flat paper products, in which the stock is brought into contact with at least one endless cloth that absorbs moisture, the endless cloth being heated by heated transport rolls. A reduction of the moisture content contributes to a reduction of distortions of the printing image in two-sided printing, especially in digital printing machines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Publication date: August 1, 2002
    Inventors: Kai-Michael Gundel, Gerhard Klukas, Andreas Schweizer
  • Patent number: 6393722
    Abstract: The invention concern a chamber for drying animal waste, in particular poultry manure, adapted to receive a mixture (M) of fresh waste and dry waste, the floor thereof being adapted to retain the mixture (M) while being permeable to air (A), said floor consisting of an assembly of elements (60, 60′) each capable of forming means for retaining the waste and including means (T) which periodically enable to transfer outside the chamber (1) and through said floor (6) a fraction of the dry waste.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Assignee: Industries Agrigesco Inc.
    Inventor: Raymond Chardine
  • Patent number: 6381869
    Abstract: A device for pressing and drying organic materials. The organic material is inserted between two sheets of thin cloth which are, in turn, sandwiched between two thick felt pads. These pads are then sandwiched between platens made from inorganic material. The assembly is heated, resulting in a pressed and dried organic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Lee Valley Tools, Ltd.
    Inventor: Robert R. Lunan
  • Patent number: 6345453
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus of drying a fiber web (5) which is dried between two tight bands (1, 2) that move in parallel and turn around turning rolls (6a, 6b, 7a, 7b), the first band (1) being heated and the second band (2) being cooled, the fiber web (5) being arranged to run through the drying zone defined by the bands (1, 2) together with at least two felts or wires (3, 4) such that the fiber web (5) is in contact with the surface of the first band (1), a coarse wire (4) is in contact with the surface of the second, cooled band (2), and a fine wire (3) is between the fiber web (5) and the coarse wire (4). The fine wire (3) is cleaned with a cleaning device (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2002
    Assignee: Metso Paper, Inc.
    Inventors: Jari Ilomäki, Seppo Mustonen, Timo Ojala
  • Patent number: 6266894
    Abstract: A process and an apparatus for processing a charge of a solid material under conditions which include high mass flow rate of gas through the apparatus and which produce liquid from the solid material is disclosed. The apparatus includes a vessel having (i) an inlet end having an inlet for supplying the solid material to form a packed bed in the vessel; and (ii) an outlet end having at least one solids outlet, at least one liquids outlet. The apparatus is characterised by the at least one gas outlet being positioned above the solids/liquid outlets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Assignee: KFx Inc.
    Inventor: David Stewart Conochie
  • Patent number: 6263589
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of drying a fiber web and an arrangement in a fiber web drying apparatus, the fiber web being dried between two tight bands that move in parallel in the same direction and turn around turning rolls. The first band is heated and the second band is cooled. The fiber web is guided through a drying zone, defined by the bands, with at least one felt or wire, so that the fiber web comes into contact with the surface of the first, heated band and the felt or wire is between the fiber web and the second, cooled band. The position of the edge of the band is measured by means of a sliding block which is brought into contact with the edge of the band, the material of the sliding block being substantially harder than that of the band.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Assignee: Metso Paper, Inc.
    Inventor: Veli-Matti Vainio
  • Patent number: 6237245
    Abstract: A device for pressing and drying organic materials in a microwave oven. The organic material is inserted between two sheets of thin cloth which are, in turn, sandwiched between two thick felt pads. These pads are then sandwiched between platens made from inorganic material. The assembly is placed in a microwave oven and heated, resulting in a pressed and dried organic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Lee Valley Tools, Ltd.
    Inventor: Robert R. Lunan
  • Patent number: 6221446
    Abstract: The present invention includes processes and resulting structures for producing a modified polymer having channels. The channels act a controlled transmission passages through the polymer. A polymer is caused to assume a molten state, typically by applying heat and melting the polymer. A channeling agent is blended then reacted into the polymer so that it is distributed within the polymer. In one embodiment, an absorbtion additive is then blended into the product so that the absorbtion additive is distributed within the product. The product is solidified so that the channeling agent forms passages in the product through which a desired compound is communicable to additive that is entrained within the product. The solidified product may be used to form plug type inserts and liners for closed containers, or it may be formed into a film, sheet, bead or pellet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: Capitol Specialty Plastics, Inc
    Inventor: Ihab M. Hekal
  • Patent number: 6214255
    Abstract: The present invention includes processes and resulting structures for producing moisture absorbing desiccant entrained polymers. A polymer is caused to assume a molten state, typically by applying heat and melting the polymer. To achieve certain results in the hardened end product, such as rigidity and durability, the polymer normally acts as a moisture barrier in a solidified state, both before and after melting. A desiccating agent is blended into the polymer so that the desiccating agent is distributed within the polymer. A channeling agent is also blended into the polymer so that it is distributed within the polymer. Together, the polymer, desiccating agent and channeling agent create a blended mixture. The mixture is solidified so that the channeling agent forms passages in the mixture through which moisture is communicable to desiccating agent that is entrained within the mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: Capitol Specialty Plastics, Inc.
    Inventor: Ihab M. Hekal
  • Patent number: 6195908
    Abstract: A method and device for thermal drying of a solid product in small pieces utilizing a first contact element and a second contact element between which a layer of the solid product can be brought into contact. The first contact element and, opposed thereto, the second contact element, are arranged so that at least one contact element is heated comprising a heat source forming part and at least one of the contact elements is gas permeable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: D.S.P. N.V.
    Inventor: Guido Crul
  • Patent number: 6194079
    Abstract: The present invention includes processes and resulting structures for producing a modified polymer having interconnecting channels. The interconnecting channels act as controlled transmission passages through the polymer. A hydrophilic agent is blended into the polymer so that it is distributed within the polymer. In one embodiment, an absorbing material is blended into the polymer so that the absorbing material is distributed within the product. The product is solidified so that the hydrophilic agent forms passages in the product through which a desired composition is communicable to the absorbing material that is entrained within the product. The solidified product may be used to form a desired shaped article such as plug type inserts and liners for closed containers, or it may be formed into a film, sheet, bead or pellet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Assignee: Capitol Specialty Plastics, Inc.
    Inventor: Ihab M. Hekal
  • Patent number: 6170167
    Abstract: A structure for detachably attaching a drying agent unit to a lens barrel without increasing the size of the lens barrel. An opening for ventilation is formed in the circumference of the lens barrel. The drying agent unit comprises a container containing the drying agent. The container is provided with an opening. The drying agent unit is detachably attached to the lens barrel through a fixing mechanism such as fixing screws. The container communicates with the inside of the lens barrel through the openings in the attached state. Alternatively, the drying agent may be formed in a shape capable of fitting itself into the opening of the lens barrel, and a part of an outer surface of the drying agent that is exposed in the attached state is coated with an unbreathable coating. This eliminates the necessity of providing a container for the drying agent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Optical Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroshi Kato
  • Patent number: 6163980
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for continuous dehydration of sludge wherein, prior to dehydration, water is mechanically removed from the sludge, and the thus obtained sludge of cutting consistency is mixed with heated spheres. Dehydration is carried out at reduced pressure, wherein the sludge from which water has been mechanically removed is intimately mixed with the heated spheres in order to increase the heat capacity of the sludge. The dehydrated sludge and the cooled spheres are then separated from each other, the dehydrated sludge is removed, while the cooled spheres are reheated and subsequently added to fresh sludge that is to be dehydrated. The spheres are partly heated by means of water vapor coming from the sludge and partly by means of steam. The spheres are made from steel, having a diameter of 8-16 mm. The pressure in the system ranges form approx. 2 bars to approx. 0.05 bar. An apparatus is also provided for carrying out the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignees: DHV Milieu en Infrastructuur B.V., Technische Universiteit Delft Faculteit Technische Aardwetenschappen
    Inventors: Eduardus Julius Maria Van Poppel, Peter Carlo Rem
  • Patent number: 6131306
    Abstract: An apparatus for drying and smoothing a fibre web between two tight bands that move in parallel and run around turning rolls, the first band being heated with hot steam and the second band being cooled with water, and the fibre web being conducted through the drying zone that the bands define together with at least one felt or wire such that the fibre web is in contact with the surface of the first, heated band and that the felt or wire is between the fibre web and the second, cooled band. The apparatus and method further comprise spreading the fibre web in its transverse direction before it is led into the drying apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: Valmet Corporation
    Inventor: Elias Retulainen
  • Patent number: 6130263
    Abstract: The present invention includes processes and resulting structures for producing moisture absorbing desiccant entrained polymers. A polymer is caused to assume a molten state, typically by applying heat and melting the polymer. To achieve certain results in the hardened end product, such as rigidity and durability, the polymer normally acts as a moisture barrier in a solidified state, both before and after melting. A desiccating agent is blended into the polymer so that the desiccating agent is distributed within the polymer. A channeling agent is also blended into the polymer so that it is distributed within the polymer. The blending of the components is preferably done before the polymer is caused to assume a molten state. Together, the polymer, desiccating agent and channeling agent create a blended mixture. The mixture is solidified so that the channeling agent forms passages in the mixture through which moisture is communicable to desiccating agent that is entrained within the mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: Capitol Specialty Plastics, Inc.
    Inventor: Ihab M. Hekal
  • Patent number: 6124006
    Abstract: The present invention includes processes and resulting structures for producing a modified polymer having channels. The channels act as controlled transmission passages through the polymer. A polymer is caused to assume a molten state, typically by applying heat and melting the polymer. A channeling agent is blended then reacted into the polymer so that it is distributed within the polymer. In one embodiment, an absorbtion additive is blended into the product so that the additive is distributed within the product. The product is solidified so that the channeling agent forms passages in the product through which a desired compound is communicable to the additive that is entrained within the product. The solidified product may be used to form a desired shaped article such as plug type inserts and liners for closed containers, or it may be formed into a film, sheet, bead or pellet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: Capitol Specialty Plastics, Inc.
    Inventor: Ihab M. Hekal
  • Patent number: 6094834
    Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement for a drying section of a paper machine, the arrangement comprising a fine wire (5a) and a coarse wire (5b) that are arranged to pass between metal bands (2, 3) of a band dryer (1) together with a web (4) to be dried. The fine wire (5a) comprises at least three interwoven textural layers, wherein the outermost layers, in other words a surface (10) and a bottom (11), have a finer texture than the middle section (12) situated between them. According to a preferred embodiment, the surface layer (10) is provided with a denser texture than the bottom (11), which, in turn, has a denser texture than the middle section (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: Tamfelt OYJ ABP
    Inventors: Seppo Taipale, Terttu Turpeinen
  • Patent number: 6092298
    Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement for a drying section of a paper machine, the arrangement comprising a fine wire (5a) and a coarse wire (5b) that are arranged to pass between metal bands (2, 3) of a band dryer (1) together with a web (4) to be dried. The coarse wire (5b) comprises a fine texture (5d) to be placed against the cooled metal band (3). Further, against the fine-textured section (5d) placed against the cooled metal band (3) there is a coarse texture (5c).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Assignee: Tamfelt Oyj ABP
    Inventors: Ari Salminen, Kari Hyvonen
  • Patent number: 6080350
    Abstract: The present invention includes processes and resulting structures for producing moisture absorbing desiccant entrained polymers. A polymer is caused to assume a molten state, typically by applying heat and melting the polymer. A channeling agent is blended then reacted into the polymer so that it is distributed within the polymer. A desiccating agent is then blended into the product so that the desiccating agent is distributed within the product. The product is solidified so that the channeling agent forms passages in the product through which moisture is communicable to desiccating agent that is entrained within the product. The solidified product may be used to form plug type inserts and liners for closed containers, or it may be formed into any shaped article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: Capitol Specialty Plastics, Inc.
    Inventor: Ihab M. Hekal
  • Patent number: 6012232
    Abstract: Described is a through-flow cup which can be filled with a granule material and through which a liquid to be treated can flow, having side walls and sieves which are disposed at the ends thereof and by means of which the liquid can flow through the granule material in the interior of the through-flow cup and the granule material is substantially non-losably held.To improve such a through-flow cup to the effect that the incoming flow of liquid and at the same time any discharge flow of gases are offered the lowest possible level of resistance, it is provided in accordance with the invention that at least one sieve has a flat textile article in which plastic fibres of at least two different kinds are connected together to form a hybrid, wherein the one kind of plastic fibres contains hydrophilic components and the other kind of plastic fibres contains hydrophobic components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: BRITA Wasser-Filter-Systeme GmbH
    Inventor: Detlev Weyrauch
  • Patent number: 6009634
    Abstract: An apparatus for drying a fiber web, in which apparatus the fiber web (5) is dried between two tight bands (1, 2) moving in the same direction and turning around turning rolls (6a, 6b, 7a, 7b). The first band (1) is heated by means of a pressure chamber (9) and the second band (2) is cooled by means of a water chamber (10). The fiber web (5) is led together with at least one felt or wire (3, 4) through a drying zone defined by the bands (1, 2) in such a way that the fiber web is in contact with the surface of the first band (1) and the felt or wire (3, 4) is between the fiber web (5) and the second band (2). At least one band (1, 2) is guided by a shoe (11a, 11b) in such a way that the fiber web substantially immediately upon coming into contact with the first band (1) is exposed to the effect of the compression pressure of the pressure chamber (9).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Assignee: Valmet Corporation
    Inventor: Elias Retulainen
  • Patent number: 5978630
    Abstract: A system for removing residual contaminants from an image conditioning apparatus that removes excess liquid from a developed image made up of toner particles immersed in a liquid carrier medium on an image bearing member. The system includes a vacuum blotting device that contacts the liquid developed image and absorbs a portion of the liquid carrier and residual contaminants remain thereon. A contact member adapted to be shifted from a non-operative position spaced from the vacuum blotting device, to an operative position in contact with the vacuum blotting device operates to transfer the contaminants therefrom. A scraper removes the transferred contaminants from the contact member. The contact member is pivotally mounted about the pivot point to effect shifting of the contact member between the non-operative and the operative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Shu Chang, John F. Knapp, Lawrence Floyd, Jr., Stephen T. Chai, Robert E. Trott
  • Patent number: 5950329
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of and an apparatus for drying a fiber web, whereby the fiber web (5) is dried in a cylinder drying unit (12) and in a band drier unit (11). The cylinder drying unit (12) and the band drier unit (11) are arranged one above the other. A considerable space saving is then achieved and the building costs remain rather moderate. Simultaneously, a remarkable addition to the drying capacity is achievable by moderate investments by means of existing apparatuses, for instance. (FIG.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: Valmet Corporation
    Inventors: Jukka Lehtinen, Elias Retulainen
  • Patent number: 5933978
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of and an apparatus for drying a fiber web, whereby the fiber web is dried in a cylinder drying unit (12) and in a band drier unit (11). The fiber web (5) is led from the cylinder drying unit (12) to the band drier unit (11) in such a way that it is easy to determine a desired dry content for the fiber web (5) in the cylinder drying unit (12) when the fiber web (5) is transferred to the band drier unit (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignee: Valmet Corporation
    Inventors: Jukka Lehtinen, Elias Retulainen
  • Patent number: 5911937
    Abstract: The present invention includes processes and resulting structures for producing moisture absorbing desiccant entrained polymers. A polymer is caused to assume a molten state, typically by applying heat and melting the polymer. To achieve certain results in the hardened end product, such as rigidity and durability, the polymer normally acts as a moisture barrier in a solidified state, both before and after melting. A desiccating agent is blended into the polymer so that the desiccating agent is distributed within the polymer. A channeling agent is also blended into the polymer so that it is distributed within the polymer. Together, the polymer, desiccating agent and channeling agent create a blended mixture. The mixture is solidified so that the channeling agent forms passages in the mixture through which moisture is communicable to desiccating agent that is entrained within the mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Assignee: Capitol Specialty Plastics, Inc.
    Inventor: Ihab M. Hekal
  • Patent number: 5907908
    Abstract: A dehumidifying pouch comprising a container having a moisture-absorption compartment and a collection compartment, the moisture-absorption compartment comprising semi-permeable material that encloses a deliquescent desiccant material and an optional deodorizing material. The collection compartment comprises walls made of a moisture impervious material. The collection compartment is connected to the moisture-absorption compartment, preferably by a broken seal, so that liquids from the moisture-absorption compartment can be transferred to the collection compartment of the pouch. The semi-permeable material can comprise polyethylene or expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, individually or a combination thereof. The moisture impervious compartment can comprise either polyethylene film or polypropylene film. Alternatively, the dehumidifying pouch is comprised of one compartment having a moisture-absorption section and a moisture collection section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1999
    Assignee: Tetra Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Joaquin Paz Cunanan, David Prince Heaner, David J. Hanlon
  • Patent number: 5899002
    Abstract: The drying apparatus comprises two endless bands (1, 2) that are impermeable to air and that have a good thermal conductivity. A fibre web (5) runs between the bands (1, 2) with at least one felt or wire (3, 4). The metal band in contact with the fibre web (5) is heated with a pressure chamber (9) containing a pressure medium that is steam. Correspondingly, the metal band in contact with the felt or wire (3, 4) is cooled. The pressure chamber (9) is sealed against the first band (1) with a seal (9a). In association with the pressure chamber (9) there is a steam recovery chamber (18), where steam and condensate that escape from between the seal (9a) and the first band (1) can be recovered. The steam recovered from the steam recovery chamber (18) is supplied for further use with a means according to the arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Assignee: Valmet Corporation
    Inventors: Jukka Lehtinen, Jarmo Puumalainen, Paavo Rautakorpi
  • Patent number: 5878506
    Abstract: An arrangement in an apparatus for drying a fiber web, in which apparatus the fiber web (5) is dried between two tight bands (1, 2) moving in the same direction and turning around turning rolls (6a, 6b, 7a, 7b). The first band (1) is heated by means of a pressure chamber (9) and the second band (2) is cooled by means of a water chamber (10). The fiber web (5) is led together with at least one felt or wire (3, 4) through a drying zone formed by the bands (1, 2) in such a way that the fiber web is in contact with the surface of the first band (1) and the felt or wire (3, 4) is between the fiber web (5) and the second band (2). The arrangement comprises means for supporting the wire or wires (3, 4) in such a way that the fiber web (5) is exposed to a compression pressure by the effect of the wire or wires (3, 4) substantially immediately upon coming into contact with the first band.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Assignee: Valmet Corporation
    Inventor: Paavo Rautakorpi
  • Patent number: 5873014
    Abstract: A system for removing excess carrier liquid from an electrostatic image developed with liquid developing material made up of toner particles immersed in a liquid carrier medium on an image bearing member. The system includes an absorbent contact roller for absorbing at least a portion of the liquid carrier off of the liquid image, and vacuum source coupled to the contact roller for generating both negative pressure at the surface of the roller to draw the absorbed liquid through the contact roller, and positive air pressure for pushing contaminated liquid out of the roller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1999
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: John F. Knapp, Lawrence Floyd, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5867919
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for drying a fiber web, in which apparatus the fiber web (5) is dried between two tight bands (1, 2) moving in the same direction and turning around turning rolls (6a, 6b, 7a, 7b). The first band (1) is heated by means of a pressure chamber (9) and the second band (2) is cooled by means of a water chamber (10). The fiber web (5) is led together with at least one felt or wire (3, 4) through a drying zone formed by the bands (1, 2) in such a way that the fiber web is in contact with the surface of the first band (1) and the felt or wire (3, 4) is between the fiber web (5) and the cooled second band (2). The surface (11) of the first band (1) bearing against the fiber web (5) is at least partially formed in such a way that reflection from it to a specular reflection angle is reduced substantially. Excessive gloss can then be removed from the surface of the fiber web (5) and the end product to be manufactured of it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Assignee: Valmet Corporation
    Inventor: Elias Retulainen
  • Patent number: 5862813
    Abstract: A hair curler constituted by a full body (10) of cylindrical shape and a net member (11) removably applicable to said body (10). At least the cylindrical body is made of a material capable of being heated by immersing same in a hot liquid and of slowly releasing the heat to a lock of hair (14) to which the hair curler is applied. On the cylindrical body (10) there is formed a protuberance (13) helically extending throughout the whole length of the cylindrical body (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1999
    Inventor: Primo Bugane
  • Patent number: 5836084
    Abstract: An automated stencil dryer includes a holder mechanism for holding a stencil, a discharge mechanism for discharging air against a stencil positioned in the holder, and a driver mechanism operatively coupled to the discharge mechanism for automatically moving the discharge mechanism so that compressed air can be discharged fully across the surface of the stencil. In one embodiment, the discharge mechanism includes a pair of air knives disposed parallel to one another on opposite sides of the holder so that the stencil is between the air knives when the stencil is positioned in the holder. The air knives are oriented inward toward the stencil when the stencil is positioned in the holder so that air discharged from the air knives is directed against the stencil. In another embodiment, the discharge mechanism includes a pair of air distribution pipes disposed parallel to one another on opposite sides of the holder so that the stencil is between the distribution pipes when the stencil is positioned in the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Company
    Inventors: Robert Jackson, Wallace E. Croghan, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5832623
    Abstract: A dirt drying processing equipment is constructed so that hot air out of a hot-air generator is blown into dirt in a drying reservoir through a hot-air supply pipe having a pointed end opened to the bottom of the drying reservoir, vaporizing water contained in the dirt. Solid matter or evaporation residue of dirt is blown by hot air to a cyclone where it is separated therefrom for disposal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinichi Nagumo, Shouichi Uemura, Masaaki Saitou
  • Patent number: 5822880
    Abstract: A method and an arrangement for utilizing condensation water of an apparatus for drying a fibre web. The drying apparatus comprises two endless bands (1, 2) that are impermeable to air and that have a good thermal conductivity. A fibre web (5) runs between the bands (1, 2) with at least one felt or wire (3, 4). The metal band in contact with the fibre web (5) is heated with a pressure chamber (9) containing a pressure medium that is steam. Correspondingly, the metal band in contact with the felt is cooled. Water that has evaporated from the fibre web (5) and then condensed is gathered from the wire (4) and this condensate is made suitable for use in a power station by means of the removal of solid matter, so that the condensate can be utilized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Assignee: Valmet Corporation
    Inventor: Jarmo Puumalainen
  • Patent number: 5815943
    Abstract: A method and an arrangement for utilizing energy of an apparatus for drying a fibre web. The drying apparatus comprises two endless bands (1, 2) that are impermeable to air and that have a good thermal conductivity. A fibre web (5) runs between the bands (1, 2) with at least one felt or wire (3, 4). The metal band in contact with the fibre web (5) is heated. Correspondingly, the metal band in contact with the felt is cooled with water contained in a water chamber (10). The cooling water used is conducted to a heat exchanger (25) that is used to heat water conducted to heat the process water in a papermaking or a board machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Assignee: Valmet Corporation
    Inventor: Jarmo Puumalainen