Abstract: Hydraulic-exchange pumping device comprising two containers or tanks, inside each of which there are defined: a chamber for the product to be pumped, which is respectively connected, through a delivery valve and a suction valve, to the lines of delivery and of intake of the product to be pumped, as well as a chamber for the hydraulic drive fluid, which is connected to a pump through a four-way, three-position distribution box. This partitioning is accomplished by means of an internal elastic membrane having a decreasing thickness from the its peripheral edge towards its central zone, which can be also equipped with a strengthening cloth embedded inside it, as well as with a set of metal rings having a cross-section surface area decreasing towards the center of the same membrane.

Abstract: A two-stage combination reciprocating and bladder pump wherein a hollow piston is disposed for reciprocating movement within a main pump body, and a bladder pump is housed in the piston. The piston pump and bladder pump are thus coaxially arranged, with the bladder pump mounted within the piston pump and operably cooperating therewith. A reciprocating tube is attached to the piston to permit operation thereof from above ground, and also serves as a conduit for alternately supplying pressurized air and atmospheric venting to the bladder pump. A rigid support pipe supports the main pump body, and has the reciprocating tube extending coaxially therethrough. A fluid discharge tube is in turn coaxially arranged within the reciprocating tube, thus defining a triaxial tubular arrangement. The fluid discharge tube provides communication between a fluid chamber of the piston pump and a fluid chamber of the bladder pump, and also functions as a conduit for discharging fluid to the exterior of the main pump body.

Abstract: An apparatus for transferring liquid between regions of a first and a second pressure comprising:a vessel,a dividing member in the vessel, the vessel and the dividing member being relatively movable to divide the vessel into separate variable volume chambers,a first pair of valves,one of which controls passage of liquid between a first of said chambers and said region of a first pressure,the other of which controls passage of liquid between a second of said chambers and said region of a first pressure,a second pair of valves, one of which controls passage of liquid between said first chamber and said region of a second pressure,the other of which controls passage of liquid between said second chamber and said region of a second pressure,operating means repeatedly to perform the following cycle of operations;close the valves of one of said pairs and open the valves of the other of said pairs,then move the dividing member to cause the volume of said first chamber to increase and the volume of said second chambe

Abstract: A pump is disclosed in which high pressure air overcomes a valve spring and displaces a flexible partition to isolate a pump fluid volume. The pressure air then drives the fluid along a conduit.

Abstract: Apparatus for dispensing a liquid beverage concentrate comprises a concente reservoir, a resilient dispensing tube having one end in communication with the reservoir via a non-return valve opening into the tube and having an opposite dispensing end provided with a non-return valve opening outwardly, and a pressure fluid device for squeezing a portion of the dispensing tube so as to force a quantity of concentrate through the dispensing end of the tube, the pressure fluid device including a deformable sleeve loosely fitting over the tube and separating the tube from the pressure fluid.

Abstract: An improved zone control apparatus having mode selectors which allow a user to select any one of a variety of operating modes for individual fluidically actuated flow control devices. The invention further provides for a smoke damper which upon automatic or manual activation causes all of the flow control devices to restrict flow of conditioned fluid through respective ducts or pipes so as to help minimize smoke contamination and the formation of a "chimney" effect. The invention further provides for the utilization of vibration type diaphragm pumps to create a source of pressure and vacuum, a pressure test device to quickly check the pressure in the apparatus, and a flow indicator for determining the location of leaks in the apparatus.

Abstract: A filter pump head assembly (10) is adapted for use with pneumatic pumping control systems. The assembly includes a rigid case subassembly (12) enclosing a chemically inert liner subassembly (14) which encloses a filter subassembly (16). The liner subassembly (14) includes a pneumatically deformable pumping membrane (72), the deformation of which varies the volume surrounding a filter cartridge (112). Various valves (33, 34 and 35) and ports are operated by selective pneumatic pressure on a top membrane (68). The control block (80) includes a bubble capture channel (94) which allows the bleeding of undesirable gas bubbles during use. The invention pump of the various disclosed embodiments is particularly adapted to pump and filter ultrapure, reactive fluids varying viscosities at a low pumping pressure. The primary current commercial usage of the invention is in the semiconductor manufacturing industry.

Abstract: A pressure-operated valve is provided, particularly for use with a downhole pump of the fluid-driven, successive-stage, bladder type. Such a pump includes a plurality of pump and transfer modules. The pump modules have bladders which are operated by fluid, preferably gas, under pressure supplied through two separate internal passages in the modules to pump liquid upwardly through transfer modules. The pressure-operated valve is located below the bottom of the pump module and normally closes off the two gas passages. When gas under pressure above operating pressure is supplied through one of the passages, to establish a sufficient pressure differential between the passages, the valve opens to connect the passages. Heated gas can then be circulated to increase the temperature of internal oil passages extending through the modules to prevent paraffin formation. The two gas circuits can also be connected to enable removal of condensate.

Abstract: A compressor (10) and an accumulator tank (12) supply compressed air to an oxygen concentrator (32). Separated oxygen flows through a first check valve (40) into a first oxygen receiving region (54) of a first tank (50) displacing a first movable barrier (52). When a pressure sensor (72) senses that the pressure in the first oxygen receiving region has reached a preselected level, it causes a valve (62) to move from a vent state to a state in which compressed air is supplied from the accumulator into a pressurizing fluid receiving region (56). This displaces the first movable barrier with a first preselected pressure, pumping the oxygen through a second check valve (80) into a second oxygen receiving region (94) of a second tank (90). A second movable barrier (92) separates the second oxygen receiving region from a second pressurizing fluid receiving region (96).

Abstract: The present invention relates to a slurry pumping apparatus for solid-liquid separation. More specifically, the invention provides, in a slurry pumping apparatus arranged such that a diaphragm pump connected to an oil tank is actuated to deliver a hydraulic oil when a predetermined amount of slurry is supplied from a slurry tank to a solid-fluid separator, such as a filter press, which obtains cake from slurry, a slurry pumping apparatus for solid-liquid separation in which the diaphragm pump has its hydraulic pressure chamber connected to a supply/discharge pump through a changeover operation of a change-over valve such that the slurry is pumped to the solid-liquid separator by the operation of the diaphragm pump.

Abstract: A fluid sampling apparatus is disclosed for withdrawing samples of groundwater or other fluids from a well or other monitoring site. The apparatus preferably includes pump means, conduit means and a wellhead assembly that are substantially permanently installed at such well or monitoring site and are thereby dedicated thereto in order to avoid or minimize cross-contamination of samples from site to site. The apparatus preferably also includes a removable and portable controller means adapted for easy and convenient transportation and connection to such dedicated fluid sampling components at various wells or monitoring sites.

Abstract: A hemocompatible flexible diaphragm and flexible wall pumping chamber positioned in a rigid body and actuated by alternating positive and negative fluid pulses. An inlet valve and an outlet valve are integrally molded in the pumping chamber. The diaphragm and pumping chamber are preferably molded of an elastomer. The pump is atraumatic, inexpensive and the pumping chamber and diaphragm are disposable.

Abstract: A method and system for pneumatically driving a pump for an artificial heart is disclosed which can pump blood as approximate as possible to the natural heart without increasing the capacity of any pressure tank. A compensation drive pressure which compensates for the drop of the drive pressure is additionally applied to the pump whenever the drive pressure is applied to the pump.

Abstract: A method and apparatus advantageously using the shapeless and flowing characteristics of a fluid. The fluid is contained with a suitable film chamber having a given shape; a frame or the like may be used as a supporting means for the chamber. The frame-shaped sack is repeatedly filled and exhausted with a fluid; upon being filled with fluid, it is inflated; upon the fluid therein being exhausted, it becomes deflated. A hollow chamber is supported with a film sack by repeatedly filling and exhausting fluid therefrom so as to have the hollow sack inflated and compressed. By using this method, the hollow sack is used as a pump for pumping a fluid therefrom.

Abstract: A peristalitic pump comprising a pump housing accommodating a hose. A hollow space surrounding the hose is provided between the outer wall of the hose and the pump housing. The ends of the hose are sealingly attached all around to corresponding supply and discharge ends of the pump housing. The pump housing is provided with connecting tubes for supplying a pressure medium to the hollow space and discharging the medium therefrom, in order to exert pressure at desired points of time on the outer wall of the hose. The hose has an elliptic cross-sectional form adjacent the supply end along a given trajectory. Starting from the supply end, which is circular in cross-section, the hose becomes gradually flatter and broader to give a minimal value and sequentially in the direction of the hose portion extending toward the discharge end become increasingly less flat and broad in the same manner until the circular cross-section is obtained.

Abstract: A pulsatible outflow, continuous and non-sucking inflow, artificial heart pump utilizes a pump body in which the ends of a pair of passages open at two spaced locations on the body. One of the passages permits only outflow, and the other permits only inflow; the commonly located ends thereof communicate with one another through passively distensible sacs. Discharge of the sacs is achieved with reciprocating pistons, the stroke and timing of which are controlled by a motor-drived cam ring disposed about the pistons and the pump body.

Abstract: A diaphragm pump especially for pumping viscous and abrasive materials including a spherical housing, the inner portion of which defines a pumping chamber together with a cylindrical hose membrane activated by a pulsating medium. One or more hose membranes surround a support pipe having a circular cross section to prevent compressive strain on the membranes during pumping by deformation of the membrane in the inward direction. In an alternative embodiment, a modulated support tube is provided to permit the diaphragm to flap into the indentations of the support tube in a manner neutral to longitudinal extension. Support rings are provided which permit symmetrical arching of the hose diaphragm during the compression stroke.

Abstract: A fluid sampling apparatus is disclosed for withdrawing samples of groundwater or other fluids from a well or other monitoring site. The apparatus preferably includes pump means, conduit means and a wellhead assembly that are substantially permanently installed at such well or monitoring site and are thereby dedicated thereto in order to avoid or minimize cross-contamination of samples from site to site. The apparatus preferably also includes a removable and portable controller means adapted for easy and convenient transportation and connection to such dedicated fluid sampling components at various wells or monitoring sites.

Abstract: The invention is comprised of a hydraulically actuated diaphragm pump having a working diaphragm driven by a piston and a working fluid. The working diaphragm, in turn, actuates a tubular diaphragm through a second hydraulic coupling. Material is pumped through the tubular diaphragm as it is compressed and relaxed. The configuration of the tubular diaphragm is such that its cross section gradually transforms from a circular shape at the end portions adjacent to the suction inlet and discharge outlet of the pump to an elliptical shape at its longitudinal mid-point. Since the inner circumference and wall thickness remain constant throughout the length of the tubular diaphragm the direction of flexure is predetermined.

Abstract: A liquid pump is provided and particularly a downhole pump for use in an oil well bore for pumping oil or in a gas well for removing condensate. The downhole pump includes a plurality of pump and transfer modules, each of which has an elongate housing with end couplings and with two internal gas passages and a liquid passage extending therethrough. The pump module further has a bladder extending between the end couplings around the internal passages with the couplings having passages connecting one of the internal passages to space on one side of the bladder. When fluid, preferably gas, under pressure is supplied through the coupling passages, the bladder forces liquid therein upwardly into the next module. At the same time, fluid under pressure is exhausted through the coupling passages of the next pump module, aiding it to receive liquid from the pump module therebelow.

Abstract: A liquid pump is provided and particularly a downhole pump for use in an oil well bore for pumping oil or in a gas well to remove condensate. The downhole pump includes a plurality of pump and transfer modules, each of which includes an elongate housing with end couplings and with two internal passages extending therethrough. The pump module further has a bladder extending between the end couplings around the internal passages with the couplings having passages connecting one of the internal passages to space on one side of the bladder. When fluid, preferably gas, under pressure is supplied to that passage, the bladder forces liquid therein upwardly into the next module. At the same time, fluid under pressure is exhausted through one of the passages from the space on the opposite side of the bladder of the next pump module, aiding it to receive liquid from the pump module therebelow.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for pumping fluids, especially viscous and/or abrasive fluids, are disclosed. The method comprises using one working fluid to pump an intermediate working fluid, which may be different from the first working fluid, through a conduit system in a smooth and continuous pulsating manner. The intermediate fluid pumps the process fluid through the actual pumping zone. Heat exchange between the intermediate and process fluids may be effected, e.g. by counterflow. The preferred apparatus comprises a hydraulically operated displacement pump. A tubular diaphragm pump is coupled in-line in a pipe line. The tubular diaphragm pump includes a housing coupled to the pipe line, and a tubular diaphragm coupled to the housing in such a manner that the process fluid flows from the pipe line, through the interior of the tubular diaphragm and back into the pipe line. A check valve insures that the process fluid passes through the tubular diaphragm in a single direction.

Abstract: A multiple-stage pump compressor is disclosed for utilization in a heating or cooling system which comprises separate hot and cold containers connected to flexible members within pressure chambers in each of a plurality of pumping stages.

Abstract: A peristaltic pump comprising a pump housing wherein a hose is provided, leaving a hollow space surrounding the hose, while the ends of the hose are sealingly connected all around to the edge of a supply opening resp. discharge opening of the pump housing, and the pump housing being provided with means for supplying a medium to the hollow space, resp. discharging medium therefrom in order to exert pressure on the outer wall of the hose at desired points of time, whereby the hose adjacent the supply end for the material to be pumped is provided with a weakening.

Abstract: A pump system is disclosed for pumping a first fluid from a source to a storage facility comprising a multiple-stage small temperature differential heat-powered pump, a second fluid heater operable to heat a second fluid to a fixed hot temperature, and a third fluid cooler operable to cool a third fluid to a fixed cold temperature, wherein hot fluids and cold fluids are diverted into the multiple-stage small temperature differential heat-powered pump.

Abstract: High frequency medical breathing apparatus is provided, which delivers efficiently controlled high frequency air pulses to a catheter, and which is of relatively low cost and is energized by pressured air that is commonly available in a hospital environment. The apparatus includes a large flexible bag with entrance and exit openings, walls forming a sealed chamber around the bag, and a source that applies pressure pulses to the chamber to partially compress the bag at each pulse so as to deliver air through the exit end of the bag and a check valve, and into a catheter that leads to a patient's lungs.

Abstract: A cardiac prosthesis having an hydraulically actuated compressible blood pump. An actuation chamber adjacent the blood pump receives hydraulic actuation fluid from an actuator pump through a three-way ventricular dump valve to compress the blood pump during systole and eject blood therefrom. During diastole the actuation fluid is permitted to drain from the actuation chamber through the three-way valve into a reservoir.

Abstract: A pump system is disclosed for pumping a first liquid from a source to a storage facility comprising a multiple-stage small temperature differential heat-powered pump, a second liquid heater operable to heat a second liquid to a fixed hot temperature, and a third liquid cooler operable to cool a third liquid to a fixed cold temperature, wherein hot liquids and cold liquids are diverted into the multiple-stage small temperature differential heat-powered pump.

Abstract: A cardiac prosthesis having a hydraulically actuated compressible blood pump. An actuation chamber adjacent the blood pump receives hydraulic actuation fluid from an actuator pump through a three-way ventricular dump valve to compress the blood pump during systole and eject blood therefrom. During diastole the actuation fluid is permitted to drain from the actuation chamber through the three-way valve into a reservoir. The valve includes inlet and outlet manifolds and synchronously movable valve members within each manifold for controlling the flow of actuation fluid into and out of the actuation chamber.

Abstract: A total cardiac prosthesis having a pair of hydraulically actuated compressible blood pumps. An actuation chamber adjacent each blood pump receives hydraulic actuation fluid from a separate actuator pump to compress the blood pump during systole and eject blood therefrom. During diastole the actuation fluid is permitted to drain from the actuation chamber into a reservoir. One of the actuator pumps delivers actuation fluid to its associated actuation chamber through a three-way ventricular dump valve, which directs fluid directly to the reservoir during diastole. The other actuator pump is a reversible pump which repeatedly reverses its pumping direction to effect systole and diastole in its associated blood pump.

Abstract: A solar heating system for preheating water which may be used in conjunction with an existing hot water heater. The use of potable water as the heating fluid renders the use of a heat exchanger unit unnecessary. A novel collector unit is disclosed which includes a molded plastic collector frame with integral fluid passageway. The durable unitized collector design eliminates the need for frame members, additional fluid conduits, specially manufactured collector plates and multiple collector sealing layers. The invention provides an exceptionally low cost, material intensive solar heating system. Pumping systems are provided to facilitate collector operation in conjunction with high or low pressure preheating systems.

Abstract: A cardiac prosthesis having a hydraulically actuated compressible blood pump. An actuation chamber adjacent the blood pump receives pulses of hydraulic actuation fluid from an actuator pump through a fluid inlet path to compress the blood pump during systole and eject blood therefrom. Between pulses the actuation fluid is permitted to drain from the actuation chamber through an outlet path into a reservoir. Discharge of fluid through the outlet path is controlled by a dump valve which is adapted to close or open the outlet path primarily in response to forces which vary as a function of the flow of actuation fluid through the fluid inlet path.

Abstract: A cardiac prosthesis having a hydraulically actuated compressible blood pump. An actuation chamber adjacent the blood pump receives pulses of hydraulic actuation fluid from an actuator pump through a fluid inlet path to compress the blood pump during systole and eject blood therefrom. Between pulses the actuation fluid is permitted to drain from the actuation chamber through an outlet path into a reservoir. Discharge of fluid through the outlet path is controlled by a dump valve which is adapted to close or open the outlet path primarily in response to forces which vary as a function of the flow of actuation fluid through the fluid inlet path.

Abstract: A perfusion pump comprising an assembly of inner and outer tubes interconnected by a field of perforations, a chamber configured to closely contain the tube assembly, valving apparatus for substantially closing the ends of the inner tube by compression against the chamber, and sources of positive and negative pressure gas selectively applicable against the wall of the outer tube.

Abstract: A liquid pump is provided and particularly a downhole pump for use in an oil well bore for pumping oil or in a gas well to remove condensate. The downhole pump includes a plurality of pump and transfer modules, each of which includes an elongate housing with end couplings and with two internal passages extending therethrough. The pump module further has a bladder extending between the end couplings around the internal passages with the couplings having passages connecting one of the internal passages to space on one side of the bladder. When fluid, preferably gas, under pressure is supplied to that passage, the bladder forces liquid therein upwardly into the next module. At the same time, fluid under pressure is exhausted through one of the passages from the space on the opposite side of the bladder of the next pump module, aiding it to receive liquid from the pump module therebelow.

Abstract: A pulsatile blood pump comprising a disposable power bladder of flexible and anticoagulative material which is provided with a suction port with an inlet check valve and a delivery port with an outlet check valve to constitute a blood pump unit and hermetically sealed container for receiving said blood pump unit, said container being connected to a pulsating mechanism and filled with a pressure transmissive fluid which is subjected to a pulsatile pressure generated by the pulsating mechanism to vary the volume of the power bladder for pulsatile blood delivery.

Abstract: A diaphragm pump comprises a body defining a chamber in which a diaphragm is arranged to divide the chamber into a drive chamber and a pump chamber. The pump chamber has an inlet and an outlet for fluid to be pumped, each of the inlet and outlet being provided with a one-way valve. The drive chamber has an inlet for driving fluid and the inlet is provided with a valve which is open under normal operating conditions of the pump. The valve is arranged so that, if a high pressure persists in the pump chamber when the pressure in the drive chamber is relieved causing the diaphragm to expand, the diaphragm will contact the movable valve member of the valve to move it to a position closing the inlet opening so that the drive chamber is isolated from the drive fluid pressure variations while the abnormal pressure subsists in the pump chamber.

Abstract: A pump system is disclosed for pumping a first liquid from a source to a storage facility comprising a multiple-stage small temperature differential heat-powered pump, a second liquid heater operable to heat a second liquid to a fixed hot temperature, and a third liquid cooler operable to cool a third liquid to a fixed cold temperature, wherein hot liquids and cold liquids are diverted into the multiple-stage small temperature differential heat-powered pump.

Abstract: Apparatus for dispensing a liquid beverage concentrate comprises a concente reservoir, a resilient dispensing tube having one end in communication with the reservoir via a non-return valve opening into the tube and having an opposite dispensing end provided with a non-return valve opening outwardly, and a pressure fluid device for squeezing a portion of the dispensing tube so as to force a quantity of concentrate through the dispensing end of the tube, the pressure fluid device including a deformable sleeve loosely fitting over the tube and separating the tube from the pressure fluid.

Abstract: A pump device for intermittently pumping fluid, comprises a pump house having a primary portion and a secondary portion forming a space therebetween. The pump house includes an inlet opening for admitting fluid into the space and an outlet opening. An elastic membrane is disposed in the space between the primary and secondary parts and includes a secondary side facing the inlet and outlet openings. Pulsating pressure waves are applied against the membrane for displacing the membrane such that the secondary side thereof initially closes the inlet opening and thereafter expresses fluid from the space through the outlet opening.

Abstract: A down hole pump (10) placed in a well bore for pumping liquid comprises a pump body (12) with a longitudinal axis adapted to be placed in the well bore and submerged in the liquid. A gas pressure conduit (28) is connected between the pump body (12) and the well surface for supplying pressurized gas to the pump body (12). An exhaust conduit (30) is connected to the pump body (12) for conducting the liquid to the well surface. A one-way valve (54) is disposed in the pump body (12) and is connected to the exhaust conduit (30). An elastic diaphragm (40) is located in the pump body (12) and is movable in response to a pressure differential between the diaphragm (40) and the pump body (12) for displacing liquid from the diaphragm (40) when the pressure in the pump body (12) is greater than that in the diaphragm (40) and for expanding with the liquid when the pressure in the pump body (12 ) is lower than that in the diaphragm (40).

Abstract: A continuous length of flexible polymeric tubing having a smooth fissureless inner surface throughout is provided with a region intermediate its ends which region has an inside diameter greater than the inside diameter of the remainder of said tubing and a thinner wall than that of the remainder of said tubing with a gradual transition in wall thickness and diameter therebetween. A rigid walled enclosure surrounds said region of the tubing with a slight clearance therebetween except at the ends of the enclosure which encircle the tubing beyond said region with a snug fit. A duct is joined to the enclosure near one end for feeding fluid under pressure thereto. Various arrangements of over-pressure relief prevent pinching of the tubing while affording controlled indentation thereof. The transition section of the tubing wall can cooperate with a port in the enclosure to afford said overpressure relief. Portions of the tubing wall may be thickened (i.e.

Abstract: A blood pump for implant or paracorporeal use having a rigid case with inlet and outlet valves defining a pumping cavity; an integral thin walled flexible sac freely confined within a pumping cavity; and a flexible diaphragm within the cavity conforming to the shape of the adjacent side of the sac. The case includes a control ring projecting into the cavity between the diaphragm and sac. The diaphragm is moved between diastolic and systolic positions to pump blood through the valves. During pumping, the ring distributes flexing of the diaphragm over an increased area while also preventing the interior walls of the sac from contacting each other. The outlet port and the portion of the sac immediately surrounding the outlet port are less flexible than the remainder of the sac away from the port and the portion of the diaphragm overlying the outlet port is less flexible than the remainder of the diaphragm.

Abstract: A pump has a tubular membrane (14) deformed cylindrically by fluid driving pressure to produce an artificial blood circulation. The pump has a feeler (42) which follows the deformation of membrane (14) and operates a switch (102) to close the circuit of an optical signalling device (103) when the deformation of the membrane (14) reaches a predetermined value. A control circuit (104) may be provided for the automatic regulation of the fluid driving pressure acting on the membrane (14) in dependence upon the duration of the closure time of the switch (102). (FIG. 7).

Abstract: An adjustable mechanical damper for the diaphragm of a fuel pump of a type in which the diaphragm is pulsated by fluctuations in engine crankcase pressure is provided to regulate the amplitude of diaphragm pulsations and the incremental volumetric change produced in the diaphragm-enclosed chamber by the pulsations. Provision of the damper renders the fuel pump self-compensating for changes in fuel head pressure and insures constancy in the output response of the fuel pump to crankcase pressure.

Abstract: A pump, characterized by flexible tubes which are cyclically expanded and contracted to cause fluid to be pumped, comprises a pair of liquid filled cylinders each containing a flexible tube connected to inlet and outlet valves, a liquid filled control cylinder communicating at its opposite ends with respective ones of said pump cylinders, and a piston reciprocable in said control cylinder for alternately transferring fluid to and from said pump cylinders for alternately and cyclically expanding and contracting said tubes to cause fluid to be pumped in a double acting pump action. The pump is especially well suited for pumping abrasive and corrosive slurries, heavily pigmented and/or metal filled coating materials and the like. The pump is characterized by improved piston means, improved sealing and retaining means for both the piston and the tubes, and means for detecting leakage across the piston, whereby to increase pump reliability and longevity of service, and to monitor internal pump conditions.

Abstract: A heat-powered water pump including a vapor generator and a vapor-inflatable pumping member enclosed in a pumping chamber. The vapor generator and pumping member form a closed system for a volatile working fluid. Check valves control the movement of vapor and condensate through the closed system as well as the direction of water through the pump. The vapor generator is configurated to be heated either by a solar concentrator or by heat from combustion of agricultural wastes. The expandable diaphragm/pumping piston operates in a pumping chamber having a diametrally enlarged check valve above the diaphragm to accommodate the rapid explusion of water from the pumping chamber upon expansion of the expandable diaphragm.

Abstract: A pump having two collapsible pumping chambers connected in series is coupled to a pump drive mechanism which opens and closes each chamber in a sequence that produces pumping action.

Abstract: An impulse pump is disclosed. In one embodiment, the impulse pump utilizes an elongate tubular outer housing which surrounds an axial passage. The axial passage is lined with a tubular resilient member. The resilient lining fits snugly against the wall of the housing except at an encircling annulus in the housing. The annulus is isolated. It is filled with a fluid material which dissociates when exposed to high temperatures as will occur in the formation of an electrical spark. An electrical spark is formed in the annulus to increase the pressure in the annulus. When this occurs, it increases so much that a bulge is formed in the flexible lining, and the bulge ripples along the flexible lining as a source of compression pumping. The pressure in the lining exceeds the back pressure of the fluid to initiate the pumping action.

Abstract: A pneumatic pump adapted primarily as a left ventricular heart assist device includes a flexible bladder with a rigid housing. A pneumatic driver applies rhythmical pulses between the bladder and the housing to repetitively collapse the bladder and establish a pumping action through the bladder, in conjunction with check valves in the inlet and outlet to the bladder. Between the driver and the pump there is provided a pneumatic pulse limiter which includes a flexible diaphragm isolating the driver from the pump. Pulses from the driver are transmitted to the pump only through the flexible diaphragm and the diaphragm is constrained to move only within established limits. Regardless of the magnitude of the pulse from the driver, the maximum pulse applied to the pump cannot exceed that corresponding to the maximum displacement of the diaphragm.Between successive pulses, the portion of the system between the driver and the flexible diaphragm is depressurized.