Including Means To Monitor Or Control Operation Patents (Class 366/132)
  • Publication number: 20090092001
    Abstract: A solution making system and apparatus are described. The solution maker mixes a chemical or slurry with a solvent to a desired concentration. The concentration of the solution is monitored by one or more methods. Based upon this measurement, the concentration of the solution may be adjusted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2006
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Inventors: Clay Hildreth, Michael Hoerle, Scott Aksamit
  • Publication number: 20090027995
    Abstract: A portable feed apparatus comprising a feed container, a mixing assembly that receives a feed from said feed container, at least one feed additive assembly in flowable connection with said mixing assembly, and a controller in communication with said mixing assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2008
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Applicant: GANADO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Stephen E. BACHMAN, Michael E. HUBBERT
  • Publication number: 20090022007
    Abstract: An apparatus for dosing and mixing solid powders in technological processes for converting plastic materials, comprising an assembly for dosing the solid powders to be mixed with a first process liquid before mixing with an additional process liquid, the dosage assembly comprising at least one hydraulic cylinder for introducing the powders at a preset pressure which is correlated to the pressure of the first process liquid kept at a controlled pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventor: Loris Massarotto
  • Publication number: 20090010094
    Abstract: An object of the invention is to provide a mixer and a mixing control method that enable to keep the driving efficiency of a motor high, and to flexibly follow a predetermined rotation speed of a mixing rotor pair, which is varied depending on various applications of the mixing rotor pair. A fixed speed motor is rotated at a constant rotation speed, and a variable speed motor is variably rotated at an arbitrary rotation speed. A difference in rotation speed between the fixed speed motor and the variable speed motor is supplied to the mixing rotor pair as the rotation speed by operations of a sun gear, a planetary gear, an internal gear, and a gear retainer of a planetary gear transmission.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2006
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Applicant: Kabushiki Kaisha Kobe Seiko Sho (Kobe Steel Ltd)
    Inventor: Tatsuya Uemura
  • Publication number: 20090010096
    Abstract: A blending device for blending objects is provided. The device preferably includes a conveying module, a cleaning module, a receiving module, a blending & liquefaction module, a discharge module, and a control module. The conveying module carries objects into the receiving module. While transferring the objects, the conveying module is being rinsed and dried by the cleaning module. After the blending & liquefaction module blends and liquefies the objects in the receiving module, the discharge module discharges tile blended and liquefied objects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2008
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Inventor: Yann-Bor TWU
  • Publication number: 20090010095
    Abstract: The invention relates to an automatic device for mixing fluids, particularly paints or varnishes, that are to be sent on to one or more mixing containers (9), said device comprising a plurality of circuits (1), independent of one another, and in particular a circuit (1) for each fluid being dosed, each circuit (1) comprising a storage tank (2) for storage of the fluid, a pump (4) for taking in the fluid from said storage tank (2) and for delivery thereof into said mixing container (9), valves, pipes, and an automatic-control device, also comprised in which are a plurality of precision circuits (1?), each one of which associated in parallel to each of said circuits (1), each of said precision circuits (1?) sharing with the associated circuit (1) the same storage tank (2) and the same automatic-control device and further comprising a precision pump (4?) for taking in the fluid from said storage tank (2) and for delivery thereof into said mixing container (9), as well as valves and pipes of their own.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2007
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Applicant: DROMONT S.p.A.
    Inventors: Mario Drocco, Luca Drocco, Matteo Drocco
  • Publication number: 20080285377
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a wet-type recirculation system for particle size analysis of sample including coarse particles (hundreds to thousands ?m). According to the wet-type recirculation system of the present invention, the mixture liquid is recirculated using not a single recirculation line but two recirculation lines between the mixer and the particle size analyzer and the recirculation lines are connected with the mixer at the upper inputting part side of the mixer to discharge the mixture liquid. Further, the rotatable baffle is attached to the inside of the mixer to generate vortex in a horizontal direction as well as a vertical direction within the reservoir of the mixer and the baffle is rotated by a pressure of the mixture liquid discharged from the two recirculation lines to form vortex.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Chulwoo Rhee, Jaehwa Jin, Minjun Kim, Yikyun Kwon
  • Publication number: 20080253222
    Abstract: The present dosing and mixing machine for liquid products and its operation system is intended for dosing, mixing, and homogenizing any liquid products regardless of their nature and application, that can operate either statically or dynamically, that includes a tank (4) with a lid (10), which has an agitator (8), with an axis with helixes (14) whose height can be adjusted, constituted by a chassis (1) provided with a control device (2) with an electronic doser that is formed by a robot and some peripheral devices that allow selecting the operation modes of the machine, and incorporates a cleaning pump and a tank for smaller volume mixes (4); an in-built viscosity regulator, and a set of electronically controlled dosing pumps (5) with intakes that allow the direct suctioning from the intake tank (7).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2006
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Applicant: VALVER AIR SPEED, S.L.
    Inventor: Ricardo Verdu Alvaro
  • Publication number: 20080247265
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for the mixing or dilution of chemicals from one more sources that have been analyzed using laboratory analysis or an insitu-analyzer for concentration or molarity. The chemical is then transferred to a series of precisely calibrated vessels each of have a volume 10% of the next vessel. For example the main vessel may be 1 L in volume and the second vessel is 0.1 L in volume, the third is 0.01 L in volume and the fourth is 0.001 L in volume. The present system utilizes these two or more metered vessels which are connected to bulk chemical sources via intake lines. Each metered vessel contains an overflow tube, which drains any excess chemical by gravity flow from the metered vessel so as to adjust the chemical amount to a pre-calibrated desired level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2007
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Inventor: Daniel H. Wilcox
  • Publication number: 20080186801
    Abstract: A bubble micro-pump includes a first component, a second component and a bubble-generating unit. The first component includes a flow path having a first area and a second area. The second component above the first component has a first roughness surface and a second roughness surface. The first roughness surface opposite the first area has a first roughness factor, and the second roughness surface opposite the second area has a second roughness factor smaller than the first roughness factor. The bubble-generating unit on the first component generates bubble in the first area and the second area when a fluid fills the vacancy between the first component and the second component. Due to the difference in roughness factor, the backfilling velocity of the fluid in the first area is faster than that in the second area when the bubble starts to vanish, such that the fluid is driven to flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: QISDA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Cheng-Hsien Liu, Long Hsu, Chih-Ming Cheng, Sheng-Hung Chiu, Wai William Wang, Chung-Cheng Chou
  • Publication number: 20080144427
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for combining and mixing together a plurality of liquids to form a blend. The invention discloses reservoir supplied intermittently operated servo driven pumps, and optionally discrete liquid flow meters, and precise, encoded, fast-acting flow shut-off devices to create and define repeated time synchronized ratio defined doses of the liquids. One or more liquids, designated secondary streams, are synchronously dosed into a secondary streams injection assembly which is located generally at the suction port of the primary liquid stream dosing pump. The primary stream pump, during its synchronized intermittent operation, withdraws ratio defined primary stream and secondary stream liquids from the injection assembly. The primary stream pump serves also to propel the combined liquids ratio dosed streams into and through mixing structure on the discharge of the primary stream pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2007
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Inventor: Iver J. Phallen
  • Patent number: 7387429
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus serve for controlling a system for simultaneously producing a plurality of different product kinds of confectioneries in a plurality of product lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: Chocotech GmbH
    Inventor: Klaus Markwardt
  • Publication number: 20080130399
    Abstract: An improved draft tube spout fluid bed (DTSFB) mixing, handling, conveying, and treating apparatus and systems, and methods for operating are provided. The apparatus and systems can accept particulate material and pneumatically or hydraulically conveying the material to mix and/or treat the material. In addition to conveying apparatus, a collection and separation apparatus adapted to receive the conveyed particulate material is also provided. The collection apparatus may include an impaction plate against which the conveyed material is directed to improve mixing and/or treatment. The improved apparatus are characterized by means of controlling the operation of the pneumatic or hydraulic transfer to enhance the mixing and/or reacting by controlling the flow of fluids, for example, air, into and out of the apparatus. The disclosed apparatus may be used to mix particulate material, for example, mortar; react fluids with particulate material; coat particulate material, or simply convey particulate material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2006
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Applicant: RENSSELAER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Howard Littman, Joel L. Plawsky, John D. Paccione
  • Publication number: 20080094935
    Abstract: A modular liquid injection mixing and delivery system comprises: a mixing chamber; a first supply line for supplying a liquid diluent via a first constant flow valve and a first downstream metering orifice to the mixing chamber; at least one second supply line for supplying a liquid concentrate via a second constant flow valve and a second downstream metering orifice to the mixing chamber for combination with the liquid diluent to produce a liquid solution; and a discharge line communicating with the mixing chamber and through which the liquid solution is discharged from the mixing chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2007
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: John R. Newton, Peter J. Brooke
  • Publication number: 20080095910
    Abstract: An improved, dual-shaft preconditioner (10, 70, 102) is provided having independent drive mechanism (18, 20, 78, 80) operatively coupled with a corresponding preconditioner shaft (14, 16, 74, 76, 106, 108) and permitting selective rotation of the shafts (14, 16, 74, 76, 106, 108) at rotational speeds and directions independent of each other. Preferably, the speed differential between the shafts (14, 16, 74, 76, 106, 108) is at least about 5:1. The mechanisms (18, 20, 78, 80) are operatively coupled with a digital control device (60) to allow rotational speed and direction control. Preferably, the preconditioner (10, 70, 102) is supported on load cells (62, 100) also coupled with control device (60) to permit on-the-go changes in material retention time within the preconditioner (10, 70, 102).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2007
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Applicant: Wenger Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: LaVon Wenger, Marc Wenger, Galen J. Rokey
  • Patent number: 7363114
    Abstract: There is disclosed a system and method of formulating a batch comprising at least two chemicals. An embodiment is disclosed wherein a feedforward algorithm can be used to control the target blend. Subsequently a feedback closed loop control loop algorithm is provided for a multivariant blend. Use of this approach allows for a continuously autoreplenished and controlled blend. Also disclosed is the ability to control via feedforward and feedback algorithms a fast responding control mode that allows for the elimination of a container. This approach will allow for “one pass” blending with control. The controller implements an automated fault detection and correction system, thereby identifying necessary maintenance prior to failure. If failure does occur the signature recognition allows rapid analysis and correction thus maximizing tool availability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: Tres-Ark, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary R. Anderson, Matt Fowler
  • Patent number: 7363115
    Abstract: There is disclosed a system and method of formulating a batch comprising at least two chemicals. An embodiment is disclosed wherein a feedforward algorithm can be used to control the target blend. Subsequently a feedback closed loop control loop algorithm is provided for a multivariant blend. Use of this approach allows for a continuously autoreplenished and controlled blend. Also disclosed is the ability to control via feedforward and feedback algorithms a fast responding control mode that allows for the elimination of a container. This approach will allow for “one pass” blending with control. The controller implements an automated fault detection and correction system, thereby identifying necessary maintenance prior to failure. If failure does occur the signature recognition allows rapid analysis and correction thus maximizing tool availability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: Tres-Ark, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary R. Anderson, Matt Fowler
  • Patent number: 7357563
    Abstract: Continuous stream ratio blending of two or more liquids. Each stream flow is time synchronized to all others and turned on and off to dose precise ratios into a constant pressure streams combining chamber. Combined on-off flows constitute a net flow rate exceeding some maximum continuous flow demand for the blended liquids. Dosed streams are pumped from the streams combining chamber at a rate matching their inflow, then through a mixing element into a finished blend tank. Use of a constant pressure streams combining chamber feeding a mix pump allows decoupling of individual streams ratio dosing flows and pressures one from another and from the combined stream. Blended liquid is available on demand as a continuous stream from the level controlled finished blend tank. The level sensor automatically starts and stops blended flow into the tank. Streams flow can be stopped upon completion of any dose cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: Oden Corporation
    Inventors: Iver Phallen, David Messing, Robert Comfort
  • Publication number: 20080080300
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mixing kneader comprising at least two shafts (2,3) configured as hollow shafts, on whose surfaces kneading bars (4) are disposed on elements (5). The construction of the shafts is selected in such a way that the resonant frequencies of the shafts have a separation of at least 5% from the excitation frequencies. At least one of the shafts is preferably flowed through by a temperature-control medium, the inlet being disposed on one side and the outlet on the other side of the shaft. The mixing kneader preferably comprises at least one orifice above the shafts which is configured as a dome, the dome being closed by a displacer (22). In addition, at least one orifice for product withdrawal is provided, whose orifice cross section is adjustable during operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2005
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Applicant: BASF AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Uwe Stueven, Leo Van Miert, Dominicus van Esbroeck, Oskar Stephan, Annemarie Hillebrecht, Huanmin Wei
  • Patent number: 7344297
    Abstract: The invention is a method and apparatus for asynchronous blending and supply of chemical solutions. The method of the present invention includes a continuous blending system. This continuous blending system monitors the output and continuously adjusts the blending system to achieve a predetermined formulation of at least a first solution. A centralized monitoring system continuously evaluates the solutions and adjusts the output of the blender as needed to maintain the predetermined formulation of the solution. The system includes at least a first tank system. Any solutions that are delivered from this tank system are also continuously monitored, evaluated, and adjusted as needed by the centralized monitoring system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: Air Liquide Electronics U.S. LP
    Inventor: Karl J. Urquhart
  • Publication number: 20080035217
    Abstract: A system for mixing together a dry material and a liquid binder has a first mixing device for mixing the liquid binder with a fluid and a second mixing device for mixing the resulting mixture mixed by the first mixing device with the dry material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL HORTICULTURAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Gary Hartman, Reinerus Cornelis Wilhelmus van den Ende, Gerrit Dijkstra
  • Patent number: 7281840
    Abstract: There is disclosed a system and method of formulating a batch comprising at least two ingredients. The ingredients are admitted to a container to partially fill it. The quantities of the ingredient in the container are determined, and a ratio of a target quantity to the determined current quantity for at least one ingredient is calculated. The next quantity of that ingredient to be admitted to the admixture is calculated by multiplying the target quantity by the calculated ratio to determine a corrected quantity. The corrected quantity of the ingredient is admitted to the admixture, and a quantity of another ingredient is admitted to the admixture to adjust the proportion of ingredients to the target formulation. These steps may be repeated until the batch is completed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Assignee: Tres-Ark, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael B. Simpson, George V. Woodley, Gary R. Anderson
  • Patent number: 7277570
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for performing witness card statistical analysis using image processing techniques to quickly and efficiently generate as-sprayed performance statistics for a spray device, or spray, based upon a comprehensive analysis of as-sprayed witness card stains. Calibration and as-sprayed witness cards are scanned to produce images that are processed using image processing techniques to identify stain areas/dimensions. Calibration stain data is associated with known calibration droplet volumes and used to generate a set of calibration equations that model an observed relationship between the area of calibration stains upon a witness card and the volume of the respective fluid droplets that produced the stains. As-sprayed stain area/dimension information is processed using the developed calibration equations to approximate the volume of as-sprayed droplets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Wayne Armstrong
  • Patent number: 7147361
    Abstract: The present invention includes methods for introducing a dry material into a fluid stream in a way that ensures a predictable, highly accurate and consistent application of the material. The invention applies variable amounts of dry material regardless of whether the fluid stream flow rate is fixed or variable. The dry material is handled in dry bulk form and may be highly soluble or nearly insoluble. The dry bulk material is metered before being mixed into a slurry and injected to the fluid stream in a manner that continuously and automatically adjusts the application rate to compensate for varying fluid flow rates or chemical composition, in order to provide a precise fluid treatment level at all times. The present invention allows for the storage of large quantities of the dry process amendment as an integrated and dust-free function of the process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Wastewater Solutions, Inc
    Inventors: Randal G. Cecala, David R. Anson
  • Patent number: 7144552
    Abstract: A chemical solution preparation apparatus for preparing a chemical solution from chemical gas of an industrial chemical grade. A dissolution unit dissolves the chemical gas in pure water, which is contained in a tank. A gas discharge control unit controls the amount of chemical gas discharged from the dissolution unit. A liquid discharge discharges a predetermined amount of the chemical solution from the tank. At least one of the gas discharge control unit and the liquid discharge control unit are operated at substantially the same time as the dissolution unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Masataka Fukuizumi, Toru Matoba, Hiroshi Osuda
  • Patent number: 7144147
    Abstract: A mixing apparatus for preparing from a plurality of materials, preferably powders, in particular components of a pharmaceutical composition, a mixture having a required homogeneity, comprising a non-rotating mixing vessel (7); at least one feeding mechanism for feeding said materials into said vessel (7); a stirring means (31) inside said vessel (7) for preparing said mixture; and at least one measuring device (23) for monitoring in-line at one or more locations in said vessel (7) the homogeneity of the mixture being prepared therein, wherein said at least one measuring device (23) comprises a unit for directing input radiation into said vessel (7), and at least one detector unit (45) for detecting output radiation formed by interaction of said input radiation with said materials in said vessel (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Astrazeneca AB
    Inventors: Staffan Folestad, Mats O. Johansson
  • Patent number: 7058519
    Abstract: A process system adapted for processing of or with a material therein. The process system includes: a sampling region for the material; an infrared photometric monitor constructed and arranged to transmit infrared radiation through the sampling region and to responsively generate an output signal correlative of the material in the sampling region, based on its interaction with the infrared radiation; and process control means arranged to receive the output of the infrared photometric monitor and to responsively control one or more process conditions in and/or affecting the process system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.
    Inventor: Jose I. Arno
  • Patent number: 6979116
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for introducing a dry material into a fluid stream in a way that ensures a predictable, highly accurate and consistent application of the material. The invention applies variable amounts of dry material regardless of whether the fluid stream flow rate is fixed or variable. The dry material is handled in dry bulk form and may be highly soluble or nearly insoluble. The dry bulk material is metered before being mixed into a slurry and injected to the fluid stream in a manner that continuously and automatically adjusts the application rate to compensate for varying fluid flow rates or chemical composition, in order to provide a precise fluid treatment level at all times. The present invention is capable of storing large quantities of the dry process amendment as an integrated and dust-free function of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Wastewater Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Randal G. Cecala, David R. Anson
  • Patent number: 6887284
    Abstract: A system and process for improving the combustion of fuel oil in boilers employs: (1) dual homogenization of fuel oil and water; (2) recovery of heat from, and injection of, boiler waste water in the homogenization system; (3) mixing of urea and boiler waste water and injection into the boiler exhaust gases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventor: Dannie B. Hudson
  • Patent number: 6837609
    Abstract: A soil modifying apparatus capable of making accurate production management and controlling a mixture ratio with excellent precision is provided. For this purpose, the apparatus includes target processing amount setting means (21) for a raw soil material, actual raw soil material amount detecting means (12), actual raw soil material amount calculating means (47a), raw soil material feeder speed detecting means (16), predicted raw soil material amount calculating means (43) for calculating a predicted supply amount per hour of the raw soil material, first comparing means (48) for comparing the actual processing amount per hour of the raw soil material, and the predicted supply amount, and raw soil material feeder speed correcting means (25) for correcting a target value of the raw soil material feeder speed based on a comparison result of the first comparing means to control the speed of the raw soil material feeder (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Kamoshida, Yasuhiro Yoshida
  • Patent number: 6811300
    Abstract: A rotational speed controller for mixing equipment of a soil modifying machine, by which optional quality of modified soil can be obtained, is provided. To this end, the rotational speed controller includes a mixer (127, 147) rotating to mix soil to be modified, drive means (127b, 147b) for rotationally driving the mixer, speed control means (127p, 147p) for controlling rotational speed of the drive means based on an inputted rotational speed command value (S127, S147), working mode setting means (8) for outputting a working mode signal (H, M, L, S) for setting a kind of soil to be modified, and a controller (106) for outputting the rotational speed command value corresponding to the working mode signal to the speed control means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Kamoshida, Yasuhiro Yoshida, Taneaki Fujino, Katsuhiro Ikegami
  • Publication number: 20040178153
    Abstract: An adjustable contaminated mixing apparatus includes a reactor head and a down tube extending from the reactor head. A plurality of ports are formed in the reactor head and configured to impart a spinning motion to the contaminated liquid as it passes from the reactor head into the down tube. Each port is adapted to receive a flow restrictor to permit selectively control of velocity and flow volume of the liquid through the down tube. Typically, the flow restrictors are removable flow restriction plugs inserted into in a removable cartridge of the reactor head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Publication date: September 16, 2004
    Inventors: Dwain E. Morse, Wade O. Morse, Thomas G. Matherly
  • Patent number: 6749818
    Abstract: A cost effective solution preparing apparatus includes a chamber which is divided into two compartments by a movable partition; a dissolving solution supply line for supplying a dissolving solution to the first compartment of the chamber; a solution tank connected with the first compartment and the second compartment through a first solution preparing line and through a second solution preparing line, respectively; a transporting pump provided in the second solution preparing line; a concentration meter; a solution transporting line for transporting the solution prepared and filled in the second compartment to a point of use; and a circulating line, in which the solution tank is exemplified as a U-shape tank constructed of a relatively small-diameter upstream tank portion and a relatively large-diameter downstream tank portion, and at least one filter is provided in a downstream portion of the downstream tank portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Nipro Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshihiko Sano, Hidetoshi Saio
  • Patent number: 6719452
    Abstract: A rapid process for making transparent tints that match the color and tinting strength of a standard tint. The process involves the use of a faster and more accurate shading technique that utilizes the light transmittance properties of the tints in the wet over the visible spectrum and calculates therefrom the amount of components required to bring the tint within an acceptable match to the standard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company
    Inventors: Ken Stephen Schermacher, Allan Blase Joseph Rodrigues, Anthony Joseph Martino, Douglas E. Spahr, Timothy Aaron Snyder
  • Patent number: 6592246
    Abstract: A method and installation for forming and maintaining a slurry are disclosed. The method withdraws a slurry from a reservoir and directs it at a heap of solid material from which the slurry is drained into the reservoir, the slurry containing additional solid material from the heap to increase its specific gravity. The volume of slurry in the reservoir and its specific gravity are controlled. The installation comprises a support having a support surface which slopes to permit slurry to drain therefrom A reservoir receives slurry draining from the support and has a liquid feed. A pump withdraws the slurry from the reservoir and pumps it to a spray nozzle for spraying slurry at a heap of material on the support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: CSIR
    Inventor: Johannes Phillippus Maree
  • Patent number: 6572255
    Abstract: A physically compact (saline) solution preparation apparatus includes a solution mixing tank coupled to sources of concentrate and diluent. A concentrate transport path is configured to both homogenize and deliver concentrate to the mixing tank, while the diluent transport path is controllably purged of potential contaminates prior to supplying the diluent to the mixing tank. A mixed solution transport path recirculates and thereby homogenizes the contents of the mixing container, and actively pumps out solution that has been mixed to a prescribed conductivity-based concentration, to one or more solution on demand storage reservoirs for respective instruments. The operation of the apparatus is based upon measured conductivity of the contents of the solution mixing tank, so that there is no need to conduct precursor volumetric measurements of either diluent or concentrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Coulter International Corp.
    Inventor: Frederick K. Husher
  • Patent number: 6572262
    Abstract: A method of densifying a bulk particulate material includes at least partially confining the bulk particulate material, and rotating a rotatable member submerged under the bulk particulate material about an axis of rotation to cause movement of the material particles essentially towards or away from the axis or rotation, thereby to provide a densified bulk particulate material. The method is particularly suitable for densifying silica fume. The invention extends to apparatus for densifying a bulk particulate material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Elkem Asa
    Inventor: Kevan Vaughan Russel-Smith
  • Patent number: 6564700
    Abstract: A stream (A) of first foodstuff has a first pH and a stream (B) of second foodstuff has second pH. The first pH and second pH are oppositely related to a third or target pH for the foodstuff such that one pH level is above the target level while the other pH level is below the target level. The two streams (A) and (B) are combined in a proportion to produce a combined or third foodstuff at the target pH. One or both of the first pH and second pH are sensed or otherwise determined, preferably on a continuous basis, and then these pH values are used to determine the proportion at which the stream of first foodstuff and stream of second foodstuff are combined and mixed. Particularly, the pH modification can be loosely controlled to produce an over-modification in the first foodstuff and then the stream (B) of second foodstuff may be combined with the stream (A) first foodstuff to produce a stream (C) of material having the target pH.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: Freezing Machines, Inc.
    Inventor: Eldon Roth
  • Publication number: 20030076736
    Abstract: Systems and methods for weighing and charging components of a product using a radio-frequency order picking and inventory control system (ROPICS) are disclosed. A system according to the invention can include a server computer having a back-end database for storing inventory data, a client computer that is communicatively coupled to the server computer via a communications network, and a scale for providing to the client computer a weight signal that represents an actual weight of a component on the scale. The server computer includes a data queue for receiving and managing database transaction requests in real-time, and a transaction server for receiving the database transaction requests from the data queue and for interfacing with back-end database to process the received database transaction requests in real-time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Dana Buker, Stephen R. Brazzell
  • Patent number: 6533449
    Abstract: An apparatus and process for the continuous preparation of a mixture of two or more fluids, such as paints, enamels and dyes, to produce a resulting fluid having desired pre-defined physical properties, such as a particular color, opacity, hue, saturation, luminosity, density and/or viscosity, with automatic adjustment of the physical characteristics of the resulting fluid mixture. The apparatus comprises storage devices, a mixer, a fluid supply device, a detector, and a control device. The control device is adapted to receive a signal from the detector, the signal representing the detected physical characteristic of a fluid supplied by the fluid supply device, and to compare the detected physical characteristic with a desired physical characteristic of the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Renner Herrmann S.A.
    Inventor: Rogerio Batista Auad
  • Patent number: 6494608
    Abstract: A system which continuously automatically produces paint, particularly for automotive applications, includes tanks of raw materials which are constructed to supply resins, paint concentrates, paint additives, and paint solvents in a fully automated and continuous matter, which results in the production of paints substantially without manual intervention. The system includes a main circulation system which receives the metered dosages of raw materials automatically, collects the raw materials in mixing tanks and which includes outlet pipes which direct the mixture towards a main mixer. The paint is directed to a storage tank, with a portion of the paint being diverted to a control cell which samples the paint and analyzes it and derives from it parametric information which is compared to prestored criteria and which serves to adjust the properties of the ultimately obtained paint as to color, coverage and viscosity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Renner du Pont Tintas Automotives e Industriais S/A
    Inventors: Antonio Retamal, Rogério Batista Auad
  • Publication number: 20020154567
    Abstract: A physically compact (saline) solution preparation apparatus includes a solution mixing tank coupled to sources of concentrate and diluent. A concentrate transport path is configured to both homogenize and deliver concentrate to the mixing tank, while the diluent transport path is controllably purged of potential contaminates prior to supplying the diluent to the mixing tank. A mixed solution transport path recirculates and thereby homogenizes the contents of the mixing container, and actively pumps out solution that has been mixed to a prescribed conductivity-based concentration, to one or more solution on demand storage reservoirs for respective instruments. The operation of the apparatus is based upon measured conductivity of the contents of the solution mixing tank, so that there is no need to conduct precursor volumetric measurements of either diluent or concentrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2001
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Inventor: Frederick K. Husher
  • Patent number: 6290383
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for processing material having a chamber (100), a rotatably driven shaft (104) extending within the chamber to which is attached at least one element (110) which engages the material (102) in the chamber during rotation thereof and a drive mechanism (150, 170, 200 and 250) for rotating the driven shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: Processall, Inc.
    Inventor: Albert J. Shohet
  • Patent number: 6285453
    Abstract: An on-line color monitoring and control system and method includes feeding of colorant in a given amount or ratio in order to achieve a desired color of a product. The system and method described here achieve reliable on-line color control of synthetic fibers, single moving yarn (or fiber) or a collection of moving fibers. The color characteristic of the product is sensed and processed to generate a control signal for adjusting the amount of colorant being fed. Color measurement takes place either prior to or after spooling of the product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Prisma Fibers, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Smith
  • Patent number: 6280075
    Abstract: Storage containers (4, 14) located in a first supply station (1) are provided for mixed constituents which are characteristic of a first product. Outflow lines (8, 18) which can be closed run out of the storage containers (4, 14) via first closing devices (61, 62). A second set of storage containers (24, 34) located in a second supply station (2) are provided for mixed constituents which are characteristic of an additional product. Second outflow lines (48, 58, 68) which can be closed run out of the second set of storage containers (24, 34) via second closing devices (63, 70). Storage containers (44, 54, 64) located in the third supply station (3) are provided for mixed constituents which are available in both products to be produced. Outflow lines (48, 58, 68) are permanently open when the system is in operation. The first outflow lines (8, 18) communicate with the outflow lines (48, 58, 68) of the third supply station (3) via a transport line (20) having a stop valve (21).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: Angelo Cadeo and Miteco AG
    Inventor: Angelo Cadeo
  • Patent number: 6270246
    Abstract: The present invention provides improved apparatus and process for the dilution and delivery of both high-purity chemicals as well as slurry chemicals from one or more bulk sources to an end-user. The present system utilizes two or more metered vessels which are connected to bulk chemical sources via intake lines. Each metered vessel contains an adjustable, swingable angle pipe, which drains any excess chemical by gravity flow from the metered vessel so as to adjust the chemical amount to a predetermined desired level. As the chemicals exit the angle pipes, sensors located at the end of the angle pipes sense the chemical being discharged and trigger the feed pump and valve to shut off, whereby the excess chemicals will continue to drain out until the chemical levels reach the same level as the vent port of the pipe attached to the metered vessels. The chemicals are drawn into the metered vessels from the bulk sources via a feed pump or pressure mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Inventor: Leon M. Han
  • Patent number: 6267496
    Abstract: A beverage supply apparatus for placement atop a beverage dispenser bowl comprises a housing, a mounting flange and a hopper within the housing for storing dry beverage powder mix. The hopper holds a quantity of powder beverage mix and dispenses powder mix from the hopper through an outlet. A whipping chamber disposed between and in communication with the hopper outlet and the bowl has a mechanical impeller contained therein. A water supply line is in selective communication with the whipping chamber via a water control valve. A probe measures the quantity of mixed beverage in the bowl, where a control circuit automatically activates the hopper agitator, opens the water control valve and activates the mechanical impeller in the whipping chamber when sensing a quantity of mixed beverage in the bowl below a predetermined quantity. The mix and water is substantially completely mixed into a homogenous beverage mixture having a predetermined consistency prior to passage of the beverage mixture to the bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Inventor: Bryan Real
  • Patent number: 6224252
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and process for blending high purity chemicals to produce a high purity chemical mixture with circulation, purification and sensing of said chemical mixture between blending of said high purity chemicals and storage of said high purity chemicals for use, ultimately to produce a high purity chemical mixture for on-site use in treating semiconductor materials, such as at a semiconductor fabrication facility that processes silicon wafers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: James Platt Munroe, Richard Linton Samsal, Bruce Herman Greenawald
  • Patent number: 6190461
    Abstract: An eductor-mixer has a first inlet which receives dry particulate sugar from a sugar feed system and has a second inlet which receives a pressurized working liquid adapted to mix with the dry particulate sugar to form a liquified sugar solution. The eductor-mixer also has a discharge adapted for discharging the liquified sugar solution. A tank system receives the solution discharged from the eductor-mixer. A working fluid circuit conducts pressurized working fluid to the second inlet of the eductor-mixer and includes a solution recycle line for conducting solution from the tank system to the second inlet of the eductor-mixer, and a water supply line for adding water to the solution conducted to the second inlet of the eductor-mixer. A heater adds heat to the system to increase the temperature of the solution to a temperature at or above a specified temperature. A measuring device measures the sugar content of liquified sugar solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Semi-Bulk Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles S. Alack
  • Patent number: 6130752
    Abstract: An on-line color monitoring and control system and method includes feeding of colorant in a given amount or ratio in order to achieve a desired color of a product. The system and method described here achieve reliable on-line color control of synthetic fibers, single moving yarn (or fiber) or a collection of moving fibers. The color characteristic of the product is sensed and processed to generate a control signal for adjusting the amount of colorant being fed. Color measurement takes place either prior to or after spooling of the product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: Prisma Fibers, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Smith