Including Means To Monitor Or Control Operation Patents (Class 366/132)
  • Patent number: 5961845
    Abstract: A dispenser system for treating water containing systems in place with a dry chemical substance. The dispenser has a water soluble pouch housing a dry form of a chemical material to be used in treating the system. The pouch is positioned in a make down unit so that the chemical is dissolved to form a liquid concentrate which is then introduced into a water containing system. A controller is attached to the make down unit to regulate the flow of water into the apparatus and the flow of liquid concentrate out of the apparatus and into the water containing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: Diversey Lever, Inc.
    Inventors: James Victor List, Lyle Hermen Steimel, Scott Winthrop Veil, Ed Bowden, Holger Frank Schwab, James Charles Bricker
  • Patent number: 5918976
    Abstract: Disclosed is a process for forming a compound by mixing at least two components, which comprises the steps of:circulating a specific component along a circulation route; andmixing the specific component with a second component different from the specific component by flowing the second component different from the specific component in the middle of the circulation route under specific mixing conditions to form a compound during circulation,wherein the mixing conditions are controlled so that the mixing conditions are changed accompanied with increase in a formation amount of the compound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Assignees: Konica Corporation, Konica Chemical Corporation
    Inventors: Katuya Hashimoto, Toshiyuki Hagiwara, Masami Akiyama, Kunihisa Tabuchi, Nobuhiko Sano
  • Patent number: 5913602
    Abstract: An apparatus and method of continually mixing material in a handling system wherein one delivers first material at a first delivery rate to a mixer and a second material at a second delivery rate to the mixer to allow the mixer to mix the first material and the second material to form a mixture of material. While the mixer is mixing the first and second materials, it continually delivers a mixture of material by use of a control unit that maintains the mixer discharge rate equal to the summation of the first delivery rate and the second delivery rate so that the mixer can continually maintain and mix the first material with the second material while delivering a mixture of material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Assignee: Dynamic Air Inc.
    Inventor: James R. Steele
  • Patent number: 5874049
    Abstract: A chemical mixing system for mixing ingredients at desired concentrations concentration within a qualification range. Batches of the mixed chemical are mixed in a relatively small mix vessel and transferred to a relatively large mix drum. The concentration of the chemical within the mix drum is measured by a concentration monitor. If the measured concentration of the chemical in the mix drum is within the qualification range, the batches of chemical in the mix vessel are mixed to the desired concentration. If the measured concentration of the chemical in the mix drum is below the qualification range, the batches of chemical in the mix vessel are mixed to a high concentration which is greater than the desired concentration. If the measured concentration of the chemical in the mix drum is above the qualification range, the batches of chemical in the mix vessel are mixed to a low concentration which is less than the desired concentration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1999
    Assignee: Applied Chemical Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward T. Ferri, Jr., J. Tobin Geatz, Randall L. Green
  • Patent number: 5823669
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for continuously and accurately blending a plurality of diverse, normally gaseous or volatile liquid components, preferably two or three, at low pressures. In a preferred embodiment, and apparatus blends a first stream of volatile liquid component, preferably carbon dioxide with a liquid stream of any suitable hydrocarbon (including halogenated hydrocarbons) blowing agent in accordance with any predetermined ratio desired by those skilled in the art before introducing the blend into a suitable extrusion process for preparation of polymeric foams and the like. The apparatus combines the liquid components at a pressure substantially higher than the elevated pressure required during the extrusion process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Assignee: Lolco Packaging Corp.
    Inventor: Clifford Jones
  • Patent number: 5814362
    Abstract: In a method and an apparatus for refining chocolate mass within a trough, the trough contains at least one trough compartment wherein the chocolate mass is treated or conched. After entering the trough and after begin of operation of the machine, at least one additive, such as fat (cocoa butter), is added at a certain moment. Addition of the at least one additive is done into one compartment of the continuously operated conching machine. The composition of the chocolate mass is monitored after adding the additives by means of a spectrometer. An output signal of the spectrometer is used to control the added amount of the respective additive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1998
    Assignee: Richard Frisse GmbH
    Inventor: Kurt Muntener
  • Patent number: 5810473
    Abstract: A method for treating liquid stored in a tank includes the steps of installing a liquid jetting device having a nozzle in a tank, providing the device with separate power sources for swinging the nozzle in the vertical and horizontal directions, jetting liquid from the nozzle at high pressure, monitoring the jetting of liquid from outside the tank, and controlling the power sources from outside the tank. The liquid jetting device used in the method includes a frame mounted on the tank, a casing provided to be swingable inside the frame, a first shaft extending laterally inside the casing, a jet nozzle for jetting liquid provided to be swingable by the first shaft in a direction perpendicular to the swinging direction of the casing, a first power source for swinging the casing, a second power source for swinging the jet nozzle in the direction perpendicular to the swinging direction of the casing, and means enabling the driving of the first and second power sources to be controlled from outside the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Assignee: Taiho Industries Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Nobuyuki Manabe, Takahiro Goto
  • Patent number: 5801052
    Abstract: An apparatus for reconstituting dried bacteria includes a first reservoir for the storage of reconstituting solution, a pump via which the reservoir is coupled to one of a pair of hollow needles arranged side by side in operative association with an apparatus for raising or lowering the pair so that in use they can be lowered to pierce a closure bung of a container in which bacteria are sealed under vacuum, the one needle being effectively longer than the other of the two hollow needles so that consequent upon lowering of the pair, the one needle passes through the bung before the other effectively shorter of the two needles. The shorter of the two needles is coupled to a second reservoir for the transfer thereto, in use of the apparatus, of reconstitution solution from the first reservoir together with bacteria from the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Assignees: Siemens plc, Yorkshire Water plc, Microbics Corporation
    Inventors: William Bartlett-Hooker, Sanath Ediriweera, Stuart Ward
  • Patent number: 5727877
    Abstract: A main line for delivering a medical solution is connected at one end to a source of liquid. A secondary line is connected at two locations to the main line, bypassing a portion of the main line. A reservoir containing a particulate product is located in the secondary line. During a priming step, liquid is pumped to the reservoir in order to pressurize the reservoir and fill the reservoir to sufficiently immerse the particulate product. This priming step prevents the formation of agglomerates and preferential paths through particulate product. After the reservoir is primed, a fraction of liquid flowing through the main line is diverted into the reservoir and then routed back to the main line to introduce a solution of liquid and particulate product into the main line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1998
    Assignee: Hospal Industrie
    Inventors: Jacques Chevallet, Jacques Burtin, Jacques Gauckler
  • Patent number: 5674005
    Abstract: An apparatus for mixing livestock feed including a feed mixer having a filling opening and a discharge opening, a feed mixing mechanism located within the feed mixer, and a plurality of feed ingredient supply mechanisms for supplying feed ingredients. The plurality of feed ingredient supply mechanism coupled to the feed mixer via a conveyor mechanism. Each feed ingredient supply mechanism having an output and a control mechanism, each control mechanism being attached to each feed ingredient supply mechanism at the output. An electronic scale having an electronic output, the scale attached to the feed mixer. A mixed feed discharge mechanism for discharging mixed feed, the discharge mechanism attached to the feed mixer discharge opening. A programmable logic control mechanism having an information input and a plurality of command outputs, the programmable logic control mechanism programmed to independently open each control mechanism and close each control mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1997
    Inventors: Allen E. Corey, William R. Berghius, Thomas D. Steppert, Richard Donald Seidl
  • Patent number: 5642939
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for unloading a fine powder-like pulverulent material from bags and mixing it with a liquid carrier in preparation for its use, while at the same time minimizing the potential for liberation of the particulate into the environmental air. Very finely particulate or flour-like pulverulent material is transferred by dumping it into a hopper. The pulverulent material is then mixed with a liquid carrier by a venturi that is located within a valve controlled, pump energized liquid circulation conduit system having connection with a supply vessel to circulate the mixture within the circulation vessel and supply vessel and thereby maintain an efficient liquid/pulverulent mixture that it is readily available for use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 1, 1997
    Inventor: Mathis P. Comardo
  • Patent number: 5578201
    Abstract: A reusable apparatus for multiphase, multistage countercurrent liquid separation is presented. The apparatus is particular useful in progressive multistage separation of target microorganisms from background organisms and materials with precise transfer, air exclusion, homogeneous mixing, isolation from the ambient atmosphere, in the absence of valves and at ow cost. The structure has at least one chamber in which a piston-like sliding bottom is sealingly moved or braked and includes internal structure for mixing, preferably a magnetic-stainless steel ball which can be reciprocated from the outside to mix the liquid contents. Motion of the bottom is limited by stops. A number of ways to actuate the apparatus are taught.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Assignee: E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company
    Inventors: Charles F. Collier, Brian A. Deane, William E. Feathers, Robert A. King, Alexander D. Kopatsis, Thomas P. Ladisch, Peter M. Mrozinski, Norman P. Pih
  • Patent number: 5573333
    Abstract: A system for delivering a proper proportion of water and starch to form a slurry on a continuous basis responsive to the rate required for the production of gypsum board has a water input controller and a starch input controller to control the rate of water and starch input to a mix/hold tank and a starch slurry output controller to control the output of slurry from the mix/hold tank to the gypsum board production line. A programmable logic controller monitors the output rate and density of the delivered slurry, compares them to a target value and signals the input controllers and/or the output controller to adjust the input and output rates accordingly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Assignee: National Gypsum Company
    Inventor: Donald P. Dahlman
  • Patent number: 5564329
    Abstract: A specified-quantity supply apparatus of the invention transfers a specified amount of a cooking material. The apparatus is formed of a material stocker for retaining the cooking material therein, a pair of blade rollers disposed in the material stocker to be parallel to each other, and a screw disposed below the blade rollers and rotating around a shaft extending parallel to shafts of the blade rollers to transfer the cooking material falling from the blade rollers toward a discharge port. A material detection sensor may be disposed above the screw to detect the cooking material on the screw, and a rotational speed of the blade rollers may be controlled based on a detection result of the material detection sensor. A control device may control rotation of the blade rollers for a specified period of time after number of rotation of the screw reaches a set value. Thus, a required amount of the cooking material is constantly supplied on the screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Assignee: Fuji Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kazunari Tomimatsu
  • Patent number: 5537914
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for improving quality and increasing syrup yield within a beverage blending system. The apparatus and the associated method are adaptable to existing proportioning and blending systems or the appropriate control and measurement equipment may be installed alone to provide a highly accurate control of the blend. This control is a function of the mass flow of at least one of the components input to the proportioner. From this mass flow determination an adjusted volumetric flow value for the component(s) is determined. The ratio of the volumetric flow of the water to the syrup is used to determine a signal to control the proportional blending. Adjustment of the blend ratio is made by comparing the calculated ratio to the set beverage values. Control of the carbonation of the system is also incorporated as well as a device to fully saturate the CO.sub.2 into the liquid flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1996
    Assignee: Micro-Blend, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael W. Gibney, Lawrence M. Lucas, Roy Culver, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5502685
    Abstract: The invention provides a chemical mixture device that avoids the mixing of large batches of chemicals and provides a continuous and precisely mixed mixture. For mixing water and a chemical, a large water tank and a chemical tank supply water and chemicals to first and second mixing tanks. As small batches are mixed in one mixing tank, the mixture is drawn from the other mixing tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Assignee: FMC Corporation
    Inventor: Franklin P. Orlando
  • Patent number: 5466064
    Abstract: A homogenization apparatus for intermixing insoluble components, such as fuel oil and water, comprising a first compensating valve and homogenizing orifice where initial intermixing of the two components occurs, pump means, a high pressure chamber, and a second compensating valve and homogenizing orifice where secondary mixing occurs. The first compensating valve adjusts the first orifice responsive to downstream pressure, while the second compensating valve adjusts the second orifice responsive to upstream pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1995
    Assignee: ENRJ Ltd.
    Inventor: Dannie B. Hudson
  • Patent number: 5460446
    Abstract: A device for preparing a solution for medical use from a liquid and at least one powdered or crystallized salt, comprising:a main line (11) having a first end connected to a source (10) of liquid and a second end for delivering the solution,at least one secondary line (15, 19; 16, 20) joined as a by-pass to the main line (11), this secondary line comprising a reservoir (13, 14) containing a powdered or crystallized salt and having an inlet opening and an outlet opening situated respectively at a high point and a low point of the reservoir (13, 14),means (12, 21, 22) for causing liquid to circulate in the lines,means (17, 21; 18, 22) for producing the immersion of the powdered or crystallized salt in the reservoir (13, 14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Assignee: Hospal Industrie
    Inventors: Jacques Chevallet, Jacques Burtin, Jacques Gauckler
  • Patent number: 5423607
    Abstract: A blending apparatus for continuously and accurately blending a plurality of diverse, normally gaseous or volatile liquid components, preferably two or three, at low pressures. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus blends a first stream of volatile liquid component, preferably carbon dioxide with a liquid stream of any suitable hydrocarbon (including halogenated hydrocarbons) blowing agent in accordance with any predetermined ratio desired by those skilled in the art before introducing the blend into a suitable extrusion process for preparation of polymeric foams and the like. The apparatus combines the liquid components at a pressure substantially lower than the elevated pressure required during the extrusion process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1995
    Assignee: Dolco Packaging Corp.
    Inventors: Clifford Jones, John L. Baker
  • Patent number: 5403089
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods and apparatus for effectively proportionating a mixture of compressible and non-compressible fluids and in particular, the present invention is directed to apparatus and methods for forming a coating composition mixture containing a substantially accurate proportionated amount of at least one supercritical fluid used as a viscosity reduction diluent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 4, 1995
    Assignee: Union Carbide Chemicals & Plastics Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Alex C. Kuo, Kenneth A. Nielsen, James A. Condron, Kenneth L. Hoy
  • Patent number: 5382326
    Abstract: Laboratory equipment for practicing experiments and mixing ozone with medium consistency cellulosic pulp allows precise control of the timing and amount of ozone injected into the mixer, providing a method of testing that is more accurate than prior methods. An injection cylinder and fluidizing laboratory mixer are utilized. Pulp is fed into the mixer, the cylinder is charged with a known predetermined amount of ozone containing gas, the ozone containing gas is injected from the cylinder into the mixer, the mixer is operated to effect mixing of the ozone containing gas with the pulp for a predetermined period of time, and then gas containing residual ozone (which has not reacted with the pulp) from the mixer is vented from the mixer, including by utilizing a purge gas such as nitrogen. The ozone is created by an ozone generator which continuously operates. A three-way valve directs the output of the ozone generator to an ozone destruction device when the ozone is not being charged into the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1995
    Assignee: Kamyr, Inc.
    Inventors: Ryszard Szopinski, Vincent Fragassi
  • Patent number: 5340210
    Abstract: An apparatus for mixing or blending chemicals includes a dedicated pump for each type of chemical to be blended, such as one pump for water-based chemicals and another pump for oil-based chemicals. Each pump preferably operates in a fast speed when delivering the majority of a particular chemical into a vending vat. When the desired amount of a chemical has almost been pumped into the vat, the pump switches to a slower speed to add the remaining amount. Then, the pump is reversed to clear the chemical from the line so that another similarly based chemical can be pumped through the line into the vat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1994
    Assignee: Nalco Chemical Company
    Inventors: Mayur Patel, Michael T. Phillips, Gary L. Cooper, Daniel Emmons
  • Patent number: 5332309
    Abstract: A mixing head for thoroughly mixing and uniformly dispersing a dry filler material within a single liquid or a reactive mix. Dry filler is supplied to the compression chamber of the mixing head. A compression auger is mounted in the compression head is driven by a first drive shaft and compresses the dry filler. The speed of rotation of the compression auger is altered in response to the relative pressure of the dry filler within the compression chamber as measured by a pressure sensor. Air expelled from the compressive dry filler is removed through a port in the compression chamber. The compressed dry filler is conveyed to the mixing chamber of the mixing head. The mixing element is rotatively mounted within the mixing chamber for thoroughly mixing the dry filler with the liquid components. The mixing element is driven by a second drive shaft and can be driven in an opposite direction of rotation from the compression auger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 26, 1994
    Assignee: Edge-Sweets Company
    Inventors: Dario J. Ramazzotti, Ronald J. Ranalli, David N. Deboer
  • Patent number: 5303999
    Abstract: Apparatus which controls recycled asphalt production rate, emissions, mix and output temperature in an asphalt mixer. Computer flow charts show control decisions based upon measured parameters which include drum slope, drum RPM, gas volume into the drum, gas volume out of the drum, drum inlet gas temperature, drum outlet gas temperature, hydrocarbons in the exhaust, and recycled asphalt outlet temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1994
    Assignee: Cyclean, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert H. Nath, John Wiley, Robert Erickson, Carl R. Hutchison, Mike Miles
  • Patent number: 5304001
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods and apparatus for effectively proportionating a mixture of compressible and non-compressible fluids and in particular, the present invention is directed to apparatus and methods for forming a coating composition mixture containing a substantially accurate proportionated amount of at least one supercritical fluid used as a viscosity reduction diluent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1994
    Assignee: Union Carbide Chemicals and Plastics Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Alex C. Kuo, Kenneth A. Nielsen, James A. Condron, Kenneth L. Hoy
  • Patent number: 5288028
    Abstract: Apparatus for enhancing the feeding of particles includes a hopper having a central axis, walls of the hopper being concentric with the hopper axis above an outlet of the hopper; a sensor for sensing a desired flow of particles from the hopper; a shaft rotatably mounted on the hopper axis; a paddle connected to the shaft and extending from approximately 0.125 inch to approximately 0.250 inch from at least a lower portion of an inside surface wall of the hopper, the shaft being rotated at approximately 1 radian per second in response to a drive signal; the drive signal being momentarily activated in the presence of an external activate signal when the flow of particles falls below the desired rate, the drive signal being active for a period of time sufficient to cause the paddle to move through an angle of about 90.degree. about the hopper axis. The paddle is mechanically agitated during feeding of the particles, the paddle vibrating only during activation of the external signal, with a displacement of from 0.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 22, 1994
    Assignee: Alpheus Cleaning Technologies Corp.
    Inventors: Philip Spivak, Alan E. Opel
  • Patent number: 5284296
    Abstract: A system for spraying ceramic coatings on surfaces in contact with molten metals in which a constant amount of slurry made from water and ceramic powder is supplied to a pump and a hose for applying the slurry to the surface to be coated. Activation of an air valve delivers air to the hose at a sufficient pressure to spray the slurry on the surface to be coated. Deactivation of the air valve shuts off the pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 8, 1994
    Assignee: Magneco/Metrel, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy L. Connors, Mohammed Ismail, Madjid Soofi
  • Patent number: 5275484
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) with a central shaft (32) equipped with single or multiple-mixing elements (36) projecting perpendicularly from the shaft. Multiple processing zones (14-18) have adjustable openings (24) for introducing the product through adjacent processing zones for thermal treatment or conducting thermal reactions. A heating or cooling jackets (63 and 129) permits thermal control of the processing within the chamber. Additional thermal treatment can be achieved with micro-wave, infrared, hot gas or other available heating or cooling sources. The chamber is closed during vacuum or pressure processing by using rotary locks or double valving. A controlled dwell time in the chamber is accomplished with the adjustment of the opening of the weirs. The rotational velocity of the elements plays a major role in maintaining the material in the desired processing zone or causing advancement between adjacent zones.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 4, 1994
    Assignee: Processall, Inc.
    Inventor: Albert J. Shohet
  • Patent number: 5261743
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for mixing plastic materials having different densities to supply a substantially uniform quantity of the mixture of such materials to an extruder or other processing machine. The mixture of materials is fed forcibly from the mixer to the processing machine by a variable speed auger. The mixture exerts a reactive force on the auger commensurate with the bulk density of the mixture. A sensor detects variations in the reactive force and produces signals which adjust the rate of rotation of the auger in inverse relation to the variations in the bulk density of the mixture to maintain the quantity of the mixture discharged from the mixer per unit of time within a selected range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1993
    Assignee: Hydreclaim Corporation
    Inventor: Richard W. Moller
  • Patent number: 5261741
    Abstract: Malfunctions of plunger (15) in the mixhead (10) of a system for mixing a plurality of fluids such as polyol and isocyanate for the manufacture of polyurethane foam, which plunger induces variations in fluid pressures as the mixhead operates, are monitored by a method that includes the steps of measuring the upstream pressure of at least one fluid and generating a signal responsive thereto, and comparing the pressure responsive signal to a preselected pressure responsive signal and generating an alarm if the pressure responsive signal comparison falls outside preselected limits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1993
    Assignee: The Dow Chemical Company
    Inventor: Alan Hladis
  • Patent number: 5240324
    Abstract: A system for combining, mixing, and further processing ingredients to produce a specified weight of a composition in accordance with a specified recipe. The ingredients are discharged from hoppers into a central conveyor. Each hopper operates under control of a hopper controller that regulates the discharge rate and controls refilling of its associated hopper. The ingredients are mixed in the central conveyor as they are transferred to a processing device, such as a mill or roaster, and then discharged from the processing device into a network of conveyors for transfer to another location for further handling. The system operates under the control of a central controller which regulates the discharge rates of the various ingredients to optimize the feedrate to the processing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1993
    Assignee: Bluffton AGRI/Industrial Corp.
    Inventors: Donald G. Phillips, Garold W. Pfeifer, Michael E. Zeedyk, Johann G. Hasslbeck
  • Patent number: 5193594
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for measured injection of additives into oil products and the like, in particular aims at the filling of fuel in tank farms for transport by tank trucks. Each batch of fuel shall have a pre-set proportion of additive. After each terminated filling and successively at a number larger than one, there is recorded a signal (S6) which represents discrepancies between actually supplied amount of additive and the amount which corresponds to the pre-set proportion. From the first signal (S6) there is calculated a further signal (S7) which represents discrepancies throughout said number of fillings and this further signal serves as a reference or correction value during the subsequent filling operation. A particular supply conduit (10) for fuel is adapted to give a through flow of fuel in order to remove remaining amounts of additive from the measuring system itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1993
    Assignee: Norapp-Jon H. Andresen
    Inventors: Leif A. Johansson, Tom M. Jacobsen
  • Patent number: 5191537
    Abstract: An improved system and method for effectively controlling the operation of a continuous mixer/melter having an adjustable exit opening and connected to a melt pump is provided. The melt pump, which is preferably a gear pump, is operatively connected to an extruder/pelletizer. Operation of the gear pump is controlled in proportional relation to the energy requirements of the mixer/melter motor, the energy applied to adjust and maintain the exit opening of the mixer/melter, and the suction pressure measured at the interface between the mixer/melter and the gear pump. A microprocessor unit which receives and processes the input signals, calculates the energy requirements of the gear pump motor and compares these requirements with the actual torque, makes the necessary adjustments to the gear pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1993
    Assignee: Quantum Chemical Corporation
    Inventor: James M. Edge
  • Patent number: 5179521
    Abstract: An improved system and method for effectively controlling the operation of a continuous mixer/melter having an adjustable exit opening and connected to a melt pump is provided. The melt pump, which is preferably a gear pump, is operatively connected to an extruder/pelletizer. Operation of the gear pump is controlled in proportional relation to the energy requirements of the mixer/melter motor, the energy applied to adjust and maintain the exit opening of the mixer/melter, and the suction pressure measured at the interface between the mixer/melter and the gear pump. A microprocessor unit which receives and processes the input signals, calculates the energy requirements of the gear pump motor and compares these requirements with the actual torque, makes the necessary adjustments to the gear pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1993
    Assignee: Quantum Chemical Corporation
    Inventor: James M. Edge
  • Patent number: 5133391
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for measured injection of additives into oil products and the like, in particular aims at the filling of fuel in tank farms for transport by tank trucks. Each batch of fuel shall have a pre-set proportion of additive. After each terminated filling and successively at a number larger than one, there is recorded a signal (S6) which represents discrepancies between actually supplied amount of additive and the amount which corresponds to the pre-set proportion. From the first signal (S6) there is calculated a further signal (S7) which represents discrepancies throughout said number of fillings and this further signal serves as a reference or correction value during the subsequent filling operation. A particular supply conduit (10) for fuel is adapted to give a through flow of fuel in order to remove remaining amounts of additive from the measuring system itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1992
    Assignee: Norapp- Joh. H. Andresen
    Inventors: Leif A. Johansson, Tom M. Jacobsen
  • Patent number: 5102228
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling the production of foamed material in which the material and foam are delivered to a mixer (12) in predetermined relative proportions. The apparatus comprises a mixer (23) for mixing a foam solution and air together, and a foam generator (26) for conditioning the air and foam solution mixture and delivering the resultant foam to the mixer. The foam generator (26) comprises a plurality of foam generating chambers connected in parallel, valves (28) being provided to control the flow of air and foam solution mixture through each of the generator chambers. The volume flow rate at which foam is delivered to the mixer (12) is monitored, and the valves are controlled to direct the air and foam solution mixture through one or more of the generator chambers in dependence upon the volume flow rate such that the flow velocity of the air and foam solution mixture within the chamber or chambers is within predetermined limits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1992
    Assignee: Thermal Structures Limited
    Inventor: Keith Vine-Lott
  • Patent number: 5045252
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for automatically controlling the operation of a rotary extruder, including using a pressure transducer (38, 40, 42) communicating with the annular space (50) between the barrel (12) and rotor (14) to monitor the hydraulic pressure of the melted polymer, using a microprocessor-based controller (62) to compare the measured pressure with a predetermined set point, and thereafter selectively controlling the speed of a feed drive motor (56) or melt drive motor (60) to maintain the melt pressure within a desired range while holding the extruder rotor speed constant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1991
    Assignee: Permian Research Corporation
    Inventors: Granville J. Hahn, Allen C. Bailey, Richard D. Antrim
  • Patent number: 4966466
    Abstract: A closed loop feedback control for a high pressure impingement mixing system. The high pressure impingement mixing device is equipped with a circulation loop containing both a pressure sensor and a flow volume meter. Constant pressure and flow volume is achieved by continuous closed feedback loop monitoring of the pressure and flow volume to effect a change in an adjustable pump setting and servo displaceable nozzle needle. The nozzle needle adjustment allows maintaining the appropriate pressure and volume on a continuous spaces. It also allows altering component ratios and/or flow volumes during a shot in order to affect a change in material or flow characteristics of a produced part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 30, 1990
    Assignee: Krauss-Maffei A.G.
    Inventor: Wolfgang Soechtig
  • Patent number: 4944599
    Abstract: A closed loop feedback control for a high pressure impingement mixing system. The high pressure impingement mixing device is equipped with a circulation loop containing both a pressure sensor and a flow volume meter. Constant pressure and flow volume is achieved by continuous closed feedback loop monitoring of the pressure and flow volume to effect a change in an adjustable pump setting and servo displaceable nozzle needle. The nozzle needle adjustment allows maintaining the appropriate pressure and volume on a continuous spaces. It also allows altering component ratios and/or flow volumes during a shot in order to affect a change in material or flow characteristics of a produced part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 31, 1990
    Assignee: Krauss-Maffei A.G.
    Inventor: Wolfgang Soechtig
  • Patent number: 4919540
    Abstract: A self-leveling mixer apparatus includes a base and a generally downwardly tapered movable mixing tub supported from the base in a manner such that the tub is movable between first and second positions relative to the base. A leveling valve is provided for controlling a level of fluid in the movable mixing tub. A connector linkage operably associated with the tub and the leveling valve is connected therebetween for adjusting the leveling valve in response to movement of the mixing tub relative to the base. The tub preferably has a generally oval shaped upper end and a generally circular shaped lower end and is constantly tapered therebetween. A tub orientation control linkage is provided to prevent tilting of the tub as it moves between its upper and lower positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 24, 1990
    Assignee: Halliburton Company
    Inventors: Calvin L. Stegemoeller, Gail F. Davis
  • Patent number: 4918659
    Abstract: A complete additive transport and mixing system is carried on a single vehicle. A collection of liquid additive containers, a collection of metering devices, and a mixing system are all mounted on the vehicle, as is a dry additive metering device. A selected liquid additive container can be selectively and changeably connected to a selected liquid additive metering device, and a selected liquid additive metering device can be selectably and changeably connected to a selected input into the mixing system. The metering of the liquid additives is monitored and a concentration display given so that the metering devices can be manually controlled to obtain an actual concentration equal to a desired concentration. A display indicating a desired setting for the dry additive metering device is also given so that the dry additive metering device can be manually controlled to allow a suitable amount of the dry additive to be added into the mixing system to obtain a desired concentration of the dry additive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 17, 1990
    Assignee: Halliburton Company
    Inventors: Dale E. Bragg, Mark A. Clark, Randy G. Fleming
  • Patent number: 4915160
    Abstract: A mould forming mix of ingredients including sand, a binder, and a catalyst blend is produced. The catalyst blend includes at least two catalysts one of which is slow acting and the other of which is fast acting. The ratio of the fast and slow catalysts used to make up the catalyst blend depends on the time to hardening required, and the temperature of the sand. A data processor is used to combine information concerning the hardening time, the temperature, and the rate at which materials are fed to a mixing unit, and to process the information in order to operate catalyst suppliers which supply the fast and slow catalysts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 10, 1990
    Assignee: Monica Diana Reynolds
    Inventor: Herbert W. Reynolds
  • Patent number: 4913554
    Abstract: A lifting apparatus includes a load support device for engaging and supporting a load as the load support device and the load are moved between a lowered position and a raised position relative to a base. A pair of spaced lifting arms are connected at first pivotal connections to the base and at second pivotal connections to the load support device for moving the load support device between its lowered and raised positions. A stabilizer arm is connected at a third pivotal connection to the load support device, and at a fourth pivotal connection to the base, for controlling a rotational orientation of the load support device about an axis of the second pivotal connection relative to the base. A sprocket is rigidly attached to each of the lifting arms substantially coaxial with the first pivotal connection, and a chain is operably engaged with each sprocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 3, 1990
    Assignee: Halliburton Company
    Inventors: Dale E. Bragg, Calvin L. Stegemoeller
  • Patent number: 4900157
    Abstract: A blender system includes a blender tub for blending a solid particulate material in a liquid. The tub has a tub outlet defined therein. The system also includes a pump having a pump suction inlet and a pump discharge. A suction conduit is provided for conducting a tub outlet stream from the tub outlet and a liquid supply stream from a liquid supply to the pump suction inlet. A solids concentrator device is provided for separating a pump discharge stream from the pump discharge into a lower density recirculating stream and a higher density concentrator discharge stream. The concentrator device has a concentrator inlet for receiving the pump discharge stream, a low density outlet for directing the recirculating stream back to the tub, and a high density outlet for discharging the concentrator discharge stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 13, 1990
    Assignee: Halliburton Company
    Inventors: Calvin L. Stegemoeller, Lonnie R. Walker
  • Patent number: 4898473
    Abstract: A blender system includes a blender tub for blending a solid particulate material in a liquid. The tub has a tub outlet defined therein. The system also includes a pump having a pump suction inlet and a pump discharge. A suction conduit is provided for conducting a tub outlet stream from the tub outlet and a liquid supply stream from a liquid supply to the pump suction inlet. A solids concentrator device is provided for separating a pump discharge stream from the pump discharge into a lower density recirculating stream and a higher density concentrator discharge stream. The concentrator device has a concentrator inlet for receiving the pump discharge stream, a low density outlet for directing the recirculating stream back to the tub, and a high density outlet for discharging the concentrator discharge stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1990
    Assignee: Halliburton Company
    Inventors: Calvin L. Stegemoeller, Lonnie R. Walker
  • Patent number: 4887217
    Abstract: A process for shading paint to match the color of a standard paint which process involves the use of the determination of the theoretical dry color values of the paint being manufactured and the addition of the appropriate amounts of the components of the paint which must be added to provide a final dry color which falls within the prescribed color tolerance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1989
    Assignee: The Sherwin-Williams Company
    Inventors: Charles J. Sherman, Kenneth S. Simone
  • Patent number: 4886367
    Abstract: A complete additive transport and mixing system is carried on a single vehicle. A collection of liquid additive containers, a collection of metering devices, and a mixing system are all mounted on the vehicle, as is a dry additive metering device. A selected liquid additive container can be selectably and changeably connected to a selected liquid additive metering device, and a selected liquid additive metering device can be selectably and changeably connected to a selected input into the mixing system. The metering of the liquid additives is monitored and a concentration display given so that the metering devices can be manually controlled to obtain an actual concentration equal to a desired concentration. A display indicating a desired setting for the dry additive metering device is also given so that the dry additive metering device can be manually controlled to allow a suitable amount of the dry additive to be added into the mixing system to obtain a desired concentration of the dry additive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1989
    Assignee: Halliburton Company
    Inventors: Dale E. Bragg, Mark A. Clark, Randy G. Fleming
  • Patent number: 4854713
    Abstract: A closed loop feedback control for a high pressure impingement mixing system. The high pressure impingement mixing device is equipped with a circulation loop containing both a pressure sensor and a flow volume meter. Constant pressure and flow volume is achieved by continuous closed feedback loop monitoring of the pressure and flow volume to effect a change in an adjustable pump setting and servo displaceable nozzle needle. The nozzle needle adjustment allows maintaining the appropriate pressure and volume on a continuous spaces. It also allows altering component ratios and/or flow volumes during a shot in order to affect a change in material or flow characteristics of a produced part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1989
    Assignee: Krauss-Maffei A.G.
    Inventor: Wolfgang Soechtig
  • Patent number: 4854714
    Abstract: A blender vehicle apparatus includes a vehicle having a vehicle frame. An internal combustion engine driven hydraulic power package is mounted on the vehicle frame. A plurality of liquid additive storage tanks are mounted on the frame adjacent the power package. An operator's work platform, including a control station, is mounted on the vehicle frame adjacent the storage tanks on a side thereof opposite the power package. A hydraulically powered blender assembly is also included, and a hydraulically powered lifting apparatus is mounted on the vehicle frame for moving the blender assembly between a lowered position and a raised position. The raised position of the blender assembly is located above the vehicle frame and adjacent the work platform on a side thereof opposite the storage tanks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1989
    Assignee: Halliburton Company
    Inventors: Gail F. Davis, Robert L. Baker, Dale E. Bragg, Calvin L. Stegemoeller
  • Patent number: 4850701
    Abstract: A self-leveling mixing apparatus includes a transportable skid frame. A mixing tub is supported from the frame in a manner such that the tube is movable between first and second positions relative to the frame. The tube has a tub fluid outlet defined in a lower portion thereof. A suction conduit is supported from the skid frame for transport therewith and includes a manifold inlet, a manifold outlet, and a tub outlet conduit portion located upstream of the manifold outlet and connected to the tub fluid outlet. A leveling valve is also included and is disposed in the suction conduit upstream of the manifold outlet for controlling a level of fluid in the tub. A connector linkage operably connects the tube and the leveling valve for adjusting the leveling valve in response to movement of the tub relative to the skid frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1989
    Assignee: Halliburton Company
    Inventors: Calvin L. Stegemoeller, Gail F. Davis, Lonnie R. Walker