Flow Control Patents (Class 405/80)
  • Patent number: 7967529
    Abstract: An ocean water drawing system includes: a well; a working tunnel disposed underground and having an end segment distal from the well; a pipeline unit including a primary pipeline disposed in the working tunnel, and having one end extending sealingly into the well and the other end extending through the end segment of the working tunnel and into an ocean so as to permit ocean water to flow into the well through the primary pipeline; and an access tunnel isolated from the well and extending downwardly from a ground surface to intersect the working tunnel so as to communicate spatially with the working tunnel and so as to permit access into the end segment of the working tunnel for operation and maintenance of the primary pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Inventors: Yeh-Huei Kuo, Bing-Sheng Yu
  • Publication number: 20110033240
    Abstract: A passive ocean current deflector has an elongated conduit positionable in an ocean with its lower inlet end below the euphotic zone and anchored in place and its upper outlet end positioned in the euphotic zone and retained in place. Ocean currents direct cooler, nutrient rich ocean water into the inlet end and upwardly through the conduit to exit out the outlet end to intermix with water in the euphotic zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2009
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Wayne Heavenor
  • Publication number: 20110013987
    Abstract: A guide apparatus for inducing the downward flow of surface water guides a water flow, formed by a tidal current or a wind-driven current, to guide the surface water toward deep water, thereby mixing polluted surface water with deep water such that supersaturated dissolved oxygen of the surface water is transferred to the deep water, and thus, oxygen is fed into a predetermined region of the deep water, which is being rotten due to the deficiency of dissolved oxygen, thereby allowing aerobic microorganisms to metabolize. The guide apparatus includes a hollow floating unit, which is immersed in the water; a balance unit placed on a top end of the floating unit to balance the floating unit; and a balance member attached to a bottom end of the floating unit to allow the floating unit to be erected and balanced on the water surface and in the water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2007
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Inventor: Hosang Choi
  • Patent number: 7866919
    Abstract: A high altitude pumped-storage system for selectively integrating, storing, and distributing water and energy to increase the regional productivity of existing and future water and energy resources throughout multiple river basins is disclosed. This system addresses in part the increased requirement of supplying energy demands from a renewable energy source, such as wind, solar, or water generated power. The system includes at least one primary reservoir connected to multiple secondary reservoirs by conduits. The system allows for selectively distributing water and energy between secondary reservoirs and at least one primary reservoir. The system may comprise one or more hydroelectric power generation facilities. A method for increasing the regional efficiency of existing and future systems for producing, storing, and delivering energy from sources such as hydroelectric, wind and solar power from the water collected by the system described herein is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Natural Energy Resources Company
    Inventor: Allen David Miller
  • Patent number: 7857546
    Abstract: A method of and apparatus for controlling drainage/irrigation of a field includes laying out a network of spaced, interconnected water level-responsive valves coupled to drainage tiles, which typically may include a main line and a number of lateral lines, extending from higher elevations to lower elevations and exiting through a manually controlled main valve to a drainage ditch. When the water level adjacent a valve is below a predetermined level, the valve is open allowing water to flow down to the lowest level. As the ambient water level in the soil rises, the valve's float also rises, causing the valve to close when the water reaches a predetermined level and producing a “terracing” effect wherein the rising water is sequentially stored at increasingly higher elevations for irrigating these elevated areas. Overflow conduits associated with each valve allow water to discharge into the drainage ditch when the sub-surface water level is too high.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Inventors: Brian Scott Furrer, Ronald Gene Schlatter, G. Jason Furrer
  • Publication number: 20100307147
    Abstract: Energy can be stored by directing fluid into an expandable receptacle that has a relatively heavy mass above it. The fluid fills the receptacle such that it expands and lifts up the heavy mass above it. At a time when energy is needed, the fluid can be allowed to flow out of the receptacle and through a turbine or hydraulic motor to generate power or electricity. Intermittent or unreliable sources of power can be used to fill the receptacle, or power from a power grid can be used to fill the receptacle at times that are off-peak. During peak-load times, the potential energy of the fluid in the receptacle can be converted to power. The receptacle can also be used to control water flows and can provide a source of power and potable water to a community.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Inventors: Steven Thomas Ivy, Guy Carl Eastwood
  • Patent number: 7832959
    Abstract: A method of restoring a lake that has a high saline level is disclosed herein. In order to restore the lake, a series of concentric dikes or levees are provided that separate the lake into a plurality of smaller lake sections, each having a water surface. The smaller lake sections include an outer lake section which is next to the periphery of the lake and one or more inner lake sections. Each dike and each smaller lake section water surface have an elevation. Water is flowed from an influent source to the outer lake section and then to each of the inner lake sections. The outer lake section surface has a higher elevation. The inner lake section surfaces have cascading lower surface elevations. At a central area, a breathing brine area is provided that is surrounded by the smaller lake sections to provide an area that can be used to concentrate brine. The smaller lake sections can have differing salinity levels for sustaining diverse marine and plant life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Bean Stuyvesant, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Pieter van Groen, Jorrit K. de Groot
  • Patent number: 7823240
    Abstract: A bridge includes a pier, and a hooked collar at least formed on upstream surface of the pier. The anti-scour structure includes at least one hook extending upwardly. The hook configured for guiding water flow or downflow to move upwardly thereby protect river bed from being scoured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Inventor: Su-Chin Chen
  • Patent number: 7824128
    Abstract: The invention relates to a gravity-fed basin for discharging industrial water into a receiving body of water. The gravity-fed basin comprises a gravity cylinder having an inlet opening and an outlet opening, and comprises an overflow sill formed by the edge of the inlet opening of the gravity cylinder. The invention is characterized in that the outlet opening of the gravity cylinder is located underneath the liquid level of the receiving body of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Hubert Schäferlein
  • Patent number: 7798419
    Abstract: A method and device for suppressing the destructive force of a tropical cyclone, wherein the ascendant speed of wind in the eyewall of a cyclone is reduced by sea water pumped on-site from under the sea surface to above the surface, and then dispensed in the wind at the bottom of the cyclone in/near its eyewall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Inventor: Jozef Solc
  • Patent number: 7798175
    Abstract: A fluid diversion conduit is described for diverting the flow of fluid, and particularly for diverting water from a stream to a discharge location. The discharge end of the duct has a segment of gradually enlarging cross sectional area, forming a hydraulic flow diffuser. Water flow through this segment is thereby slowed as the flow area increases, and most of the dynamic head of the water flow is recovered, improving flow capacity of the conduit. The rate of flow through the conduit may be monitored and controlled to achieve streamline flow in the diffuser section, and to prevent air from entering the diffuser section. Air entering the conduit may be expelled or otherwise displaced from the conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Inventor: Todd McBride
  • Publication number: 20100202834
    Abstract: A method for collecting and transporting snow includes the steps of providing a snow blower mounted to an inclined alpine mountain-side and a pipe cooperating with the snow blower to remove snow from the snow blower to a downhill location remote from the snow blower, urging snow into the snow blower and propelling snow from the snow blower into the pipe via a diffuser, transporting the snow downhill in the pipe, and delivering the snow from the pipe at a downhill location below the elevation of the snow blower.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2010
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Inventors: Joseph Leitner, Wilheim Leitner
  • Patent number: 7727077
    Abstract: A water amusement ride system is disclosed. The system may include a device or apparatus, including a water bypass channel in fluid communication with a channel of water. The water bypass channel may include a water entrance, a water exit, and an adjustable valve. The water entrance is in fluid communication with water upstream of the apparatus. The water exit is in fluid communication with water downstream of the apparatus. The adjustable valve may be located between the water entrance and the water exit. The adjustable valve may be adjusted to control an amount of water exiting the water bypass channel. The water bypass channel may increase the flow rate of water between the water entrance and the water exit of the water bypass channel. The water bypass channel may assist in controlling a water effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Patent number: 7708494
    Abstract: A water diversion system includes a hydraulic chute and a chute screen assembly in the hydraulic chute having a wedge wire screen. The water diversion system also includes at least one collection chamber located below the screen configured to collect filtered diversion water which has passed through the screen. The hydraulic chute includes a base, a crest, a sloped accelerator, and an abrupt drop with an adjustable lip, which forms a hydraulic formation in a downstream pool. The hydraulic chute can also include sloped sidewalls, which constrict the flow of water and form fish passage zones. In addition, the chute screen assembly can include a modular panel configured to facilitate construction, maintenance and replacement of the wedge wire screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: McLaughlin Consulting Company
    Inventor: Richard Evan McLaughlin
  • Publication number: 20090269139
    Abstract: A fluid diversion conduit is described for diverting the flow of fluid, and particularly for diverting water from a stream to a discharge location. The discharge end of the duct has a segment of gradually enlarging cross sectional area, forming a hydraulic flow diffuser. Water flow through this segment is thereby slowed as the flow area increases, and most of the dynamic head of the water flow is recovered, improving flow capacity of the conduit. The rate of flow through the conduit may be monitored and controlled to achieve streamline flow in the diffuser section, and to prevent air from entering the diffuser section. Air entering the conduit may be expelled or otherwise displaced from the conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Todd McBride
  • Publication number: 20090196692
    Abstract: A pumping unit is provided that controls fluid pressure in a pipe being traversed according to the degree of resistance encountered by a pig traversing the pipe under fluid pressure. Increasing fluid pressure in constricted areas enables an intelligent pig to traverse the pipe with a more uniform speed by controlling the fluid velocity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventor: Orlande Wayne Sivacoe
  • Patent number: 7536967
    Abstract: A marine water conversion apparatus capable of pumping ocean surface water several hundred feel below the surface to cause sufficient cooler water to rise to the surface to prevent formation of or to moderate hurricanes. The apparatus is remotely controlled and includes a propulsion system for moving it to a new location or in predetermined patterns through use of a global positioning system and computerized controls. Power for driving the pumps may be provided by a wind turbine driven electric generator at the upper end of an upper tube section pivotally connected to a float tank on a vertical axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Inventor: Gerald L. Barber
  • Patent number: 7507054
    Abstract: A below grade trench drain system and a method for making the trench drain system is disclosed which does not rely on the contractor's prowess to dig a trench with a proper slope. The trench drain system, in accordance with the present invention, includes a plurality of modular trench sections formed with a uniform exterior height and an interior fluid channel formed with a pre-sloped floor. As such, the trench drain system, in accordance with the present invention, can be installed in a level trench, which greatly simplifies installation by the contractor and ensures that the trench drain will be installed with the proper slope. The modular trench sections can be coupled together forming a trench drain with a continuous slope or alternatively coupled with modular trench sections with no slope to form a stepped slope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Assignee: Lighthouse Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Charles Fithian, Todd J. Holloway
  • Publication number: 20090074514
    Abstract: A flow limiting inlet structure is designed to collect water or other fluids in a pool above grade, and to provide improved capture of sediments and surface pollutants such as oils and greases in the pool, while regulating the flow of water or other fluids during discharge into an outlet pipe. In a conventional storm water detention basin a vertical cylindrical discharge structure can be used to regulate the basin water depth and discharge flow rate of storm water out of the detention basin, in conjunction with the use of a specially designed baffle system that prevents the release of any greases or oils floating on the water surface while capturing any floating trash or debris.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Applicant: Geomatrix Consultants, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy S. Simpson, Gregory Coppola, Ron Borrego
  • Publication number: 20090074513
    Abstract: An ocean water drawing system includes: a well; a working tunnel disposed underground and having an end segment distal from the well; a pipeline unit including a primary pipeline disposed in the working tunnel, and having one end extending sealingly into the well and the other end extending through the end segment of the working tunnel and into an ocean so as to permit ocean water to flow into the well through the primary pipeline; and an access tunnel isolated from the well and extending downwardly from a ground surface to intersect the working tunnel so as to communicate spatially with the working tunnel and so as to permit access into the end segment of the working tunnel for operation and maintenance of the primary pipeline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Inventors: Yeh-Huei KUO, Bing-Sheng YU
  • Publication number: 20090052991
    Abstract: A feature of the present invention is it is adaptable to any pre-existing storm catch basin system. Another feature of the present invention is that it permits empirical analysis and verification of the draw down rate. Another feature is the present invention can be adjusted or modified to increase or decrease the rate of draw down after it has been installed to insure regulatory conditions are precisely met without difficulty. Changes in future regulatory draw down rates can be easily implemented. A flow restriction device has an orifice plate, the orifice plate having a frontal surface area A and at least one opening for the passage of fluid of an area Oa, wherein Oa is less than A. The flow restriction device may also employ a screen debris plate, the screen debris plate having a plurality of spaced openings for the passage of fluid; the sum area of the openings being ?Osp wherein ?Osp is greater than Oa.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2008
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Inventor: Bruce Locke Robinson
  • Patent number: 7465123
    Abstract: A natural water circulation apparatus reduces the evaporation rate of a body of water by lowering the surface temperature and improves the quality of the water. The apparatus includes a collector which extends above the normal surface level of the water to capture surface waves. The captured water is conveyed from the epilimnion of the body of water to the hypolimnion of the body of water through a lower opening in the collector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Inventor: Carla E. Bergman
  • Publication number: 20080253837
    Abstract: A high altitude pumped-storage system for selectively integrating, storing, and distributing water and energy to increase the regional productivity of existing and future water and energy resources throughout multiple river basins is disclosed. This system addresses in part the increased requirement of supplying energy demands from a renewable energy source, such as wind, solar, or water generated power. The system includes at least one primary reservoir connected to multiple secondary reservoirs by conduits. The system allows for selectively distributing water and energy between secondary reservoirs and at least one primary reservoir. The system may comprise one or more hydroelectric power generation facilities. A method for increasing the regional efficiency of existing and future systems for producing, storing, and delivering energy from sources such as hydroelectric, wind and solar power from the water collected by the system described herein is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Applicant: NATURAL ENERGY RESOURCES COMPANY
    Inventor: Allen David Miller
  • Patent number: 7429147
    Abstract: An anti-flooding device with possible displacement of the waters for the exploitation of water energy includes a double closing system with an outer or inner cylindrical element with automatic, semi-automatic or manual operation, a pipe-line provided with an opening at the surface level which assures a constantly equal water level in the basin, and below which there are a plurality of pipes which come out above the surface for the air passage and for being guided to a float connected to a tubular sluice-gate that closes an opening on the bottom of the main pipe-line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Inventor: Antonio Marchetti
  • Patent number: 7419334
    Abstract: A means of alleviating or preventing flooding in geographic areas which are normally drained by slow moving water in ditches, rivers, bayous or other waterways of relatively shallow slope by using a water thrusting means to add kinetic energy and therefore velocity to a portion of the water, mixing the portion back in the main body of water in a downstream direction to increase the average velocity downstream of the main body of water, and thereby move water away from the flooding area to a remote area more quickly than would occur naturally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Inventor: Benton Frederick Baugh
  • Patent number: 7410324
    Abstract: An apparatus or biopassage (A) includes a housing (20) dimensioned for receipt in a waterway during an increased flow event. The housing has a passage: (26) that provides a region of reduced flow generally irrespective of the flow external to the passage. A flow disrupter (50) disturbs laminar flow in the waterway above the passage. A preferred embodiment of the disrupter includes surfaces (52, 54) disposed in angled relation relative to a common apex (60) located above a longitudinal opening (30passage. The surfaces include a series of peaks and valleys formed by angled planar portions (56) in one arrangement. A deflector (NC) is positioned upstream of an inlet end (40) of the passage to direct water away from the passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Inventor: Randall L. Tucker
  • Patent number: 7351007
    Abstract: A waterfall spillway is provided and has a front wall with a top portion and a bottom portion as well as a back wall substantially parallel with the front wall and having top, central, and bottom portions. A base wall is also included and connects the bottom portion of the front wall with the bottom portion of the back wall. A cavity is formed between the front wall and the back wall. A shelf extends from the top portion of the front wall, and is substantially parallel with the base wall. One or more of the side spillways may also be included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Inventor: David M. Ouwinga
  • Patent number: 7344336
    Abstract: A method of providing clear ocean water near a shoreline comprising providing a pump with inlet and outlet piping, locating the inlet to said inlet piping at a distal location from said shoreline where the ocean water is clear, locating one or more outlets on said outlet piping proximate said shoreline, and pumping clear water from said distal location to said proximate location, and displacing the water proximate the shoreline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Inventor: Benton Frederick Baugh
  • Patent number: 7229234
    Abstract: This invention discloses a simple and convenient method of floods control and with great discharge capacity. This invention is a method of speeding up the river floods water discharge ability into the sea by means of the natural tidal range. This is done by the following technical proposals. To set up the PTCCG between the tidal current limit of the estuary and the coast tangent or narrower part of the estuary; the said PTCCG should be built across the river from the banks theoretically. When there is a danger of flood during the floods seasons, we can close the PTCCG and prevent the tidal current from entering into the inner river. When the tide ebbs, we can re-open the PTCCG and discharge the freshwater withheld into the sea. The PTCCG is normally open when it is not used. This invention is applicable to all tidal estuaries, which are affected by the astronomical tide range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Inventor: Po Tung Lim
  • Patent number: 7192217
    Abstract: A baffle apparatus and method for directing fluid flow to reduce damage to an energy dissipating basin that includes an inlet, an outlet, a floor, a sidewall that extends upward from an edge of the floor, and an opposing sidewall that extends upward from an opposing edge of the floor defining a basin interior with a basin span between the sidewall and the opposing sidewall. The baffle apparatus includes a deflector structure that is generally planar and is fixedly or adjustably positioned substantially transverse to a downstream direction flow in the basin, the deflector structure spanning between the sidewall and the opposing sidewall above the floor. Also included, is a retaining structure for fixedly or adjustably positioning and securing the deflector structure to the sidewall. The deflector structure directs flow in the basin to flow in a downstream direction from a reverse upstream direction adjacent to the basin floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: United States of America Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation
    Inventors: Leslie J. Hanna, Brent W. Mefford
  • Patent number: 7186058
    Abstract: A stormwater runoff detention system includes a system including an inlet, a first surge chamber, a second surge chamber and one or more storage chambers. The first surge chamber is connected to receive stormwater from the inlet prior to the second surge chamber or the storage chamber. The first surge chamber includes a discharge outlet and an overflow outlet to the storage chamber. The second surge chamber is connected to receive stormwater from the inlet primarily after the first surge chamber has begun overflowing to the storage chamber. The second surge chamber includes a discharge outlet and an overflow outlet to the storage chamber or to a second storage chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: Contech Stormwater Solutions Inc.
    Inventors: James C. Schluter, Vaikko P. Allen, II., Daniel P. Cobb, Thomas R. Adams
  • Patent number: 7179387
    Abstract: A method for remediating a body of water includes sequestering a sector of water within the body of water. A communications channel is established between the water sector and a supply site. The water sector is at least partially remediated using the channel to alter a composition and/or a state of the water in the water sector. The channel may be used to add a chemical or nutrient; to provide air or water for mixing the column contents; to convey an electrical signal to an element such as a valve, sensor, or pump in the water sector; to withdraw samples and/or components from the water sector; or to obtain information therefrom via electrical signals. Following the remediation, the remediated water is exchanged with water to be treated from the body of water. In this way, the body of water is remediated over time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Inventor: Thomas A. DeBusk
  • Patent number: 7153060
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for environmental stabilization of a body of water. A body of water is stabilized by extracting water from a higher elevation body of water at a downhill flow rate, receiving the water at lower elevation body of water, and extracting water from the lower elevation body of water to a higher elevation body of water or the like at an uphill flow rate. In certain embodiments, the invention may also include extracting energy from the downhill flow rate and using at least a portion of the energy to generate an uphill flow rate. The system and method may also include temporarily adjusting the downhill and uphill flow rates in preparation for a high demand interval.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Inventor: Robert F. Bennion
  • Patent number: 7094337
    Abstract: An overflow chamber (2) is provided for use in a combined sewer overflow. An inlet (12) and an outlet (14) open into the chamber (2) below a screen (20), and an overflow outlet (15) opens into the chamber above the screen. Baffles (26) are provided underneath the screen (20) across the general flow of storm water. In storm conditions, the storm water in the chamber (2) will reach the level of the screen (20), which traps aesthetically offensive material and gross solids, leaving the water to flow through the screen (20) to the overflow outlet (15). The baffles (26) circulate the storm water, and this dislodges material accumulated on the underside of the screen (20) and so helps to prevent blinding of the screen (20) in storm conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: Hydro International PLC
    Inventors: Christopher A. Williams, Paul Lecornu, Mark D. James, Robert Y. G. Andoh, Michael G Faram
  • Patent number: 7052208
    Abstract: A discharge control system for a reservoir having a pressure-communicating valve in a valve chamber with the inlet of the pressure-communicating valve connected the reservoir outlet aperture and the outlet of the pressure-communicating valve connected to a discharge aperture in the containment structure for the valve chamber. An auxiliary reservoir outlet aperture enables water to flow from the reservoir into the valve chamber, submerging the pressure-communicating valve. Water flows from the valve chamber through a valve chamber outlet aperture that is substantially the same as the auxiliary reservoir outlet aperture and is located at substantially the same height as the center of the reservoir outlet aperture. One or more supplemental auxiliary reservoir outlet apertures are located at incrementally greater heights in the containment wall for said reservoir to assure that water will enter and leave the valve chamber at the same rate under all conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Gardner
  • Patent number: 7052206
    Abstract: This paper proposes an integrated approach to storm water management and storm water treatment. Today's requirements for capturing and treating the first-flush of storm water can be met with a new device that also controls peak flows over a wide range of storms and uses a net storage volume that is substantially lower than the storage computed by traditional reservoir routing methods. The extention basin debuts here as the most efficient method of reducing peak storm water flows—being far more effective than the retention or detention basins in common use today.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Inventor: Ralph G. Mastromonaco
  • Patent number: 6988853
    Abstract: A muted tidal regulator adapted to be interposed between a tidal body of water and an inland area at least partially isolated from the tidal body of water by a physical barrier. The assembly includes a tide gate that is made up of a conduit connecting said tidal body of water to said inland area and a closure operable to selectively prevent water flow through the conduit. The assembly also includes an inland water level sensing device and a closure control assembly responsive to the sensing device and adapted to affirmatively permit water flow through the conduit when the sensing device senses an inland water level below a threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: Nehalem Marine Manufacturing
    Inventor: Leo Kuntz
  • Patent number: 6964541
    Abstract: An apparatus for separating animated objects such as fish or other objects between a non-diverted and diverted fluid stream. Embodiments may include a screen or similar selective pass through device that is arranged in a manner that is generally horizontal (more horizontal than vertical). The non-diverted flow preferably passes over the screen while the diverted flow passes through the screen. Aspects of the apparatus may include faster sweeping velocity than pass through velocity, tapered side or bottom walls, a depressed low flow channel, a distributed under screen reservoir that facilitates distributed fluid flow through the screen or like devices, amongst other aspects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: Farmers Irrigation District
    Inventor: William Jerry Bryan
  • Publication number: 20040247394
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for extracting liquid from a body of liquid are disclosed. One such apparatus includes a conduit terminator operable to terminate a conduit, the conduit terminator having an inlet opening to facilitate conduction of liquid from the body of liquid. The apparatus further includes a solid object diverter including at least one solid wall surrounding the inlet opening to define a liquid admitting cavity about the inlet opening to impede solid objects from entering the inlet opening while permitting entry of liquid into the cavity for admission into the inlet opening. The apparatus also has a positioner operable to position the diverter in a position in the liquid body such that the cavity admits liquid from the body of liquid while the inlet opening admits liquid from the cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2003
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Inventors: Rodney E. Smith, Colin Victor Hall
  • Publication number: 20040190992
    Abstract: New in the art to which our invention is pertains: There is to pump out water from the river temporarily by pumps trough the self-cleaning intakes, which protect everything in the river into the spare reservoirs prepared in the convenient places to avoid over full the river and to avoid the flood, and then pump out water from the spare reservoirs back into the river after the threat of the flood will be terminated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2003
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Inventors: Boris Davidovich Konstantinovskiy, Tatyana Borisovna Konstantinovskaya
  • Patent number: 6793440
    Abstract: A system and method for guiding fish that migrate is provided. A preferred embodiment is affixed to a dam having intakes that: a) generate hydroelectric power and b) serve as a natural hydraulic cue for fish that, once attracted to the intake, may be injured or killed traversing the intake. A device resembling an oversize kitchen exhaust fan hood, with extension, is affixed adjacent the upstream side of a stream barrier that otherwise precludes fish from safely passing. The device simulates a naturally occurring hydraulic cue that fish use to migrate and may be used to defeat competing detrimental hydraulic cues. Also provided are embodiments to enable adjustment of the device to meet changing hydraulic conditions; to preclude the accidental provision of competing negative cues or stimuli; and to complement the simulated natural hydraulic cue provided by the device through using stimuli such as light, sound or combinations thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: John M. Nestler, Richard Andrew Goodwin
  • Publication number: 20040165955
    Abstract: A bypass channel (C) for fish extends along line one side of a river, for the full length of a section of the river in which reservoirs (22, 24, 26, 28) have been created by dams (14, 16, 18, 20). The channel (C) follows the grade of the natural river. It includes an inner wall (34) that varies in height so that it is always higher than the water level in any of the reservoirs. It also includes an outer wall (36) and a bottom wall (38) which are formed on the natural terrain that borders the river and reservoirs. In at least its taller regions, the inner wall (38) may be braced by a diagonal member or a system of member (40). Water flow into the channel (C) maybe regulated by horizontal and/or vertical gates (50, 52) or some other structure for changing the cross sectional area of the channel (C).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2004
    Publication date: August 26, 2004
    Inventor: Robert E. Davis
  • Patent number: 6772789
    Abstract: A flow leveling device for use in a liquid distribution system that can be attached to the end of a conduit The device has an eccentrically placed opening on the face of the device whose vertical position can be varied so as to equalize the flow of liquid dispersed from a central point. The device is secured to the conduit by a double-walled skirt depending from the face of the device. The skirt has a central gap defined by the double walls which securely holds the conduit walls therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Inventors: Theophilus B. Terry, III, Michael J. Hornback
  • Patent number: 6736572
    Abstract: A method for inhibiting the pollution of a harbor having an entrance interfacing a moving body of water in which jet streams of water are generated near the surface. The jet streams of water displacing the surface water and the floating debris away from the harbor's entrance significantly reducing the collection of debris in the harbor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Inventor: Brian Geraghty
  • Patent number: 6726404
    Abstract: Provided are a device and associated method for simulating natural hydraulic cues received instinctively by waterborne fauna. A preferred embodiment is suitable for modifying existing manmade barriers such as fish diversion screens used at dams. The simulated cues mimic those produced by the flow of water over rough streambeds. Fish detect the cues and avoid contact with the barriers in the same way that they avoid collision with natural features. In one embodiment, a series of rectangular plates are attached to the U-clip connectors on the downstream side of diversion screens. The plates are oriented approximately perpendicular to the flow lines approaching the surface of the screen. The flow contacts the plates and, because the orientation of the plate creates an unstable hydraulic field, the flow alternately slips above and below the plates, creating fluctuating local acceleration zones able to be detected by migrating fish and other waterborne fauna.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: John M. Nestler
  • Patent number: 6706096
    Abstract: Subterranean gases are removed from a building site by drawing air from ambience and passing the air through an air permeable bed of materials (10) located at the site as a diffused air stream. The subterranean gases become entrained in the diffused air stream which is then exhausted from the bed and removed from the site. A system for practicing the method has slotted air injection conduits (12) interspersed between slotted air extraction conduits (15) embedded in an air permeable bed of materials beneath the building. The system has a blower (18) for drawing air from the extraction conduits and removing it from the site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: Geosyntec Consultants, Inc.
    Inventors: Thierry R. Sanglerat, Gregory T. Corcoran, David W. Riotte
  • Patent number: 6692189
    Abstract: A flume for diurnally storing and releasing municipal sewage in its conveyance network of sewers and interceptor piping to reduce peak flow rates in a sewer system and the downstream wastewater treatment plant. The disclosed invention reduces peak flow rates without affecting flow rates below a selected threshold, maintaining minimum flow rates while storing wastewater in sewers and providing features that protect against sewer backups during high flows.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Aqua Flow Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Claude T. Anderson, Ronald L. Jacobson, Michael G. Rieth
  • Patent number: 6641328
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for extracting liquid from a body of liquid. The apparatus includes a conduit terminator operable to terminate a conduit, the conduit terminator having an inlet opening to facilitate conduction of liquid from the body of liquid. The apparatus includes a solid object diverter connected to the conduit terminator, the diverter defining a liquid admitting cavity about the inlet opening to impede solid objects from entering the inlet opening while permitting entry of liquid into the cavity for admission into the inlet opening. The apparatus also has a positioner operable to position the diverter in a position in the liquid body such that the cavity admits liquid from the body of liquid while the inlet opening admits liquid from the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: Balaton Power Corporation S.A.
    Inventors: Rodney Elliott Smith, Colin Victor Hall
  • Publication number: 20030131801
    Abstract: A system and method for guiding fish that migrate is provided. A preferred embodiment is affixed to a dam having intakes that: a) generate hydroelectric power and b) serve as a natural hydraulic cue for fish that, once attracted to the intake, are converted to pet food. A device resembling an oversize kitchen exhaust fan hood, with extension, is affixed adjacent the upstream side of a stream barrier that otherwise precludes fish from safely passing. The device simulates a naturally occurring hydraulic cue that fish use to migrate and may be used to defeat competing detrimental hydraulic cues. Also provided are embodiments to enable adjustment of the device to meet changing hydraulic conditions; to preclude the accidental provision of competing negative cues or stimuli; and to complement the simulated natural hydraulic cue provided by the device through using stimuli such as light, sound or combinations thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventors: John M. Nestler, Richard Andrew Goodwin
  • Patent number: 6575662
    Abstract: A water quality management system and method that controls the exchange of water between two bodies of water (e.g., estuary and ocean) separated by at least one land barrier. The system consists of a series of water exchange units that are disposed in the estuary and knowledge-linked into a water quality management system that is remotely controlled from a central location. Each water exchange unit may comprise a conduit extending through the land barrier having a terminal end on the ocean side and a terminal end on the estuary side. The exchange of water between the ocean and estuary through the conduit may be effected using reversible pumps connected to the terminal end of the conduit on the estuary side. The pumps are preferably controlled from a remote location based on feed back data received from sensors located both in the estuary and ocean.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Gannett Fleming, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce J. French