Control Element Is Fluid Pressure Sensitive Patents (Class 422/112)
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Publication number: 20040258609Abstract: Methods and systems for regenerating and pretreating oxides of manganese and precipitation of oxides of manganese from manganese salt solutions. Oxides of manganese, a slurry containing oxides of manganese or manganese salt solutions are mixed with heated aqueous oxidizing solutions and processed in a continuous process reactor. Temperature, pressure, Eh value, and pH value of the mixed solution are monitored and adjusted so as to maintain solution conditions within the MnO2 stability area during processing. This results in regenerated, pretreated and precipitated oxides of manganese having high or increased pollutant loading capacities and/or oxidation states. Oxides of manganese thus produced are, amongst other uses; suitable for use as a sorbent for capturing or removing target pollutants from industrial gas streams. Filtrate process streams containing useful and recoverable value present as spectator ions may be further processed to produce useful and marketable by-products.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 28, 2004Publication date: December 23, 2004Inventors: Richard M. Boren, Charles F. Hammel
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Publication number: 20040219080Abstract: A gas siphon type reactor (10) is used to carry out a three phase chemical reaction under pressure, such as the reduction of uranyl nitrate to uranous nitrate by hydrogen, in the presence of a catalyst made up of platinum on a silica carrier. The control of the pressure in the reactor (10) is provided by regulating the liquid and gas flow rates from a high-pressure separator (52), into which the liquid and the gas leaving the reactor (10) are routed. The liquid in the reactor (10) is tapped from a lateral branch pipe (32) fitted with a filter (36) and emerging in the upper area (30), behind a profiled wall (34).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2004Publication date: November 4, 2004Applicant: Compagnie Generale Des Matieres NucleairesInventors: Pietro Bilardello, Nicolas Durupt, Renaud Pontier
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Publication number: 20040202903Abstract: A production system includes a reaction chamber having an inlet and outlet, a gas collection chamber coupled with the reaction chamber and a regulator coupled to the gas collection chamber. The regulator controls the flow of reactant to the reaction chamber in response to the pressure in the gas collection chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 10, 2003Publication date: October 14, 2004Inventors: John A. deVos, Louis Barinaga, Suraj L. Hindagolla
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Publication number: 20040202588Abstract: An apparatus for producing a purified aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution. The apparatus includes at least one purifier tower packed with an ion exchange resin, a chelate resin or an adsorption resin for receiving a charged aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution containing impurities so as to effect contact thereof with the ion exchange resin, chelate resin or adsorption resin, thereby purifying the charged aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution, which apparatus further comprises a feed pump of given output capable of causing the charged aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution to flow to the purifier tower, a flow sensor capable of sensing a flow rate of charged aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution being fed to the purifier tower by means of the feed pump, and a flow control unit capable of controlling the output of the feed pump on the basis of a detection result of the flow sensor so as to maintain the flow of charged aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution being fed to the purifier tower at a constant rate.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 29, 2004Publication date: October 14, 2004Inventors: Fujio Tanaka, Takashi Adachi, Toshimi Suzuki, Mutsuro Noguchi, Tomoaki Kobayashi
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Publication number: 20040199295Abstract: A hydrogen fuel supply system includes a hydrogen generator for generating hydrogen from an energy source at an outlet pressure. An outlet conduit feeds the hydrogen to a user. A controller controls the hydrogen generator to produce hydrogen at the outlet pressure. An input interface receives user demand data and activates the controller in accordance with the user demand data.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 2004Publication date: October 7, 2004Inventors: Matthew J. Fairlie, William J. Stewart, Andrew T. B. Stuart, Steven J. Thorpe, Charlie Dong
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Publication number: 20040197238Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining which condition in a fuel processor has initiated a shutdown of the fuel processor are disclosed. In general, the apparatus generates a plurality of shutdown initiator signals, each corresponding to one of a plurality of shutdown conditions and indicating whether such condition is present. The shutdown initiator signals are read within a predetermined window. At least one of the read shutdown initiator signals indicates that a corresponding first shutdown condition has occurred and identifies the corresponding first shutdown condition as the firstout.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 4, 2003Publication date: October 7, 2004Inventors: Vesna R. Mirkovic, W. Spencer Wheat
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Patent number: 6793699Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus for online and on-site tracer generation for tagging natural gas stored in underground storage fields wherein feedstock is drawn from a feedstock source. The feedstock undergoes initial analysis to determine hydrocarbons levels. The feedstock then undergoes reaction to produce tracers such as ethylene, propylene, acetylene hydrogen and carbon monoxide. The feedstock is then analyzed to determine post reaction tracer concentration. The feedstock including generated tracers is then introduced back into the feedstock stream. Tracer levels in the pre-reaction or initial analysis of feedstock are compared with tracer levels in the post-reaction feedstock and the rate of flow of feedstock through the system is adjusted to achieve a predetermined level of tracer concentration. The level of tracer concentration will then be used to identify the particular natural gas charge in a storage field.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2002Date of Patent: September 21, 2004Inventors: Dennis D. Coleman, Rodney R. Ruch, Shiaoguo Chen, Massoud Rostam-Abadi
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Publication number: 20040131508Abstract: An energy distribution network for providing hydrogen fuel to a user comprising; energy source means; hydrogen production means to receive the energy from the energy resource means; hydrogen fuel user means to receive hydrogen from the hydrogen production means; and data collection, storage, control and supply means linked to the energy resource means, the hydrogen production means, and the hydrogen fuel user means to determine, control and supply hydrogen from the hydrogen production means. Preferably, the network comprises one or more water electrolysers and provides for the distribution of hydrogen, for use as a fuel for vehicles, fuel cells, electrical and thermal generators, and the like.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2003Publication date: July 8, 2004Inventors: Matthew J. Fairlie, William J. Stewart, Andrew T.B. Stuart, Steven J. Thorpe, Charlie Dong
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Patent number: 6749816Abstract: A high-pressure treatment apparatus comprises a first solid reservoir, a second solid reservoir connected to the first solid reservoir through a first connecting pipe, a high-pressure reactor connected to the second solid reservoir through a second connecting pipe, means for feeding reaction medium into the high-pressure reactor, a first sealing unit and a second sealing unit intervened respectively in the first connecting pipe and second connecting pipe, a first fluid feed unit for feeding a first fluid between the first sealing unit and the second sealing unit, a second fluid feed unit for feeding a second fluid between the second sealing unit and the high-pressure reactor, and means for opening the second sealing unit at the time of shut-off of the first sealing unit and controlling the first fluid and the second fluid to form a pressure-gradient so that pressure between the first sealing unit and the second sealing unit and pressure between the second sealing unit and the high-pressure reactor decrease grType: GrantFiled: December 27, 1999Date of Patent: June 15, 2004Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventors: Yutaka Hasegawa, Kazuya Yamada, Yoshie Akai, Norihisa Saito, Yoshikazu Matsubayashi, Yasushi Yamaguchi, Hisao Oomura, Yumiko Abe, Atsushi Ohara
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Publication number: 20040067395Abstract: A fuel processing device for converting a raw fuel fluid including hydrocarbon, alcohols, or ethers into a hydrogen fuel gas including hydrogen by a catalytic reaction, having one or more catalytic reactors each including a space maintaining a catalyst therein, with the catalytic reactor including deoxidizing means formed of a deoxidizing material, is provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 1, 2003Publication date: April 8, 2004Applicant: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Mitsuaki Nakata, Mitsuie Matsumura, Yoji Fujita, Yoshiaki Odai, Yoshihide Gonjo
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Publication number: 20040063567Abstract: A method of reactivating a catalyst, such as a solid catalyst or a liquid catalyst. The method comprises providing a catalyst that is at least partially deactivated by fouling agents. The catalyst is contacted with a fluid reactivating agent that is at or above a critical point of the fluid reactivating agent and is of sufficient density to dissolve impurities. The fluid reactivating agent reacts with at least one fouling agent, releasing the at least one fouling agent from the catalyst. The at least one fouling agent becomes dissolved in the fluid reactivating agent and is subsequently separated or removed from the fluid reactivating agent so that the fluid reactivating agent may be reused. A system for reactivating a catalyst is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 3, 2003Publication date: April 1, 2004Inventors: Daniel M. Ginosar, David N. Thompson, Raymond P. Anderson
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Publication number: 20040022694Abstract: A processing apparatus includes a sealed vacuum chamber which contains a processing portion; a pressure controlling system which keeps the internal pressure of the sealed vacuum chamber constant at a predetermined level by exhausting the ambient gas in the sealed vacuum chamber; and an ambient gas recirculating system which recirculates the ambient gas exhausted from the sealed vacuum chamber back into the sealed vacuum chamber; wherein the ambient as recirculated by the ambient gas recirculating system is blown into the sealed vacuum chamber so that a gas flow is generated in a predetermined direction along the processing portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 16, 2003Publication date: February 5, 2004Applicant: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Shinichi Hara, Yutaka Tanaka, Shigeru Terashima, Takayuki Hasegawa, Shin Matsui
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Publication number: 20040013602Abstract: Apparatus for producing nano-particles according to the present invention may comprise a furnace defimng a vapor region therein. A precipitation conduit having an inlet end and an outlet end is positioned with respect to the furnace so that the inlet end is open to the vapor region. A quench fluid supply apparatus supplies quench fluid in a gas state and quench fluid in a liquid state. A quench fluid port positioned within the precipitation conduit is fluidically connected to the quench fluid supply apparatus so that an inlet to the quench fluid port receives quench fluid in the gas state and quench fluid in the liquid state. The quench fluid port provides a quench fluid stream to the precipitation conduit to precipitate nano-particles within the precipitation conduit. A product collection apparatus connected to the outlet end of the precipitation conduit collects the nano-particles produced within the precipitation conduit.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2003Publication date: January 22, 2004Inventor: Joel A. Taube
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Publication number: 20030213520Abstract: Apparatus for maintaining a predefined pressure in one or more reactors to which pressures from 1 to 500 bar can be applied, with simultaneous measurement of the gas mass flow, comprising at least one buffer container (A) which is equipped with a pressure gauge (B) and can be filled with gas via at least one valve (C), and the buffer container (A) being connected to at least one reactor (F) which is likewise equipped with a pressure gauge (B′), characterized in that the connection between buffer container and reactor contains a restrictor (D) and a valve (E) which is controlled via a control unit (H) which is connected to the pressure gauges of the reactor (F) and of the buffer container (A) via control lines.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 10, 2003Publication date: November 20, 2003Applicant: Bayer AktiengesellschaftInventors: Thomas Prinz, Matthias Stenger, Peter Jahn, Ralf Duster
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Patent number: 6630109Abstract: A control apparatus for a reformer and a method of controlling the reformer are provided. The reformer gasifies a reformate fuel by a reforming reaction, supplies the obtained reformate gas to an energy converter to convert the reformate gas into energy of another form, and heats the reformate fuel by burning emission containing unreacted flammable gas produced in the energy converter. The control apparatus comprises a reforming amount assessing device for assessing the amount of the reformate fuel to be gasified, and an emission amount assessing device for assessing the amount of emission to be supplied into the reformer on the basis of the assessed amount of reformate fuel. When using the unreacted hydrogen gas generated in a fuel cell for heating the reformate fuel, the unreacted hydrogen gas and combustion aid gas can be controlled so that the reformate fuel is heated properly.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 1999Date of Patent: October 7, 2003Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Masaaki Yamaoka, Masashi Yamashita, Kiyomi Nagamiya, Yoshikazu Motozono, Iwao Maeda, Masayoshi Taki
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Publication number: 20030167690Abstract: Feedstock delivery systems for fuel processors, and fuel processing systems incorporating the same. In some embodiments, the feedstock delivery system includes at least one pressurized tank or other reservoir that is adapted to store in liquid form a feedstock for a fuel processor. The delivery system further includes a pressurization assembly that is adapted to pressurize the reservoir by delivering a stream of pressurized gas thereto. In some embodiments, the gas is at least substantially comprised of nitrogen or other inert gases. In some embodiments, the gas is a nitrogen-enriched or a reduced-oxygen air stream. In some embodiments, the delivery system includes a sensor assembly that is adapted to monitor the concentration of oxygen in, and/or being delivered to, the reservoir(s). In some embodiments, the delivery system includes a pumpless delivery system that regulates the delivery under pressure of the feedstock from the tank to the fuel processor.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 3, 2003Publication date: September 11, 2003Inventors: David J. Edlund, Arne LaVen, Jeffrey R. Pledger, Curtiss Renn
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Patent number: 6616898Abstract: A processing apparatus includes a sealed vacuum chamber which contains a processing portion; a pressure controlling system which keeps the internal pressure of the sealed vacuum chamber constant at a predetermined level by exhausting the ambient gas in the sealed vacuum chamber; and an ambient gas recirculating system which recirculates the ambient gas exhausted from the sealed vacuum chamber back into the sealed vacuum chamber; wherein the ambient gas recirculated by the ambient gas recirculating system is blown into the sealed vacuum chamber so that a gas flow is generated in a predetermined direction along the processing portion.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 1999Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Shinichi Hara, Yutaka Tanaka, Shigeru Terashima, Takayuki Hasegawa, Shin Matsui
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Publication number: 20030157008Abstract: System for removal of targeted pollutants, such as oxides of sulfur, oxides of nitrogen, mercury compounds and ash, from combustion and other industrial process gases and processes utilizing the system. Oxides of manganese are utilized as the primary sorbent in the system for removal or capture of pollutants. The oxides of manganese are introduced from feeders into reaction zones of the system where they are contacted with a gas from which pollutants are to be removed. With respect to pollutant removal, the sorbent may interact with a pollutant as a catalyst, reactant, adsorbent or absorbent. Removal may occur in single-stage, dual-stage, or multi-stage systems with a variety of different configurations and reaction zones, e.g., bag house, cyclones, fluidized beds, and the like. Process parameters, particularly system differential pressure, are controlled by electronic controls to maintain minimal system differential pressure, and to monitor and adjust pollutant removal efficiencies.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2002Publication date: August 21, 2003Applicant: EnviroScrub Technologies CorporationInventors: John E. Pahlman, Steve C. Carlton, Ray V. Huff, Charles F. Hammel, Richard M. Boren, Kevin P. Kronbeck, Joshua E. Larson, Patrick A. Tuzinski, Steve G. Axen
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Patent number: 6592827Abstract: There is provided an automated sampling system for taking polymer samples from a fluidized bed, gas phase reaction system which utilizes at least one volatile, hazardous monomer. The sampling system provides minimal sample-to-sample variability, improved reactor control and polymerization operability which minimizing potential exposure or release of the volatile, hazardous monomers.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2000Date of Patent: July 15, 2003Assignee: Univation Technologies LLCInventors: Daniel Paul Zilker, Jr., Christopher Scott Hunnisett, Donald Robert Fields, Kiu Hee Lee
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Publication number: 20030118505Abstract: The process for producing hydrogen gas according to the present invention consists of reacting aluminum with water in the presence of sodium hydroxide as a catalyst. An apparatus for carrying out the method is also described. The apparatus comprises an expandable container wherein the pressure and temperature of the reaction causes the container to expand and contract to control the degree of immersion of a fuel cartridge in water and consequently to control the intensity and duration of the reaction.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2002Publication date: June 26, 2003Inventors: Erling Reidar Andersen, Erling Jim Andersen
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Publication number: 20030118488Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a system for automatically injecting chemicals into a pressurized system.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 6, 2002Publication date: June 26, 2003Inventor: Leonard E. McKeary
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Publication number: 20030113239Abstract: Systems and process for wet and combinations of wet and dry removal of targeted pollutants, such as oxides of sulfur, oxides of nitrogen, and oxides of carbon from combustion and other industrial process gases and processes utilizing the system. Oxides of manganese are utilized as the primary sorbent in the system for removal or capture of pollutants. In wet removal, oxides of manganese are mixed in a slurry which is introduced into reaction zones of the system. In dry removal, the oxides of manganese are introduced from feeders into reaction zones of the system where they are contacted with a gas from which pollutants are to be removed. Removal may occur in single-stage, dual-stage, or multi-stage systems with at least one of the reaction zones being a wet scrubber. A variety dry scrubber may be utilized in combination wet and dry removal systems.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2001Publication date: June 19, 2003Inventors: John E. Pahlman, Kathleen S. Pahlman, Steven C. Carlton, Ray V. Huff, Charles F. Hammel, Richard M. Boren, Kevin P. Kronbeck, Joshua E. Larson, Patrick A. Tuzinski, Steve G. Axen
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Publication number: 20030095891Abstract: A sterilizing apparatus and method in which a sanitizing device detects pressure of steam rather than temperature. The pressure is related to a desired temperature, but detection of pressure means that temperature sensors do not need to be exposed to the steam. In addition, the steam can be fully saturated, and sterilization can be obtained without the need for a drying cycle. The liquid does not need to be reused in the apparatus, ensuring that biofilm contamination of articles can be substantially reduced.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 20, 2001Publication date: May 22, 2003Inventor: William O'Neal
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Publication number: 20030068258Abstract: A reactor includes a cylindrical chamber having an opening transverse to an axial direction of the cylindrical chamber, a cover movable along the axial direction between an open state in which the cover is away from the opening of the cylindrical chamber, and a closed state in which the cover seals the opening of the cylindrical chamber, and an actuator unit connected to said cover. An apparatus for producing aluminum nitride including the reactor is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2002Publication date: April 10, 2003Applicant: NATIONAL CHENG KUNG UNIVERSITYInventors: Shyan-Lung Chung, Chun-Nan Lin, Jeng-Chiuan Chen, Shui-Chin Liu
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Publication number: 20030065453Abstract: A system and method for monitoring and control operation of a rotary disk refiner. A characteristic of stock in the refining zone is monitored and used to adjust a parameter, such as dilution water, feed screw speed and/or refiner gap to keep some variable substantially constant, close to a setpoint, within a range of the setpoint, close to a setpoint profile based on a distribution of a characteristic over the refining zone or a setpoint profile range. Refiner disk bar angle can be optimized to reduce refining zone temperature and energy use. Thereafter, the control method can be employed. One control method attempts to keep specific energy substantially constant by keeping a ratio between load and production substantially constant. Load is kept substantially constant by regulation dilution flow to keep refining zone temperature substantially constant. The feed screw is regulated to keep production substantially constant.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2002Publication date: April 3, 2003Inventor: Ola M. Johansson
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Publication number: 20030031604Abstract: Processes and apparatus for quantitatively converting urea to ammonia on demand are disclosed. One process includes the steps of: receiving a demand rate signal for ammonia; feeding reactants including urea and water into a reactor to provide a reaction mixture; and controlling temperature and pressure in the reactor to produce a gaseous product stream including ammonia and carbon dioxide at substantially constant concentrations. Another process includes the steps of: feeding molten urea or solid urea to a reactor; feeding water (liquid or steam) to the reactor; and reacting the urea and water at elevated temperature and pressure to form a gaseous product stream including ammonia and carbon dioxide.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2001Publication date: February 13, 2003Inventors: Burton Brooks, Walter A. Jessup, Brian W. MacArthur, W. Brad Sheats
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Publication number: 20030017087Abstract: Method and apparatus for abating F2 from byproducts generated during cleaning of a processing chamber. F2 abatement is efficiently performed by directly injecting H2 in line with a foreline exiting the processing chamber. A tube which is highly resistant to oxidation and corrosive gases, even at high temperature, is connected in line with the foreline as part of the exhaust line of the processing chamber. A cooling jacket may be provided for cooling the tube, since the reaction between F2 and H2 is exothermic. A pressure monitoring arrangement may also be employed to insure that pressure within a hydrogen line, that feed the injection of H2 into the tube, does not exceed a predetermined pressure value.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2001Publication date: January 23, 2003Applicant: Applied Materials Inc.Inventors: Himanshu Pokharna, Phong Le, Srinivas D. Nemani
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Publication number: 20030012709Abstract: Integral blocks, chemical delivery systems and methods for delivering an ultrapure chemical to a point of use or to another integral block are provided. More particularly, the integral blocks include a recharge container block, a pressurization gas block, a purge gas block, a waste recovery block, a vacuum block, a solvent supply block, a degas block, a control block, and a filtration block. Various integral blocks may be selected to form a chemical delivery system, which is particularly suited for a given application. A chemical delivery system will typically comprise a chemical container block, a chemical delivery block, and a point of use in line with the chemical container block and chemical delivery block, as well as one or more integral blocks.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2002Publication date: January 16, 2003Inventors: Mindi Xu, Tay Sayasane, Joseph E. Paganessi, Gregory M. Jursich, Naoyuki Nakamoto, Yukinobu Nishikawa, Herve E. Dulphy, Guillaume Rameau, Lorrin Honda
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Patent number: 6495366Abstract: This invention describes a method for pumping or delivering fluids utilizing a flexible vessel subject to controlled pressures within another pressure vessel. The pressure vessel can be sourced with positive and/or negative (e.g., vacuum) pressure.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 1999Date of Patent: December 17, 2002Assignee: Therakos, Inc.Inventor: Dennis A. Briggs
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Patent number: 6488895Abstract: Multiplexed microfluidic devices include a plurality of modular microfluidic elements, all of which are attached to a common frame or substrate, which itself includes one or more common input elements that are connected to corresponding input elements within several or each of the microfluidic modules for use in common control and/or common detection operations for each of the modules.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2000Date of Patent: December 3, 2002Assignee: Caliper Technologies Corp.Inventor: Colin B. Kennedy
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Patent number: 6485649Abstract: Input water is preheated in a heat exchanger (2), pumped (4) through another heat exchanger (5) into a heating unit (6). The heating unit heats the water to a temperature of above 100° C., preferably 140-150° C., while maintaining the water in a liquid state without vaporization. A pump (8) feeds the heated water under sufficient pressure to prevent vaporization to at least one crossflow filtration unit (9). A portion of the heated water passes through a thermally stable filtration material having a pore size of 1-20 nanometers for filtering endotoxins and pyrogens, 4-10 nanometers for filtering viruses, or 100 nanometers−30 &mgr;m for filtering bacteria. Heated water which has passed through the filtration material is fed through a pure water product outlet of the filtration unit to a pure water outlet (16). A retenate portion of the heated water flows past the filtration material to carry filtered impurities through a retenate output line (10).Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2000Date of Patent: November 26, 2002Assignee: Steris Europe, Inc.Inventors: Jorma Terävä, Teppo Nurminen
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Publication number: 20020168302Abstract: System for removal of targeted pollutants, such as oxides of sulfur, oxides of nitrogen, mercury compounds and ash, from combustion and other industrial process gases and processes utilizing the system. Oxides of manganese are utilized as the primary sorbent in the system for removal or capture of pollutants. The oxides of manganese are introduced from feeders into reaction zones of the system where they are contacted with a gas from which pollutants are to be removed. With respect to pollutant removal, the sorbent may interact with a pollutant as a catalyst, reactant, adsorbent or absorbent. Removal may occur in single-stage, dual-stage, or multi-stage systems with a variety of different configurations and reaction zones, e.g., bag house, cyclones, fluidized beds, and the like. Process parameters, particularly system differential pressure, are controlled by electronic controls to maintain minimal system differential pressure, and to monitor and adjust pollutant removal efficiencies.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2001Publication date: November 14, 2002Inventors: John E. Pahlman, Kathleen S. Pahlman, Steve C. Carlton, Ray V. Huff, Charles F. Hammel, Richard M. Boren, Kevin P. Kronbeck, Joshua E. Larson, Patrick A. Tuzinski, Steve G. Axen
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Patent number: 6479301Abstract: The invention provides devices for preparing a reaction substrate for use as an assay device, and methods of using these devices. The devices prepare reaction substrates comprising arrays of biosites bound to reaction substrates. The devices have a plurality of bundled capillary tubes that convey capture probes from a storage area for eventual deposition onto a biosite on a reaction substrate.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2000Date of Patent: November 12, 2002Assignee: Genometrix Genomics IncorporatedInventors: William J. Balch, Michael E. Hogan
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Publication number: 20020150516Abstract: System for removal of targeted pollutants, such as oxides of sulfur, oxides of nitrogen, mercury compounds and ash, from combustion and other industrial process gases and processes utilizing the system. Oxides of manganese are utilized as the primary sorbent in the system for removal or capture of pollutants. The oxides of manganese are introduced from feeders into reaction zones of the system where they are contacted with a gas from which pollutants are to be removed. With respect to pollutant removal, the sorbent may interact with a pollutant as a catalyst, reactant, adsorbent or absorbent. Removal may occur in single-stage, dual-stage, or multi-stage systems with a variety of different configurations and reaction zones, e.g., bag house, cyclones, fluidized beds, and the like. Process parameters, particularly system differential pressure, are controlled by electronic controls to maintain minimal system differential pressure, and to monitor and adjust pollutant removal efficiencies.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 11, 2002Publication date: October 17, 2002Applicant: EnviroScrub Technologies CorporationInventors: John E. Pahlman, Kathleen S. Pahlman, Steve C. Carlton, Ray V. Huff, Charles F. Hammel, Richard M. Boren, Kevin P. Kronbeck, Joshua E. Larson, Patrick A. Tuzinski, Steve G. Axen
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Publication number: 20020122757Abstract: A method and an apparatus for preparing aluminum nitride are disclosed. The method includes the steps of (a) providing an aluminum container, (b) providing a reactant to be received in the aluminum container, and proceeding at least one step selected from a group consisting of step (b1), step (b2) and a combination thereof, (c) placing the aluminum container into a reactor with a specific pressure and introducing nitrogen gas into the reactor, and (d) heating the reactant at a specific temperature till igniting, thereby preparing the aluminum nitride. The step (b1) is placing a layer of an aluminum nitride powder between the reactant and the aluminum container, and the step (b2) is perpendicularly placing at least one aluminum pipe into the reactant.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 4, 2001Publication date: September 5, 2002Applicant: National Cheng Kung UniversityInventors: Shyan-Lung Chung, Chun-Nan Lin, Jen-Chang Chen, Zheng-Xiuo Lin, Jing-Yuan Liu
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Publication number: 20020116872Abstract: A fuel processing assembly adapted to produce hydrogen gas from a carbon-containing feedstock. The fuel processing assembly includes a fuel processor, such as a steam reformer. The fuel processing assembly further includes a feed assembly adapted to deliver a carbon-containing feedstock, such as a hydrocarbon, to the fuel processor. In some embodiments, the fuel processing system includes a fuel cell stack that includes at least one fuel cell adapted to produce electrical power from hydrogen gas produced by the fuel processor.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 19, 2002Publication date: August 29, 2002Inventors: David J. Edlund, Thomas G. Herron
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Publication number: 20020094306Abstract: A processing apparatus includes a sealed vacuum chamber which contains a processing portion; a pressure controlling system which keeps the internal pressure of the sealed vacuum chamber constant at a predetermined level by exhausting the ambient gas in the sealed vacuum chamber; and an ambience gas recirculating system which recirculates the ambience gas exhausted from the sealed vacuum chamber back into the sealed vacuum chamber; wherein the ambience gas recirculated by the ambience. gas recirculating system is blown into the sealed vacuum chamber so that a gas flow is generated in a predetermined direction along the processing portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 1999Publication date: July 18, 2002Inventors: SHINICHI HARA, YUTAKA TANAKA, SHIGERU TERASHIMA, TAKAYUKI HASEGAWA, SHIN MATSUI
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Publication number: 20020081235Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for controlling the dissociation of water into hydrogen and oxygen, the method including contacting a quantity of aqueous liquid with a quantity of dissociation initiating material in a reaction vessel; monitoring the temperature and/or pressure in the reaction vessel; monitoring the surface area of dissociation initiating material in contact with the aqueous liquid; and controlling the surface area of dissociation initiating material in contact with the aqueous liquid in response to the temperature, pressure, or both, or changes therein, or both, in the reaction vessel.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 13, 2001Publication date: June 27, 2002Inventors: Edward W. Baldwin, Russell P. White
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Patent number: 6408682Abstract: In automated reprocessing system (B), a leak detection system (10) evaluates the integrity of an endoscope (A), having an internal passage (66). The leak detection system includes an interior chamber (42) which is connected to the internal passage by quick connects (18, 20). A source of compressed air (22) pressurizes the chamber and internal passage to a suitable test pressure. A pressure sensor (50) and a temperature sensor (54) detect the pressure and temperature within the chamber and hence in the endoscope passage. Pressure and temperature measurements made over time are used to determine changes in the gas volume, indicative of whether leaks are present in the endoscope. If the endoscope is determined to be free of leaks, the endoscope is washed and microbially decontaminated in the reprocessing system.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2001Date of Patent: June 25, 2002Assignee: Steris Inc.Inventor: Alan J. Greszler
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Publication number: 20020071789Abstract: The invention provides a packaging solution for use with hydrophobic contact lenses. The packaging solution of the invention substantially prevents adherence of the lenses to the packages' surfaces, thus preventing deformation or breakage of the lens.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2000Publication date: June 13, 2002Inventors: Frank F. Molock, James D. Ford, Annie C. Maiden, Robert N. Love
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Publication number: 20020034456Abstract: A method and apparatus for an automated biological reaction system is provided. In the processing of a biological reaction system, there is a need for consistently placing an amount of fluid on a slide. In order to accomplish this, several methods are used including a consistency pulse and a volume adjust means. Moreover, in order to reliably operate an automated biological reaction system, the dispenser must be reliable, easy to assemble and accurate. Among other things, in order to accomplish this, the dispense chamber is substantially in line with the reservoir chamber, the reservoir chamber piston is removed, and the flow of fluid through the dispenser is simplified. Further, in order to operate the automated biological reaction system more reliably, the system is designed in modular pieces with higher functions performed by a host device and the execution of the staining operations performed by remote devices.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2001Publication date: March 21, 2002Inventors: Anthony Ford, Darin McDaniel, Stephen Mead, William Richards, Wayne Showalter, Bobbi Druyor-Sanchez, Bronwen Heilman, Brian McGraw
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Publication number: 20020031450Abstract: A control device suitably heats reformate fuel so as to obtain high-quality reformate gas by stabilizing the temperature of a reforming portion regardless of load fluctuations. The control device is suitable for use with a reformer that includes a heating portion for heating up reformate fuel, which is to be gasified in a reforming reaction, with the aid of the heat generated by heat fuel. At least one of the amount of heat fuel and the amount of an oxidizer for burning the heat fuel is determined based on an amount of reforming reaction requirement.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 1999Publication date: March 14, 2002Inventors: MASASHI YAMASHITA, MASAAKI YAMAOKA, KIYOMI NAGAMIYA
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Publication number: 20020015676Abstract: A process for producing a purified aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution, comprising passing a charged aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution containing impurities through a purifier tower packed with an ion exchange resin, a chelate resin or an adsorption resin to thereby purify the charged aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution, wherein there are provided a feed pump of given output capable of causing the charged aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution to flow to the purifier tower and further a flow sensor capable of sensing a flow rate of charged aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution being fed to the purifier tower and wherein the output of the feed pump is controlled in cooperation with the flow sensor so as to bring the charged aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution into contact with the ion exchange resin, chelate resin or adsorption resin while maintaining the flow of charged aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution at a constant rate.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2001Publication date: February 7, 2002Applicant: SANTOKU CHEMICAL INDUSTRIES CO., LTDInventors: Fujio Tanaka, Takashi Adachi, Toshimi Suzuki, Mutsuro Noguchi, Tomoaki Kobayashi
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Publication number: 20010047622Abstract: A control apparatus for a reformer and a method of controlling the reformer are provided. The reformer gasifies a reformate fuel by a reforming reaction, supplies the obtained reformate gas to an energy converter to convert the reformate gas into energy of another form, and heats the reformate fuel by burning emission containing unreacted flammable gas produced in the energy converter. The control apparatus comprises a reforming amount assessing device for assessing the amount of the reformate fuel to be gasified, and an emission amount assessing device for assessing the amount of emission to be supplied into the reformer on the basis of the assessed amount of reformate fuel. When using the unreacted hydrogen gas generated in a fuel cell for heating the reformate fuel, the unreacted hydrogen gas and combustion aid gas can be controlled so that the reformate fuel is heated properly.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 12, 1999Publication date: December 6, 2001Inventors: MASAAKI YAMAOKA, MASASHI YAMASHITA, KIYOMI NAGAMIYA, YOSHIKAZU MOTOZONO, IWAO MAEDA, MASAYOSHI TAKI
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Patent number: 6312960Abstract: The invention provides methods for preparing a reaction substrate for use as assay devices comprising parallel printing of arrays of biosites on reaction substrates, wherein each biosite comprises a single type of capture probe bound to the reaction substrate and the array of biosites is deposited on the reaction substrate by a capillary bundle printer device.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1998Date of Patent: November 6, 2001Assignee: Genometrix Genomics, Inc.Inventors: William J. Balch, Michael E. Hogan
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Publication number: 20010026777Abstract: The invention constructs a system which vaporizes a liquid raw material in a vaporizing section and steam-reforms the vaporized raw material in a reforming section to generate hydrogen. A pressure regulating valve for regulating the pressure in the vaporizing section is disposed at anywhere from the vaporizing section to downstream of the reforming section. When a hydrogen requirement is increased, the pressure regulating valve is controlled to decrease the pressure in the vaporizing section. The pressure reduction makes it possible to promote vaporization in the vaporizing section such that the rate of generation of steam can be improved. Moreover, during start-up of the system, the control mode is changed to open the pressure regulating valve, thereby limiting the rate of increase in pressure just after the generation of reformed gas has started.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2001Publication date: October 4, 2001Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Yoshimasa Negishi, Masaaki Yamaoka, Kyo Hattori, Kazumasa Takada, Hiromi Tanaka, Shigeto Kajiwara
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Publication number: 20010022949Abstract: A dynamic sealing structure for pressure vessels used in microwave assisted chemistry is disclosed. The structure includes a cylindrical vessel liner and a removable liner cap, each formed of a microwave transparent material. The liner has a circular mouth with a lip formed of respective first and second beveled edges, with the first beveled edge forming an interior edge of the circular mouth and the second beveled edge forming an exterior edge of the circular mouth. The cap includes respective interior and exterior faces, with a sleeve depending from the interior face and having a circumference that engages the interior surface of the vessel liner for being urged under pressure against the interior surface of the vessel liner. The interior face of the cap comprising a circular channel outward of the sleeve and having a circumference that engages the lip of the vessel liner, and with the channel comprising two beveled edges that respectively engage both beveled edges of the lip of the liner.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 16, 2001Publication date: September 20, 2001Inventor: Wyatt Price Hargett,
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Patent number: 6280692Abstract: A novel apparatus has been discovered which is of value in the production of polyurethane foam. This invention relates to a one-pass, on-demand apparatus for producing a controlled, homogeneous blend of the polyol-blowing agent mixture used in the manufacture of polyurethane foam using either a low-boiling point or high-boiling point blowing agent. An apparatus is provided to control the amount of each material in the mixture, ensure homogeneous blending of the two materials after mixing, a pressure control means to maintain blowing agents in their liquid state (where necessary), and a monitoring means which allows rapid verification of the operating status of the entire system.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Blentek Systems, Inc.Inventor: Henry Walker Bartlett, Jr.
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Publication number: 20010016364Abstract: An apparatus for chemical vapor deposition includes a dispenser for dispensing a precursor to a vaporizer positioned within a vaporization chamber. A delivery conduit joins the vaporization with a process chamber. A flow meter is positioned within the delivery conduit for measuring the flow of precursor through the delivery conduit. A flow controller is likewise positioned within the delivery conduit for controlling the flow of precursor in response to the measured flow rate.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 1999Publication date: August 23, 2001Inventors: JAMES F. LOAN, JACK P. SALERNO
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Patent number: 6267792Abstract: A control apparatus can maintain a substantially constant temperature of a reforming reaction in which a partial oxidation reaction occurs. The control apparatus can be used for a reformer that reforms reformats fuel into fuel by an endothermic reforming reaction and a partial oxidation reforming reaction. The amount of oxygen supplied for the partial oxidation reaction is determined based on an amount of the raw material and on theoretical endothermic values and exothermic values of the respective reforming reaction and partial oxidation reaction.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 1999Date of Patent: July 31, 2001Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kiyomi Nagamiya, Masashi Yamashita, Masaaki Yamaoka, Yoshikazu Motozono