Control Element Is Fluid Pressure Sensitive Patents (Class 422/112)
  • Publication number: 20040258609
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2004
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Inventors: Richard M. Boren, Charles F. Hammel
  • Publication number: 20040219080
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2004
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Applicant: Compagnie Generale Des Matieres Nucleaires
    Inventors: Pietro Bilardello, Nicolas Durupt, Renaud Pontier
  • Publication number: 20040202903
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2003
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Inventors: John A. deVos, Louis Barinaga, Suraj L. Hindagolla
  • Publication number: 20040202588
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2004
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Inventors: Fujio Tanaka, Takashi Adachi, Toshimi Suzuki, Mutsuro Noguchi, Tomoaki Kobayashi
  • Publication number: 20040199295
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Matthew J. Fairlie, William J. Stewart, Andrew T. B. Stuart, Steven J. Thorpe, Charlie Dong
  • Publication number: 20040197238
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Vesna R. Mirkovic, W. Spencer Wheat
  • Patent number: 6793699
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Inventors: Dennis D. Coleman, Rodney R. Ruch, Shiaoguo Chen, Massoud Rostam-Abadi
  • Publication number: 20040131508
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Inventors: Matthew J. Fairlie, William J. Stewart, Andrew T.B. Stuart, Steven J. Thorpe, Charlie Dong
  • Patent number: 6749816
    Abstract: 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 gr
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Yutaka Hasegawa, Kazuya Yamada, Yoshie Akai, Norihisa Saito, Yoshikazu Matsubayashi, Yasushi Yamaguchi, Hisao Oomura, Yumiko Abe, Atsushi Ohara
  • Publication number: 20040067395
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2003
    Publication date: April 8, 2004
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Mitsuaki Nakata, Mitsuie Matsumura, Yoji Fujita, Yoshiaki Odai, Yoshihide Gonjo
  • Publication number: 20040063567
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Daniel M. Ginosar, David N. Thompson, Raymond P. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20040022694
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Applicant: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shinichi Hara, Yutaka Tanaka, Shigeru Terashima, Takayuki Hasegawa, Shin Matsui
  • Publication number: 20040013602
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Joel A. Taube
  • Publication number: 20030213520
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2003
    Publication date: November 20, 2003
    Applicant: Bayer Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Thomas Prinz, Matthias Stenger, Peter Jahn, Ralf Duster
  • Patent number: 6630109
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2003
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Masaaki Yamaoka, Masashi Yamashita, Kiyomi Nagamiya, Yoshikazu Motozono, Iwao Maeda, Masayoshi Taki
  • Publication number: 20030167690
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2003
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventors: David J. Edlund, Arne LaVen, Jeffrey R. Pledger, Curtiss Renn
  • Patent number: 6616898
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shinichi Hara, Yutaka Tanaka, Shigeru Terashima, Takayuki Hasegawa, Shin Matsui
  • Publication number: 20030157008
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Applicant: EnviroScrub Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: 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
  • Patent number: 6592827
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: Univation Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Daniel Paul Zilker, Jr., Christopher Scott Hunnisett, Donald Robert Fields, Kiu Hee Lee
  • Publication number: 20030118505
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventors: Erling Reidar Andersen, Erling Jim Andersen
  • Publication number: 20030118488
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a system for automatically injecting chemicals into a pressurized system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2002
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventor: Leonard E. McKeary
  • Publication number: 20030113239
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Publication date: June 19, 2003
    Inventors: 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
  • Publication number: 20030095891
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2001
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Inventor: William O'Neal
  • Publication number: 20030068258
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Applicant: NATIONAL CHENG KUNG UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Shyan-Lung Chung, Chun-Nan Lin, Jeng-Chiuan Chen, Shui-Chin Liu
  • Publication number: 20030065453
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2002
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Inventor: Ola M. Johansson
  • Publication number: 20030031604
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2001
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Inventors: Burton Brooks, Walter A. Jessup, Brian W. MacArthur, W. Brad Sheats
  • Publication number: 20030017087
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2001
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Applicant: Applied Materials Inc.
    Inventors: Himanshu Pokharna, Phong Le, Srinivas D. Nemani
  • Publication number: 20030012709
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2002
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventors: Mindi Xu, Tay Sayasane, Joseph E. Paganessi, Gregory M. Jursich, Naoyuki Nakamoto, Yukinobu Nishikawa, Herve E. Dulphy, Guillaume Rameau, Lorrin Honda
  • Patent number: 6495366
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Therakos, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis A. Briggs
  • Patent number: 6488895
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignee: Caliper Technologies Corp.
    Inventor: Colin B. Kennedy
  • Patent number: 6485649
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: Steris Europe, Inc.
    Inventors: Jorma Terävä, Teppo Nurminen
  • Publication number: 20020168302
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Inventors: 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
  • Patent number: 6479301
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: Genometrix Genomics Incorporated
    Inventors: William J. Balch, Michael E. Hogan
  • Publication number: 20020150516
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Publication date: October 17, 2002
    Applicant: EnviroScrub Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: 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
  • Publication number: 20020122757
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2001
    Publication date: September 5, 2002
    Applicant: National Cheng Kung University
    Inventors: Shyan-Lung Chung, Chun-Nan Lin, Jen-Chang Chen, Zheng-Xiuo Lin, Jing-Yuan Liu
  • Publication number: 20020116872
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2002
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Inventors: David J. Edlund, Thomas G. Herron
  • Publication number: 20020094306
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: February 25, 1999
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventors: SHINICHI HARA, YUTAKA TANAKA, SHIGERU TERASHIMA, TAKAYUKI HASEGAWA, SHIN MATSUI
  • Publication number: 20020081235
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Inventors: Edward W. Baldwin, Russell P. White
  • Patent number: 6408682
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Steris Inc.
    Inventor: Alan J. Greszler
  • Publication number: 20020071789
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2000
    Publication date: June 13, 2002
    Inventors: Frank F. Molock, James D. Ford, Annie C. Maiden, Robert N. Love
  • Publication number: 20020034456
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Publication date: March 21, 2002
    Inventors: Anthony Ford, Darin McDaniel, Stephen Mead, William Richards, Wayne Showalter, Bobbi Druyor-Sanchez, Bronwen Heilman, Brian McGraw
  • Publication number: 20020031450
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: June 30, 1999
    Publication date: March 14, 2002
    Inventors: MASASHI YAMASHITA, MASAAKI YAMAOKA, KIYOMI NAGAMIYA
  • Publication number: 20020015676
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Publication date: February 7, 2002
    Applicant: SANTOKU CHEMICAL INDUSTRIES CO., LTD
    Inventors: Fujio Tanaka, Takashi Adachi, Toshimi Suzuki, Mutsuro Noguchi, Tomoaki Kobayashi
  • Publication number: 20010047622
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 12, 1999
    Publication date: December 6, 2001
    Inventors: MASAAKI YAMAOKA, MASASHI YAMASHITA, KIYOMI NAGAMIYA, YOSHIKAZU MOTOZONO, IWAO MAEDA, MASAYOSHI TAKI
  • Patent number: 6312960
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Genometrix Genomics, Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Balch, Michael E. Hogan
  • Publication number: 20010026777
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2001
    Publication date: October 4, 2001
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Yoshimasa Negishi, Masaaki Yamaoka, Kyo Hattori, Kazumasa Takada, Hiromi Tanaka, Shigeto Kajiwara
  • Publication number: 20010022949
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2001
    Publication date: September 20, 2001
    Inventor: Wyatt Price Hargett,
  • Patent number: 6280692
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: Blentek Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Henry Walker Bartlett, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20010016364
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: April 14, 1999
    Publication date: August 23, 2001
    Inventors: JAMES F. LOAN, JACK P. SALERNO
  • Patent number: 6267792
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kiyomi Nagamiya, Masashi Yamashita, Masaaki Yamaoka, Yoshikazu Motozono