With Means Exposing Gas To Electromagnetic Wave Energy Or Corpuscular Radiation Patents (Class 422/121)
  • Patent number: 6576188
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for sterilizing organic or inorganic matter through simultaneous exposure to ultraviolet light energy and ultrasonic wave energy in a non-aqueous environment such as air. The method is suitable for use in a chamber or in a mass production assembly line setting. Purification of air is similarly accomplished using simultaneous exposure to ultraviolet light and ultrasonic energy waves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Spectrum Environmental Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward V. Rose, William E. Clark, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20030101872
    Abstract: A system which includes a forced air system with interconnected ducting and a humidifier positioned at a predetermined location in the ducting, with the system further includes a source of UV radiation for controlling bacteria. The improvement resides in providing plastic material for all components in the humidifier and other system component parts which contains a UV inhibiting material to combat UV deterioration of the plastic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2001
    Publication date: June 5, 2003
    Applicant: Carrier Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher E. Peel, Kevin H. Waldo
  • Patent number: 6572817
    Abstract: A system for treating a contaminated liquid wherein atmospheric air is fed into an oxygen generator with the resulting gases fed into an ozone generator and the resulting gases fed into a treatment tower as the contaminated liquid flows through the treatment tower is modified by locating apparatus between the oxygen generator and the ozone generator which apparatus receives the gases from the oxygen generator, ionizes such gases and feeds the ionized gases to the ozone generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Universal Water Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: William M. Fields, Donald L. Boyd
  • Publication number: 20030099569
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling operation of an ultraviolet air treatment device including an ultraviolet lamp positioned to treat air within an air handling system that operates in either an on state or an off state. The method includes activating the ultraviolet lamp, and determining the operational state of the air handling system. The ultraviolet lamp is deactivated upon expiration of a predetermined time period during which the air handling system remains in the off state. The predetermined time period is preferably 30-60 minutes, preferably 40 minutes for residential applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2001
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Inventors: Tracy L. Lentz, Timothy J. Kensok, Jeffrey M. Hammer, Mark E. Stout, Richard N. Metzger, Jon W. Orr
  • Publication number: 20030095902
    Abstract: A photocatalytic electric fan comprises a main body having a receiving tank therein. A motor is fixed in the receiving tank. A rotation shaft of the motor is connected with a fan blade. A lamp-fixing element is joined at an opening of the main body near the fan blade. A photocatalytic lamp is positioned on the lamp-fixing element. At least a photocatalytic lamp tube is disposed on the lamp. Each photocatalytic lamp tube is connected to an electric connection seat, a stabilizer, a starter, a switch, and a power source. A face net is joined at the other opening of the main body. The face net is rotatable. The photocatalytic lamp tube is a UV lamp tube with a glass-fiber-cloth sleeved outside. The glass-fiber-cloth has a photocatalytic coating formed of titanium dioxide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2001
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Inventors: Yuan Huan Lee, Wen Hu Cheng, Chu Chun Huang
  • Patent number: 6565633
    Abstract: The electron beam is irradiated from the center part to the outer direction in the irradiation duct. Then required electron range is decreased and the required beam energy is decreased. The electron beam introduction window is formed as a thin curved surface and made of Al alloy or SiC ceramics, then the energy absorption is decreased, a large beam current is available and X-ray shield become very small sized and very simple. By dividing the acceleration voltage into a positive and negative voltage, the absolute value of the applied voltage is decreased, then the reliability for the insulator is increased and the acceleration voltage can be obtained without mechanical movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Inventor: Mamoru Nakasuji
  • Publication number: 20030089670
    Abstract: Ultraviolet radiation is used to disinfect water (5) in a flow tube, where the flow tube (10) acts a fluid filled light guide for the ultraviolet radiation and the ultraviolet radiation propagates through the flow tube via total internal reflection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Robert J. Saccomanno
  • Publication number: 20030086831
    Abstract: An ultraviolet disinfection (UV) system for gases including a UV light-ready gas purifier having at least one portal in the gas purifier for receiving UV light input from a UV light source, which is removably connected to the gas purifier via a connector at the portal, and positioned to provide a focused, controllable UV light output that has at least one UV dose zone for providing effective sterilization of microorganisms and disinfection within an interior of the gas purifier. The light source is positioned within a housing that is external to the gas purifier and capable of being connected thereto via optical connectors, such as fiber optic transmission lines. A method for UV disinfection of the interior of gas purifiers is also included in the present invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Isaac B. Horton
  • Patent number: 6558621
    Abstract: Biomedical devices that are to come into contact with living tissue, such as prosthetic and other implants for the human body and the containers used to store and transport them, are together cleaned of non-living, but biologically active organic materials, including endotoxins such as lipopolysaccharides, and assembled into a hermetically sealed package without recontamination. This is achieved by cleaning both the device and package components together in an apparatus, which includes a hermetically sealed chamber, in which they are contacted with atomic oxygen which biocleans them, by oxidizing the biologically active organic materials. The apparatus also includes means for manipulating the device and container and hermetically sealing the cleaned device into the cleaned container to form the package. A calibrated witness coupon visually indicates whether or not the device and container have received enough exposure to the atomic oxygen to have removed the organic materials from their surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    Inventors: Bruce A. Banks, Michael A. Banks, Eric B. Banks
  • Patent number: 6544485
    Abstract: An electronic device generates an output airflow that is subjected to UV radiation from a germicidal lamp within the device. The airflow preferably is created electro-kinetically by coupling high voltage pulses across an electrode system that includes small radius first array electrodes and larger radius second array electrodes. The airflow is also accompanied by generation of ions and/or ozone. If desired, airflow may be created with a fan instead of, or to augment, electro-kinetic generation. The device optionally includes a moisture-containing material whose proximity to the airflow can augment humidity in the airflow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: Sharper Image Corporation
    Inventor: Charles E. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20030059340
    Abstract: A sterilization system applies power to a plasma within a chamber to remove gas or vapor species from an article. The sterilization system includes a power feedback control system for controlling the power applied to the plasma. The power feedback control system includes a current monitor adapted to produce a first signal indicative of a current applied to the plasma within the chamber. The power feedback control system further includes a voltage monitor adapted to produce a second signal indicative of a voltage applied to the plasma within the chamber. The power feedback control system further includes a power control module comprising a programmable digital signal processor. The digital signal processor is adapted to receive and process the first signal and the second signal by multiplying the current and the voltage and producing a third signal indicative of the product of the current and the voltage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2002
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventors: John Chien, Robert C. Platt, Anthony Lemus
  • Patent number: 6537507
    Abstract: A non-thermal plasma reactor element is provided comprising a multi-cell stack prepared from a plurality of formed building blocks of dielectric material, the walls of the building blocks defining a cell having an exhaust passage for flowing gas to be treated therethrough. A conductive print forming an electrode and connector is disposed on at least one wall of each of the cells and outer insulative plates, disposed on opposite ends of the multi-cell stack, are provided to protect the conductive print. The non-thermal plasma reactor element includes cells defined by a single structural dielectric barrier comprising a “conductor-single structural dielectric barrier-exhaust passage-conductor” arrangement, wherein individual cells of the reactor element are defined by a single structural dielectric barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: David Emil Nelson, Bob Xiaobin Li, Mark David Hemingway, Darrell R. Herling, Suresh Baskaran
  • Publication number: 20030049164
    Abstract: A surface is sanitized by manufacturing a gaseous stream of ozone from oxygen having a purity of at least 90 vol. %, and injecting it directly into a stream of water having a pH of 6.5-7.5, feeding said aqueous solution of ozone into a tank which maintains a gaseous atmosphere comprising ozone over the solution, applying said aqueous solution of ozone from said tank onto a surface to be sanitized; and recovering water from said surface and recycling it to said source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2001
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Inventors: Paulo Sergio Bon, Sergio Roberto Rodrigues Ribeiro, Henrique Armando Langaro Pareja
  • Patent number: 6528021
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for the treatment of hazardous biological materials being exhausted from sewer and grease trap vents. These vents may be located on the roof of public schools, commercial kitchens or multiple occupant restroom facilities. The method eliminates odors and kills bacteria associated with said emissions from sewer and grease trap vents. These emissions are neutralized when exposed to a mixture of ozone and ultraviolet radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventor: James Philip Williams
  • Patent number: 6528023
    Abstract: For treating room air by ionization in an ionization apparatus having electrical discharge ionization tubes or corona discharge tubes, the values of oxidizable air components; relative humidity; flow velocity or flow volume; ozone level in the supply air; and intensity of oxygen ions of the air are measured. The level of ionization power of the ionization apparatus Is determined by a control device based on the measured values. When a predetermined ozone level is detected, the control device lowers the ionization power, and, when the ozone level continues to increase after the ionization power has been lowered indicating an external ozone source, the control device initiates a decomposition of ozone in the ionization apparatus by changing a time period of the applied periodic alternating voltage, supplied in the form of alternating pulses or packages of alternating pulses of a preset number or a combination of both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: LK Luftqualität AG
    Inventor: Werner Fleischer
  • Publication number: 20030039577
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing contaminants from contaminated air is accomplished by exposing an incoming air stream from a surrounding area to ultra-violet (UV) radiation to generate ozone in an ozone chamber of the system. The ozone chamber is configured to reduce air through-flow velocity and to provide time for the ozone to mix with the air and oxidize the contaminants. The air stream subsequently enters a germicidal chamber and is again exposed to UV radiation at a different wavelength to destroy bacteria and any ozone in the air stream thus resulting in sterilized air. The system may include various ozone and germicidal chamber configurations to increase residence time within these chambers. Further, the system may be configured for installation within a wall or ceiling, or for mounting on a ceiling fan motor for use with ceiling fans.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2002
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Inventors: Jerry Nelson, Craig Andrews
  • Publication number: 20030039576
    Abstract: An air purification system for purifying recirculated air eg in an aircraft, vehicle, offices or hospitals comprises the combination of a filter section with an ultraviolet illumination section and a coating of an antimicrobial agent on surfaces in one or both of the filter and illumination sections. Air flow through the illumination section is caused to be slightly turbulent by means of a multi-bladed fan being fixed in position between the filter and illumination sections. This increases the dwell time of contaminants in the illumination section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2002
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Inventor: Philip Hall
  • Patent number: 6515422
    Abstract: A photo catalyzer includes a light-transmitting substrate and a catalytic layer provided on the substrate. The catalytic layer substantially includes anatase form of titanium oxide and has a thickness of 0.01 to 0.3 microns. The photocatalyzer can be part of a lamp or lighting fixture arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Toshiba Lighting & Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Hisashi Honda
  • Publication number: 20030021723
    Abstract: A device for detecting, isolating and exterminating hazardous microbiological agents contained inside delicate objects such as envelopes and packages commonly used in worldwide mail and transport systems which may be safely used in houses, is very economic and which can be easily produced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Applicant: Inovatek Corporation
    Inventor: Oscar Raul Lopez Ordaz
  • Publication number: 20030021722
    Abstract: Articles having irregular characteristics such as an irregular geometrical configuration or an irregular density are disposed in a container which is moved in a first direction past a radiation source. Radiation from the source is directed toward the articles in the container in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction. The radiation energy passing from the source to the articles at different positions in the articles is absorbed in accordance with the irregularities in the characteristics of the articles at the different positions to maintain the radiant energy at the different positions in the articles within particular limits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2001
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventors: John Thomas Allen, George Michael Sullivan, Colin Brian Williams
  • Publication number: 20030019355
    Abstract: A method is for selectively removing gaseous pollutants from the ambient air, and a device is for implementing the method. Undesirable emissions may be selectively and completely removed from the ambient air using relatively simple equipment and a small amount of energy. Pollutants contained in the air to be purified are ionized by the action of optical radiation, based on resonant and/or non-resonant single-photon excitation and/or multiple-photon excitation, so that the ionized pollutants are drawn off and removed from the air to be purified, using an electric field. A small portion of the energy necessary for the ionization may also be applied in the form of microwave energy or electric-field energy. The method and device may be used in air-conditioning or other air-circulation systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventors: Johann Goebel, Helmut Oberpriller, Peter Peuser
  • Publication number: 20030021721
    Abstract: An air purification system for purifying recirculated air eg in an aircraft, vehicle, offices or hospitals comprises the combination of a filter section with an ultraviolet illumination section and a coating of an antimicrobial agent on surfaces in one or both of the filter and illumination sections. Air flow through the illumination section is caused to be slightly turbulent by means of a multi-bladed fan being fixed in position between the filter and illumination sections. This increases the dwell time of contaminants in the illumination section. The antimicrobial agent includes as an active ingredient a quarternary ammonium salt and preferably as the following structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Applicant: Microgenix Limited
    Inventor: Philip Hall
  • Patent number: 6508992
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an emission cleaning installation which is easy to connect continuously even to existing large-scale incineration furnaces and which is able to oxidatively break down and eliminate environmental pollutants contained in the emissions, for example dioxins, dibenzofurans, coplanar PCBs, nitrogen oxides (NOx) and the like without temperature control of the emission temperature, by the photocatalytic action of the photocatalyst, and to a method for emission cleaning and elimination which uses the abovementioned emission cleaning installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignees: Agency of Industrial Science & Technology, Yamada Industry
    Inventors: Hiroshi Taoda, Yukio Yamada, Kazuu Aizawa
  • Patent number: 6508982
    Abstract: An air-cleaning apparatus and air-cleaning method whereby air is cleaned with an air flow containing ions and ozone generated by corona discharge. The apparatus has a wind tunnel part including a trumpet-shaped member (3) having an opening at the bottom thereof and a cylindrical member (4) connected to the opening at the bottom of the trumpet-shaped member (3). The wind tunnel part has a titanium dioxide metal evaporated onto the surface thereof. A needle electrode (1) is placed in front of the trumpet-shaped member (3) of the wind tunnel part near an axis of the trumpet-shaped member (3). An annular electrode is formed on the inner surface of the wind tunnel part. A high-voltage generating unit applies a high voltage between the needle electrode (1) and the annular electrode (2). A housing (10) accommodates the needle electrode (1), the annular electrode (2) and the wind tunnel part and has an air inlet (11) on a side thereof closer to the needle electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Seisui
    Inventor: Masami Shoji
  • Patent number: 6508989
    Abstract: This Invention Patent refers to an air sterilization system for child incubators. The object of this Patent is to provide the child with air which is less polluted or free from pathogenic microorganisms that might put its health at risk or prolong its stay in the incubator and/or clinic or hospital, and that of the other persons or patients that might come into contact with the air exiting the same incubator in the case of a child with an infectious manifestations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: Arroba Ingenieria, Sa. De Cv.
    Inventors: José Luis Urrusti, Carlos Aguilar Chávez
  • Publication number: 20030012703
    Abstract: An air cleaning device with an optic catalyzer lamp tube includes a machine body, an optic catalyzer lamp tube and an enforcing convection device. The fan of the enforcing convection device in the interior of the machine body absorbs air from air inlets. When air flows through the optic catalyzer lamp tube, the dust, and germs in the air can be removed so as to achieve the effect of dust and germ-proof. The enforcing convection device serves to transfer cleaning air from the optic catalyzer lamp tube so that the air has the effect of filtering. Therefore, the indoor air may flow convectionally. The dust or germ in the air can be removed gradually so as to improve the quality of air.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventor: Yuan Huan Lee
  • Publication number: 20030012704
    Abstract: An oxygen-concentrating equipment comprising an oxygen-concentrating means for separating oxygen from air and concentrating the oxygen, a humidifying means for humidifying the oxygen-concentrated air produced by said oxygen-concentrating means, and an oxygen-supplying means for supplying the humidified oxygen-concentrated air to a user, characterized in that said humidifying means has at least a cation-conducting solid electrolyte membrane equipped with electrodes on both the sides of the membrane and an electric source for applying an electric current to said electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2001
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventors: Masato Sugano, Sadakazu Matsubara, Satoshi Takaichi
  • Patent number: 6503458
    Abstract: A device for purifying air within a room. The device includes a housing having a plurality of air inlet ports and a plurality of air outlet ports. An ultraviolet ray generator is positioned within the housing along with a fan for drawing air into the housing through the air inlet ports. A passageway leading from the air inlet ports and encircling the ultraviolet ray generator to the air outlet ports provides a path for air drawn into the housing. The ultraviolet rays produced by the generator kill bacteria, germs and viruses in the air passing thereby through the passageway and the passageway maximizes a distance traveled by the air through the housing and thereby maximizing exposure of the air to the ultraviolet rays. The device also generates ozone for neutralizing undesirable odors, such as stale tobacco smoke and mildew in the air drawn into the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Inventor: William D Ogle
  • Publication number: 20030003028
    Abstract: A germicide apparatus comprises UV lamps and a switching-hour counter devices for indicating an incipient exhaustion condition of the lamps, thereby allowing the apparatus use to timely replace the UV lamps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2002
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Inventor: Giancarlo Tomaselli
  • Patent number: 6500387
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for ultraviolet irradiation of air for the purpose of removing contaminants from that air is disclosed. A U-shaped ultraviolet bulb enshrouded within a quartz tube provides enhanced contaminant destruction characteristics. By combining a plurality of those bulbs in a chamber that is of polished aluminum, and further combining aluminum filters therewith, added irradiation enhancement is achieved. Further provided are baffles or baffling proximate the ultraviolet bulbs that cause the air to go turbulent thus drawing the air closer to the ultraviolet bulb and further enhancing the contaminant destruction characteristics. Moreover disclosed is treatment of substrates with a chemical agent that facilitates the arrest of contaminants from the air onto the substrate for further irradiation of the contaminants from the bulbs. This further irradiation breaks down the arrested contaminants thus providing the substrate with a self-cleansing effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Assignee: Nukuest, Inc.
    Inventor: Wil Bigelow
  • Publication number: 20020197184
    Abstract: A sterilization system for use with a form, fill, seal machine to sterilize the web material being processed by the machine. The web passes seriatim through an ionized air wash, a chemical pre-wash, a sterilant bath, squeeze rollers, hot air knives and a UV radiation source. The synergism of the respective in-line treatments facilitates efficient sterilization at high web feed rates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2001
    Publication date: December 26, 2002
    Inventor: Sevugan Palaniappan
  • Publication number: 20020197183
    Abstract: A method by which dental equipment, such as dental scalers, can be sanitized using a detergent or treating composition containing a surfactant and a solvent such as water is disclosed. The method involves taking the used dental equipment and contacting it with the treating composition, and subjecting both the equipment and composition to microwaves. The composition foams during microwaving and/or immerses the equipment such that microwave arcing is avoided, and such that the dental equipment is sanitized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2002
    Publication date: December 26, 2002
    Inventors: Alan Scott Goldstein, Howard David Hutton
  • Patent number: 6497840
    Abstract: A germicidal method and apparatus for destroying airborne pathogenic bacteria such as tuberculosis bacteria using ultraviolet light. Air is drawn through a filter and into a sterilization chamber that is irradiated with ultraviolet light, and out through an exhaust opening. Consideration for the characteristics of the room in which the apparatus is installed and the positioning of the installation allows effective prevention of transmission of disease through expectoration and inhalation of airborne microdroplets of bacteria-containing sputum. The filter is of the low-density type which traps large particulates, but not small particulates of the size of the microdroplets, so that the filter does not become a bacteria colonization site. Baffles on the air intake opening and air exhaust opening to prevent ultraviolet light from escaping into the environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2002
    Inventors: Richard P. Palestro, Dale R. Morgan, Michael Dee Iseman, Donald P. Rosier
  • Publication number: 20020182101
    Abstract: In the present invention, a process for plasma treatment of an object's surface to be treated comprises the creation of a plasma, the application of the plasma to the surface to be treated, and the excitation of the surface to be treated, such that it undulates. The energy for excitation of the surface may come from the process creating the plasma, from an external source, or from a combination of these two sources. The vibration of the surface to be treated preferably takes place while the plasma is being applied to the surface to be treated, but depending on the treatment to carry out, it may also take place just prior to and/or just after the application phase.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Pavel Koulik, Mikhail Samsonov, Alexander Cherepanov, Evguenii Petrov
  • Publication number: 20020176809
    Abstract: The present invention provides for apparatus for the conditioning of air for human use. The apparatus is comprised of: (a) a fluid flux generator for generating a flux of particulate precursor material; an activator for activating said particulate precursor material in a gas-to-particle reaction for forming atmospherically unstable products for the encapsulation of harmful airborne agents.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2002
    Publication date: November 28, 2002
    Inventor: Harold E. Siess
  • Publication number: 20020176796
    Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and treatment systems for inactivation of microbes and/or nucleic acids in biological fluids, especially platelet compositions without completely damaging antigens, enzymes and membrane functions. In accordance with the method of the invention, a biological fluid is illuminated with a light source having at least one wavelength within a range of 170 to 2600 nm to inactivate microbes in the composition and inactivate nucleic acids inside cells without destroying proteins (enzymes) and membrane functions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2002
    Publication date: November 28, 2002
    Applicant: PurePulse Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Morse Holloway, Kenton Salisbury, William H. Cover, Mark Landers
  • Publication number: 20020176794
    Abstract: A safe and effective microwave deodorizer including a volatile medium, such as a liquid solution of water and citrus oils, contained in an absorbent material such as a non-metallic sponge. When the microwave deodorizer is heated in a microwave oven, the microwave deodorizer releases deodorizing vapors in a manner designed to deposit a deodorizing residue on an inner surface of the microwave oven.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2002
    Publication date: November 28, 2002
    Inventor: Raymond G. Donahue
  • Patent number: 6475432
    Abstract: A device for use in carrying and supporting a work piece before, during, and after a treatment process. The device can be used for both shipping and treating the work piece, and the device will not adversely affect the work piece during the treatment process. The device comprises at least one plate which has at least one relieved region for holding a work piece. The plate has a density the same as or very similar to the density of the work piece, so that the plate and work piece together have a substantially uniform density.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Assignee: Ion Beam Applications, Inc.
    Inventor: Victor J. Balmer
  • Patent number: 6447731
    Abstract: A cleaning device including a sensor, a circuit board, a fan motor, an optical catalyst glass fiber filter mesh, an anion and ozone generator and a power supply. The cleaning device is able to collect dust and remove odor. Also, the cleaning device is able to generate ozone and natural anion to activate human cells and help in blood circulation. In addition, by means of a USB (Universal Serial Bus) signal cable or IBM PS/2 signal cable, the cleaning device can be connected to a personal computer to serve as a peripheral equipment of the computer and form an environmental quality monitoring system. The computer can show the air quality index of the environment. The index can be presented through image or sound of the computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Inventors: Shin-Ching Sun, Hubert Chou
  • Patent number: 6444963
    Abstract: A safe and effective microwave deodorizer including a volatile medium, such as a liquid solution of water and citrus oils, contained in an absorbent material such as a non-metallic sponge. When the microwave deodorizer is heated in a microwave oven, the microwave deodorizer releases deodorizing vapors in a manner designed to deposit a deodorizing residue on an inner surface of the microwave oven.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventor: Raymond G. Donahue
  • Publication number: 20020114728
    Abstract: 1.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Publication date: August 22, 2002
    Inventors: Victor V. Kulish, Alexandra C. Melnyk, Volodymryr A. Khvorost
  • Publication number: 20020098109
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for producing purified or ozone enriched air to remove contaminants from fluids is accomplished by exposing an air stream from a surrounding area to ozone generating ultra-violet (UV) radiation to generate ozone in a system ozone chamber. The ozone chamber is configured to reduce through-flow velocity and provide time for the ozone to mix with the air and oxidize contaminants. The air stream subsequently enters a germicidal chamber and is exposed to germicidal UV radiation to destroy bacteria and ozone in the air stream resulting in sterilized air. The radiation source may include an end-cap that interfaces guiding mechanisms to align the end-cap for power connections, and/or controls emission of ozone generating radiation to control production of ozone. Further, the system may include an additional germicidal chamber that exposes an air stream to germicidal radiation prior to treatment within the ozone chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2001
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventors: Jerry Nelson, Craig Andrews
  • Publication number: 20020098127
    Abstract: An ultraviolet sterilization apparatus comprising a housing and a replaceable lamp cartridge containing at least one ultraviolet lamp. The housing has an opening for the inlet of an air flow to be sterilized and an opening for the outlet of the sterilized air flow generated by a fan inside the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2001
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventor: Susanna Bollini
  • Publication number: 20020085947
    Abstract: An ultraviolet area sterilizer (UVAS) is mobile or stationary. The UVAS is positioned in a room, such an operating room or intensive care unit. Motion detectors sense movement, to assure that personnel have evacuated the space to be sterilized. Subsequently, UV-C generators, such mercury bulbs, generate UV-C from multiple locations within the room or other enclosed space. Multiple UV-C sensors scan the room, and determine the area reflecting the lowest level of UV-C back to the sensors. The device calculates the time required to obtain a bactericidal dose of UV-C reflected back to the sensors. Once an effective bactericidal dose has been reflected to all the sensors, the unit notifies the operator and shuts down.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2001
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Inventor: Jeffery L. Deal
  • Publication number: 20020085946
    Abstract: A method for simplified sterilization is provided which does not use a harmful medium such as a disinfectant and ultraviolet radiation and which is able to reach all portions of objects to be sterilized, where sterilization is realized without high temperatures being generated. After applying a small amount of water or mixture of water and ethanol to an object to be sterilized, or after spraying a liquid gas, far-infrared radiation is applied using a carbon lamp which has high far-infrared radiation efficiency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Inventors: Yoshihisa Suda, Noboru Kanba, Osamu Shimizu, Mitsuru Uchiyama
  • Patent number: 6399027
    Abstract: A perfumed cake and a method for making it. The cake is resistant to higher temperatures such as those produced by hair dryers and can provide perfume for its air stream. The cake is molded from a mixture of two kind of pellets. The first kind of pellet is a mixture of virgin polypropylene, virgin polyethylene or their combinations, and perfumed. The second kind of pellet is a mixture of virgin polypropylene virgin polyethylene or their combinations, and glass fibers. The two kinds of pellets are mixed and molded into a cake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Inventors: Pravin L. Shah, Merrill Heatter
  • Patent number: 6387333
    Abstract: A gas purifying system includes a water spraying system, and a collecting apparatus installed downstream of the water spraying system. The collecting apparatus has a surface composed of an electron emitting material, and the electron emitting material is capable of emitting electrons when subjected to visible light, ultraviolet light or electrical energy. The system can also include an ultraviolet lamp, with an ultraviolet photoelectron emitting material surrounding the ultraviolet lamp. The ultraviolet lamp and the ultraviolet photoelectron emitting material are positioned between the water spraying system and the collecting apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jung-Sung Hwang, Tae-Ho Kim, Soon-Young Lee, Jae-Heung Choi
  • Publication number: 20020051739
    Abstract: An odor-eliminating apparatus that is disposed in or affixed to the inside of a container door or the underside of a container lid and adapted to emit an odor-eliminating gas every time the closed door or lid is opened and reclosed. In the preferred embodiment, the apparatus comprises a battery operated ozone-generating module adapted for attachment to the inner surface of the container lid and including an orientation sensor that reacts to the door opening/closing and triggers the module to generate a predetermined amount of ozone gas and release it into the container. The ozone gas reacts with the organic odor molecules in the container to destroy the odor molecules and create therefrom a healthful mixture of oxygen and carbon dioxide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2001
    Publication date: May 2, 2002
    Inventor: Chi-Hsiang Wang
  • Patent number: 6375904
    Abstract: A wastewater collection system is provided with a gas withdrawal vent including a gas suction apparatus. The gas is preferably withdrawn at a rate in excess of the gas production by microbes in the wastewater collection system so that a slight negative pressure is created in the immediate vicinity of the gas withdrawal vent. A gas mixing chamber is coupled to the fan or blower to receive the gas withdrawn from the wastewater collection system. An ozone generation apparatus is also coupled to the gas mixing chamber that is adjusted to provide sufficient ozone to react with any noxious or malodorous components of the withdrawn gas. A reaction conduit is provided at an output of the gas mixing chamber to receive the withdrawn gas and ozone. The reaction conduit has surface features assuring turbulent flow of the gasses through the length of the conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Airtex Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: David B. Skillman, Henry A. Berman, William C. Weaver
  • Patent number: 6372186
    Abstract: A germicidal lamp for harsh environments is disclosed. The germicidal lamp is suited for outdoor installation on an HVAC system or related components. The germicidal lamp is made from materials resistant to splashing water, etc., and includes plural seals to protect the interior of the fixture and prevent leakage or contamination into or out of the HVAC system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Steril-Aire USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Forrest B. Fencl, Robert M. Culbert