With Means Exposing Gas To Electromagnetic Wave Energy Or Corpuscular Radiation Patents (Class 422/121)
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Patent number: 6358478Abstract: The invention relates to a method for treatment of fluids, the invention being characterized in that ozone is generated in the medium, which ozone is exposed to UV radiation at the same time as it is being generated, so that the ozone is broken down and free radicals are obtained. The invention also relates to an apparatus in accordance with the method, which apparatus comprises an enclosure (1) provided with at least one inlet (2) and at least one outlet (3). The apparatus is characterized in that an oxidizing member (4) is arranged in the enclosure (1) and generates ozone and at the same time breaks down the ozone to free radicals.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 1999Date of Patent: March 19, 2002Assignee: Benrad AktiebolagInventor: Rune Söremark
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Publication number: 20020012615Abstract: A gas purifying system including 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: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2001Publication date: January 31, 2002Inventors: Jung-Sung Hwang, Tae-Ho Kim, Soon-Young Lee, Jae-Heung Choi
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Patent number: 6337483Abstract: A germicidal UV chamber for use on air passing through a duct system, such as a central air system which replace one or more sections of the duct and, in essence, becomes part of the duct work. Each chamber is in the form of one or more ellipsoid sections which focus the energy uniformly throughout the chamber. The inlet and exit passages from the chamber are a grill formed from truncated elliptical concentric rings. Also positioned in the chamber is an ultraviolet transparent conduit through which a liquid such as water passes and is also germicidally cleansed. The conduit may very in diameter to retain UV energy in the conduit.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2000Date of Patent: January 8, 2002Assignee: MolecuCare, Inc.Inventor: Arthur L. Matschke
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Patent number: 6328937Abstract: An apparatus for killing microorganisms in a primary flow of a fluid medium using germicidal beams to kill microorganisms in a portion of the primary flow of the fluid medium has a housing having an inlet end 1 and an outlet end 4. The housing 20 has reflective inner surfaces 2R, 3R, 5R and 6R along the path 100 of the germicidal beams, a source 30 of germicidal beams located in the housing 20 and at least one baffle 40 located near the source 30 of the germicidal beams. The baffle 40 projects from an inner surface 6 of the housing 20 and is configured to converge the primary flow of air into the germicidal beams path in close proximity to the germicidal beams source 30. The at least one baffle 40 has an upstream portion 41 lying substantially out of the beam path 100 and a downstream portion 42 lying in the beam path 100.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 1999Date of Patent: December 11, 2001Inventor: Mark Glazman
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Publication number: 20010043887Abstract: An air purifier includes a high mass-flow rate air-mover and a low mass-flow rate ultra-violet radiation decontamination device. The decontamination device is mounted in spaced relation to the air-mover so as to space the inlet of the air-mover from the inlet of the decontamination device. In particular, the inlet of the decontamination device may be disposed oppositely to the inlet of the air-mover, relative to the outlet of the decontamination device, along a low mass-flow rate flow path of a low mass-flow rate air flow. The low mass-flow rate air flow passes ambient air into the inlet of the decontamination device, through the decontamination device so as to pass for an operative dwell time into operative proximity to at least one UV emitter mounted in the decontamination device and so as to exit from the outlet of the air-mover to then be drawn into the inlet of the air-mover.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 16, 2001Publication date: November 22, 2001Inventors: Guy G. Morneault, Stephen G. Morneault
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Patent number: 6280686Abstract: There are described apparatus and methods wherein ultraviolet light kills and/or degrades and vaporizes microorganisms and organic material which naturally form over time on a heat exchanger. As this matter is eliminated, the pressure drop is decreased (i.e., airflow is increased) and the heat exchange efficiency (capacity) is increased. Less energy per Btu removed is used by the cooling system, and less energy is used by the HVAC system to move air.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 1998Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Steril-Aire U.S.A., Inc.Inventors: Robert Scheir, Forrest Fencl
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Patent number: 6267924Abstract: There are described apparatus and methods wherein ultraviolet light kills and/or degrades and vaporizes microorganisms and organic material which naturally form over time on a heat exchanger. As this matter is eliminated, the pressure drop is decreased (i.e., airflow is increased) and the heat exchange efficiency (capacity) is increased. Less energy per Btu removed is used by the cooling system, and less energy is used by the HVAC system to move air.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 1998Date of Patent: July 31, 2001Assignee: Steril-Aire U.S.A., Inc.Inventors: Forrest B. Fencl, Robert Scheir
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Patent number: 6245293Abstract: There are described apparatus and methods wherein ultraviolet light kills and/or degrades and vaporizes microorganisms and organic material which naturally form over time on a heat exchanger. As this matter is eliminated, the pressure drop is decreased (i.e., airflow is increased) and the heat exchange efficiency (capacity) is increased. Less energy per Btu removed is used by the cooling system, and less energy is used by the HVAC system to move air.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 1998Date of Patent: June 12, 2001Assignee: Steril-Aire U.S.A., Inc.Inventors: Forrest B. Fencl, Robert Scheir
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Patent number: 6245132Abstract: Electrically enhanced filter, includes a filter element, a pair of electrodes sandwiching the filter element, a DC, AC, pulse, or RF power supply coupled to the electrode to create an electrostatic field across the filter element and to produce attracting forces between micro-organisms contained in the air and the filter element, and a power supply creating a sterilizing electrical field, which may be either an RF, DC, pulse, or AC power supply coupled to the electrodes and creating discharging or non-discharging voltages on the filter element to destruct the micro-organisms at and in the vicinity of the filter element.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2000Date of Patent: June 12, 2001Assignee: Environmental Elements Corp.Inventors: Paul L. Feldman, Dennis J. Helfritch
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Patent number: 6245299Abstract: A device (10) for purifying a gas stream (30) made up of a plurality of DBD cells (12a, 12b, 12c) in series and, for each of the DBD cells (12a, 12b, 12c), a power supply (24a, 24b, 24e) for providing alternating current to each DBD cell (12a, 12b, 12e).Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 1999Date of Patent: June 12, 2001Assignee: State of Israel - Ministry of Defense Rafael Armament Development AuthorityInventors: Joseph Shiloh, Avner Rosenberg, Elhanan Wurzberg
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Patent number: 6242752Abstract: A translucent cover (9) is so provided as to cover a high pressure sodium lamp (11) adapted to radiate at least visible light and rays of light in the wavelength range of 300 nm to 400 nm. A photocatalytic film (13) which is capable of preventing generation of interference between visible light is formed on either one of or both the inner side and outer side of the translucent cover (9). The photocatalytic film (13) contains as the principal component titania (TiO2) of which the peak wavelength for visible light transmittance is nearly the same as the peak wavelength for visible light radiated from the high pressure sodium lamp (11). Ultraviolet light radiated from the high pressure sodium lamp (11) enhances oxidation and decomposition of substances performed by the photocatalytic film (13), thereby preventing grime and contaminants from adhering to the translucent cover (9).Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 1999Date of Patent: June 5, 2001Assignees: Toshiba Lighting and Technology Corp., Nihon Doro Kodan-Japan Highway Public Corp.Inventors: Ryuji Soma, Hisashi Honda, Ariyoshi Ishizaki, Tsutomu Watanabe, Hiroshi Kamata, Akiko Saitou, Akimasa Endou
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Patent number: 6238630Abstract: A photocatalyst device includes light guide member composed of a substantially transparent member having a first surface and/or a second surface, a plurality of diffusing areas and a plurality of non-diffusing areas disposed alternately on the first surface and/or the second surface, and photocatalyst member including photocatalyst material, being disposed adjacent to the transparent member, or being disposed on the transparent member. Further, a photocatalyst reactor includes the photocatalyst device as described in the above and one or more light sources generating light directed toward the transparent member. The transparent member may be composed of a transparent panel having a substantially uniform thickness or a substantially variable thickness. A density of the diffusing areas and/or the non-diffusing areas may be variably distributed on the first surface and/or the second surface. The diffusing areas may be rough surface areas and/or the non-diffusing areas may be smooth surface areas.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 1998Date of Patent: May 29, 2001Inventor: Keiji Iimura
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Patent number: 6228327Abstract: A germicidal UV chamber for use on air passing through a duct system, such as a central air system which replace one or more sections of the duct and, in essence, becomes part of the duct work. Each chamber is in the form of one or more ellipsoid sections which focus the energy uniformly throughout the chamber also positioned in the chamber is an ultraviolet transparent conduit through which a liquid such as water passes and is also germicidally cleansed.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2000Date of Patent: May 8, 2001Assignee: MolecuCare, Inc.Inventor: Arthur L. Matschke
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Patent number: 6221314Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 1997Date of Patent: April 24, 2001Inventor: Wil Bigelow
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Patent number: 6187271Abstract: Electrostatic precipitator is disclosed, including a discharge unit having ground electrodes and discharge electrodes, and a collecting unit having collecting electrodes and positive electrodes, wherein the discharge unit is applied of a voltage enough to emit a photo-energy which can activate a photo-catalyst, and a component in the electrostatic precipitator contains the photo-catalyst, or a separate photo-catalyst filter containing the photo-catalyst is provided within a reach of the photo-energy emitted from the discharge unit , thereby the photo-energy from the discharge unit activating the photo-catalyst, whereby providing a simple structured electrostatic precipitator making sterilization and deodorization at a low cost.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 1998Date of Patent: February 13, 2001Assignee: LG Electronics, Inc.Inventors: Sung Hwa Lee, Young Ki Hong, Kwang Ok Kang, Soo Yeon Shin, Kyeng Wook Heo, Jung Hun Kang, Akira Mizno
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Procedure and filter device for removal and/or destruction of organic substances in contaminated air
Patent number: 6179969Abstract: A procedure and a filter device (1) serving the purpose of removing and/or destruction organic substances in contaminated air. The filter device comprises at least one ventilator (12) for sending an air stream through a first chamber (14) with an opening, which is connected with a source for contaminated air; a second chamber (15) with a number of sheets (20) placed abeam the main direction of the air stream in order to make the air stream change direction at least one time; a third chamber (16) with a number of perforated tubes (22) which at least at one end are in open connection to a secondary air source; a fourth chamber with a number of lamps for radiating the air stream with a short-waved ultra-violet light and; a fifth chamber (17) with a volume, which gives the air stream a predetermined duration time in the chamber, and which has an opening, through which the purified air passes in order to be released to the surroundings.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 1998Date of Patent: January 30, 2001Assignee: Jimco A/SInventor: Jimmy Kjoelby Larsen -
Patent number: 6159422Abstract: The invention provides methods and apparatus for treating hazardous biological wastes. According to one exemplary method, a biological waste material is placed into a chamber and a vacuum is applied to the chamber. After the pressure within the chamber is sufficiently reduced, water vapor is introduced into the chamber and electromagnetic radiation energy is applied to produce a plasma. In one particularly preferable aspect, the chamber is allowed to reach a static condition before the water vapor is introduced. In this way, the water vapor is able to equally distribute itself throughout the volume of the chamber so that an equally distributed plasma can be produced upon application of the electromagnetic radiation energy.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 1998Date of Patent: December 12, 2000Assignee: Graves' Trust GroupInventors: Clinton G. Graves, Clinton G. Graves, II
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Patent number: 6139803Abstract: A process for photocatalytically treating a hospital room contaminated by bacteria or an interior environment bearing airborne malodorous substances. A thin film of photocatalyst made of a semiconductor such as titanium dioxide is disposed on the inner wall of the hospital room or living space. The photocatalytic thin film is irradiated by a light source suitable for general lighting applications, such as a fluorescent lamp, and is photoexcited by the small amount of ultraviolet radiation included in the light of the fluorescent lamp. The wattage of the fluorescent lamp as well as the distance between the photocatalytic thin film and the lamp are selected such that the intensity of those UV wavelengths which have a higher energy than the band gap energy of the photo-catalyst is 0.001-1 mW/cm.sup.2, preferably, 0.01-0.1 mW/cm.sup.2. The bacteria and chemical compounds deposited on the photoexcited thin film are photodecomposed.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 1998Date of Patent: October 31, 2000Assignee: Toto Co., Ltd.Inventors: Toshiya Watanabe, Atushi Kitamura, Eiichi Kojima, Kazuhito Hashimoto, Akira Fujishima
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Patent number: 6113861Abstract: A photocatalytic sheet which has a base made of polymeric organic compound, that is not decomposed by a photocatalytic function, and also hardly loses the photocatalytic function after washing and is capable of providing the photocatalytic function even in an environment without sufficient ultraviolet radiation from outside. Using a fiber, a filament, a yarn made of fibers or filaments, a ribbon, a knitted fabric, a woven fabric, a nonwoven fabric, or a film as the base, a base protective layer is formed on a part of the base, which is made of the polymeric organic compound, and a photocatalytic semiconductor layer is formed on the entire surface of the base including the base protective layer.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 1998Date of Patent: September 5, 2000Assignee: TAO, Inc.Inventor: Shiro Ogata
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Patent number: 6074748Abstract: A molded article having a photocatalytic function, a desired shape, a large contact area, and being sufficiently irradiated with ultraviolet rays, even at an inner surface thereof. Unit particles such as glass beads, or filaments such as fibers, are bonded to one another into the desired shape. Subsequently, a photocatalytic functional layer is formed on a surface of each particle or fiber. Particles of a spontaneous emission ultraviolet radiating material or light storage-type ultraviolet radiating material may be mixed in the molded article.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 1997Date of Patent: June 13, 2000Assignee: Tao Inc.Inventor: Shiro Ogata
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Patent number: 6071472Abstract: The photocatalytic action of titanium dioxide and the anti-odor activity of undecylenic acid or its compounds are combined in an atmospheric scrubbing or renewal system. The invention consists in placing a filter impregnated with these two substances and exposed to a natural or artificial source of ultraviolet radiation in the path of the air.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 1998Date of Patent: June 6, 2000Assignee: Elf Atochem S.A.Inventors: M. Henri-Jean Caupin, M. Joseph Dussaud
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Patent number: 6063170Abstract: This invention relates to an air filtration system including four principle segments interconnected in series as one unit through which contaminated air is passed. The first segment includes a prefilter for the removal of dust particles; the second segment is provided with germicidal UV lamps for bacteria removal; the third segment contains a medicated wet filtration system for virus removal, and the fourth segment contains a final carbon filter.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 1996Date of Patent: May 16, 2000Assignee: Air-A-Medic CorporationInventor: Ronald H. Deibert
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Patent number: 6063343Abstract: A compact, efficient reactor for the photocatalyzed conversion of contaminants in a fluid stream. The reactor includes a photocatalyst disposed on a support structure with a light source in optical proximity to the support structure to activate the photocatalyst. In one embodiment of the invention, the support structure includes multiple non-intersecting fins oriented parallel to the general flow direction of the fluid stream to provide a reactor with low pressure drop and adequate mass transfer of the contaminant to the photocatalyst disposed on the surface of the fins. The light source includes one or more lamps that may penetrate the fins to provide efficient illumination of the photocatalyst. The fins may be flat or pleated. In an alternative embodiment, the fins are pleated and composed of a porous material. These fins are oriented so that the fluid stream flows through the fins.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 1998Date of Patent: May 16, 2000Assignee: E. Heller & CompanyInventors: James Say, Roger Bonnecaze, Adam Heller, Steven Sitkiewitz, Ephraim Heller, Paul Haugsjaa
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Patent number: 6051194Abstract: A photochemical reactor system employing an optical fibers in the form of a cable to transmit light to solid-supported TiO.sub.2 -containing photocatalyst is disclosed. Light energy is transmitted to TiO.sub.2 -containing particles, chemically anchored onto one or more quartz fiber cores, via radial refraction of light out of each fiber. TiO.sub.2 -containing coating layer minimizes the interfacial surface area of the quartz core and TiO.sub.2 -containing particles and operation with incident irradiation angles near 90.degree. enhance light propagation along the fibers. A maximum quantum efficiency of .phi.=1.1% for the oxidation of 4-chlorophenol was achieved. Fiber efficiency permits the light source to be separated from the photocatalyst.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 1998Date of Patent: April 18, 2000Assignee: California Institute of TechnologyInventors: Nicola J. Peill, Michael R. Hoffman
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Patent number: 6048500Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for reducing pollutants in the exhaust gases produced from the combustion of a fuel by introducing hydroxyl and associated radicals and oxidizers into at least one of the precombustion and postcombustion gas stream of the combustion engine upstream of the catalytic converter and treating the exhaust gases with the catalytic converter.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 1998Date of Patent: April 11, 2000Assignee: Litex, Inc.Inventors: Robert P. Caren, Jack A. Ekchian
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Patent number: 6048499Abstract: An antiseptic clean system according to the invention is designed to effectively and thoroughly destruct not only drifting microbes but also germs that have fallen and are adhering to the panels and to the backsides and the gaps of the pieces of equipment installed in the room. It is adapted for use with a clean room provided with antiseptic panels and comprises one or more than one air conditioners, each having an air conditioner main body containing therein a photocatalyst so that air is fed back into the room after passing through the photocatalyst.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 1997Date of Patent: April 11, 2000Assignee: Hirayma Setsube Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Shoji Hirayama
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Patent number: 6033457Abstract: An oxygen generating system includes an oxygen generator having an oxygen ion conducting honeycomb structure and a heat exchanger thermally coupled to the oxygen generator. The system also includes a heater thermally coupled to the oxygen generator and a control module coupled to the oxygen generator and the heater. The control module monitors one or more of the system parameters and dynamically controls the oxygen generating system in response to the one or more system parameters such as, for example, varying the speed of a draft fan in the outlet waste air stream. A method of operating an oxygen generating system includes initializing the oxygen generating system in response to an operation status request and generating oxygen in an oxygen ion conducting honeycomb structure in response to a desired oxygen flow rate input.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 1998Date of Patent: March 7, 2000Assignee: OxyNet, Inc.Inventor: William N. Lawless
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Patent number: 6022511Abstract: A germicidal UV chamber for use on air passing through a duct system, such as a central air system which replace one or more sections of the duct and, in essence, becomes part of the duct work. Each chamber is in the form of one or more ellipsoid sections which focus the energy uniformly throughout the chamber. A chamber is mounted at each return vent to cleanse the air from a room as it returns to the duct system. In addition, where exterior contamination is feared, outside air entering the system may also be treated. Chambers may be connected by their respective ducts in series or in parallel.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 1998Date of Patent: February 8, 2000Assignee: MolecuCare, Inc.Inventor: Arthur L. Matschke
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Patent number: 5993738Abstract: A method for disinfecting an airstream containing microorganisms by electrostatic precipitation by passing the airstream through the space between at least one grounded collection plate having at least one electrode spaced apart therefrom connected to a source of electrical potential, wherein the improvement comprises contacting the airstream with a photocatalyst having a predetermined band gap energy coated on the surface of each grounded collection plate and illuminated with photons having a wavelength corresponding to the band gap energy of the photocatalyst, so that at least a portion of the microorganisms that collect on the grounded collection plate are destroyed by photocatalytic oxidation. Devices embodying disinfecting methods are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 1998Date of Patent: November 30, 1999Assignee: Universal Air TechnologyInventor: D. Yogi Goswani
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Patent number: 5980610Abstract: An apparatus and process that utilize a low temperature nonequilibrium plasma reactor, for improving the particulate removal efficiency of an electrostatic precipitator (ESP) are disclosed. A portion of the flue gas, that contains a low level of SO.sub.2 O.sub.2 H.sub.2 O, and particulate matter, is passed through a low temperature plasma reactor, which defines a plasma volume, thereby oxidizing a portion of the SO.sub.2 present in the flue gas into SO.sub.3. An SO.sub.2 rich flue gas is thereby generated. The SO.sub.3 rich flue gas is then returned to the primary flow of the flue gas in the exhaust treatment system prior to the ESP. This allows the SO.sub.3 to react with water to form H.sub.2 SO.sub.4 that is in turn is absorbed by fly ash in the gas stream in order to improve the removal efficiency of the EPS.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 1997Date of Patent: November 9, 1999Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of EnergyInventors: Hann-Sheng Huang, Anthony J. Gorski
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Patent number: 5968455Abstract: In a first aspect of the invention, an ultraviolet air sterilization device includes a housing and one or more mounts which connect to germicidal lamp units which protrude into the air stream of an air handling duct. Each lamp has an integral receptacle with an electrical connection for attachment to a source of power from within the housing. The receptacle/lamp combination provides stiffening reinforcement to the lamp. The receptacles connect to their corresponding mounts by means of a threaded connection which enables the lamp units to be easily removed from within the air handling duct. In a second aspect of the invention, a mobile ultraviolet sterilization is provided. The mobile ultraviolet sterilization device includes the sterilization device of the first aspect mounted to a mobile platform or frame. A handle is also provided enabling an operator to traverse the sterilization device over a floor covering at a desired speed.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 1999Date of Patent: October 19, 1999Inventor: James Lawrence Brickley
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Patent number: 5961929Abstract: The present invention includes an oxygen generator having a ceramic honeycomb body. The honeycomb body includes one or more oxygen collection channels which extend laterally across a plurality of second channels in which oxygen is generated via the conduction of oxygen ions from a source gas residing in or passing through a plurality of first channels. The oxygen collection channels are located either positionally along a face of the generator, on one longitudinal end of the generator or are staggered about the side face such that the oxygen collection channels do not substantially impact the structural integrity of the honeycomb body. In addition, a method in which a honeycomb body having oxygen collection channels at its face includes extruding a ceramic body and forming one or more channels at a face of the extruded body. The method further includes forming electrodes within the body and sealing selected channels for the collection of oxygen.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 1997Date of Patent: October 5, 1999Assignee: CeramPhysics, Inc.Inventor: William N. Lawless
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Patent number: 5961920Abstract: The invention relates to a method for treatment of fluids, the invention being characterized in that ozone is generated in the medium, which ozone is exposed to UV radiation at the same time as it is being generated, so that the ozone is broken down and free radicals are obtained. The invention also relates to an apparatus in accordance with the method, which apparatus comprises an enclosure (1) provided with at least one inlet (2) and at least one outlet (3). The apparatus is characterized in that an oxidizing member (4) is arranged in the enclosure (1) and generates ozone and at the same time breaks down the ozone to free radicals.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 1997Date of Patent: October 5, 1999Assignee: Benrad AktiebolagInventor: Rune Soremark
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Patent number: 5961919Abstract: A deodorizing and disinfecting apparatus having catalyst deterioration detection function of the present invention comprises: an air supply portion for inhaling air inside; an ozone generating portion for discharging ozone to the inhaled air: a catalyst for accelerating deodorizing and disinfecting actions and decomposition of the ozone disposed downstream from the ozone generating portion; an ozone sensor for detecting the concentration of remaining ozone disposed downstream from the catalyst; and means for repeating a cycle including stop of ozone discharge from the ozone generating portion for a predetermined time period when the concentration of the remaining ozone reaches a predetermined concentration or more, and for determining that the catalyst is deteriorated when a condition wherein an interval between times when the concentration of the remaining ozone is not less than a predetermined concentration becomes shorter than a predetermined time period is recognized at a predetermined frequency, and thenType: GrantFiled: March 12, 1998Date of Patent: October 5, 1999Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hirokazu Tachibana, Akiyoshi Hattori, Nobuyuki Yoshiike, Akihiko Yoshida
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Patent number: 5958336Abstract: A device for surface sterilization of objects includes a housing, a conveyor assembly including a frame, a conveyor bed selectively movably connected to the frame and a plurality of legs spacedly disposed beneath and supporting the frame above a support surface. At least part of the conveyor bed is located longitudinally within the housing to thereby movably support objects to be surface sterilized as they are passed through the housing from a contaminated area to a clean area. An air filtration system is in communication with the housing, and at least one ultraviolet light assembly is located within of the housing to decontaminate the object to be surface sterilized within the sterilization device as the object is transferred via the conveyor through the housing and into the clean area.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 1996Date of Patent: September 28, 1999Inventor: Raul Duarte
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Patent number: 5948355Abstract: An air-purifying filter includes a carrier base and a TiO.sub.2 -Pd composite catalyst supported on the carrier base. CO in air treated by the filter is adsorbed onto the Pd surface and thus decomposed by oxidization to CO.sub.2, whereas sulfur compounds in the air are adsorbed onto the Pd surface and then transferred to the TiO.sub.2 surface where they are decomposed by oxidization to SO.sub.4.sup.-2 when the TiO.sub.2 is subjected to irradiation. Preferably, Pd exists in a relatively small quantity at a first side of the carrier base in the vicinity of a light source and in a greater quantity at a second side opposite the first side. The first side is preferably located upstream relative to flow of air treated by the filter. An air-purifier utilizing this filter is mounted in an automobile, preferably on a rear shelf or in a trunk compartment.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 1997Date of Patent: September 7, 1999Assignees: Akira Fujishima, Kazuhito Hashimoto, KabushikiKaisha Equos Research, Aisin Aw Co., Ltd.Inventors: Akira Fujishima, Kazuhito Hashimoto, Shuzo Moroto, Masao Ando, Masako Sakai
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Patent number: 5938823Abstract: Air cleansing apparatus includes an electrostatic precipitator in which the collector plates are made of, for instance, reticulated chemical vapor deposited silicon carbide, or reticulated silicon carbide ceramic coated with titanium nitride, zirconium diboride, or chemical vapor deposited silicon carbide. Microorganisms entrained on the collector plates are thermally degraded or vaporized by microwave radiation directed against the plates during a sterilization period which follows a collection period.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 1997Date of Patent: August 17, 1999Assignee: Carrier CorporationInventors: David A. Condit, Timothy N. Obee, Willard H. Sutton, Richard R. Grzybowski, Christopher M. Pater, Antonio Rinaldi, Sunita Satyapal, Wayde R. Schmidt, Charles R. Winston, Michael Winter
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Patent number: 5939026Abstract: An electron beam gas processing apparatus includes a single vacuum vessel maintained at vacuum by means of a vacuum pump and first and second lenses are disposed in the vacuum vessel. An electron beam emitted from an electron source is focused by each of the lenses, and the electron beam is irradiated onto a processing gas in a duct. When the current value of the electron beam is increased as the concentration of NOx in the processing gas increases, the focal distance is decreased by increasing the intensity of magnetic fields or the intensity of electric fields of the lenses in accordance with the current value of a filament, the current value of an arc power supply and the gas pressure in a gas reservoir and the first lens is moved toward a draw-out electrode and the second lens is moved toward the duct, so that a parallel electron beam of constant diameter is formed and the electron beam can be prevented from being increased in focusing diameter.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 1997Date of Patent: August 17, 1999Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Hirofumi Seki, Hirofumi Shirakata, Yasuro Hori, Shigeo Shiono
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Patent number: 5935525Abstract: An air abatement system that includes a pre-treatment system and an air treatment system for abatement of contaminated air that includes pollutants such as V.O.C.s, NOx, and/or CO. The air stream is treated using activated air, activated water, and ultraviolet light under conditions that produce hyroxyls, peroxides, and other oxidants without the formation of ozone. These oxidants are also utilized in the activated air, with the activated water being formed as an aqueous solution of the activated air. The pre-treatment system includes a quenching zone where activated water is misted into the air stream, followed by alternating reaction zones and depletion zones where activated air is added and then turbulently mixed with the air stream. The air treatment system includes a primary treatment tunnel, carbon bed system, activated air generator, and a sparger tank farm. Activated air produced by the generator as added into water while being exposed to ultraviolet light in the sparger tank farm.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 1996Date of Patent: August 10, 1999Assignee: Tri-Mark CorporationInventors: Phillip A. Lincoln, Jessie E. Roberts
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Patent number: 5925320Abstract: An air purification system comprises a housing, a generally S-shaped duct mounted within the housing, at least one blower mounted within the housing for circulating air through the system, and purification structure for removing contaminants from the air. The system preferably comprises two blowers, a master control switch for activating one of the blowers to circulate air through the filter, and a secondary control switch for activating the other blower and the UVC source to initiate a UVC purification process to further purify the filtered air.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 1997Date of Patent: July 20, 1999Inventor: John P. Jones
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Patent number: 5919422Abstract: A photo-catalyzer for deodorizing, cleaning, sterilizing, and water purifying operations includes a substrate, a titanium dioxide film disposed on the substrate and functioning as a photo-catalyst, and a light-emitting diode disposed adjacent to the titanium dioxide film and producing ultraviolet light having a wavelength from 360 to 400 nm onto the titanium dioxide film. The photo-catalyzer can be used in places where there is no sunlight because it is optionally provided with a light-emitting diode. The light-emitting diode does not require a large installation space because it is an extremely small light-emitting device. Hence, the photo-catalyzer has a compact structure and can be used easily anywhere, including small places. The substrate can be fabricated into a variety of useful appliances to take advantage of the strong oxidizing properties of the photo-catalyzer.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 1996Date of Patent: July 6, 1999Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.Inventors: Osamu Yamanaka, Tadanobu Iwasa, Makoto Tamaki, Kazuhiro Sakai, Hisao Yamaguchi
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Patent number: 5912396Abstract: The system includes a platform assembly which includes a plurality of helium airships for support of an emitting electrode to produce a large amount of electrical charges, in the form of electrons, into the surrounding atmosphere. The electrons may be generated by various apparati, including field induced emission and ultraviolet induced emission and ionization. Also provided are a large bank of solar cells to produce the necessary power for the assembly and a propulsion system, either a propeller system or an ion engine. A positive electrode may also be included which collects the undesirable atmospheric elements, such as chlorine atoms, to which negative charges have become attached. Alternatively, the platform could be arranged to include a negatively charged surface at which chlorofluorocarbons, for instance, can dissociate after they come in contact with negative charges.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 1997Date of Patent: June 15, 1999Inventor: Alfred Y. Wong
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Patent number: 5902552Abstract: An ultraviolet air sterilization device includes a housing and one or more mounts which connect to germicidal lamp units which protrude into the air stream of an air handling duct. Each lamp has an integral receptacle with an electrical connection for attachment to a source of power from within the housing. The receptacle/lamp combination provides stiffening reinforcement to the lamp. The receptacles connect to their corresponding mounts by means of a threaded connection which enables the lamp units to be easily removed from within the air handling duct.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 1998Date of Patent: May 11, 1999Inventor: James Lawrence Brickley
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Patent number: 5897471Abstract: A first embodiment upper body muscle toner device and leg and knee exerciser (12) comprising a U-shaped flexure member (14) and a pair of handgrips (16). Each handgrip (16) is on an opposite end of the U-shaped flexure member (14), so that a person can grasp the handgrips (16) to flex the U-shaped flexure member (24) in and out with arm power to tone up the upper body muscles and exercise the legs and knees during a workout exercise. A second embodiment upper body muscle toner device and leg and knee exerciser (12a) contains two different types of removable extended handgrips (16a) and (16b) on the ends of the U-shaped flexure member (14a). A third embodiment upper body muscle toner device and leg and knee exerciser (12b) consists of the U-shaped flexure member (14b) being a curved tube piece (50) and a pair of straight tube pieces (52) connected with two springs (54).Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 1998Date of Patent: April 27, 1999Inventors: William Multanen, Paris Williams
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Patent number: 5894130Abstract: An ultraviolet sterilization unit having a housing attached to an air heating and cooling system. The housing including two apertures into which lamp cartridges are inserted. The lamp cartridges carrying ultraviolet lamps operating in a frequency capable of sterilizing air within the system. The cartridges are configured to automatically de-energize the lamps when a lamp cartridge is removed from the housing. When the sterilization unit is a multiple lamp system, when one of the lamp cartridges is removed all lamps are de-energized. The de-energizing of the lamps occurring before a user will view the lamp.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 1997Date of Patent: April 13, 1999Assignee: Aquatron, Inc.Inventor: Stanley W. Bach
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Patent number: 5891399Abstract: A device used in an air purifying system. The device includes an ultraviolet radiation source, a pre-filter, and a post-filter. The pre-filter is arranged adjacent to the ultraviolet light source such that the pre-filter is irradiated by the ultraviolet light source to destroy bacteria, virus, or other organisms on the pre-filter. The device also includes a cover that is movable between an open and closed position. In the closed position, the device operates in a passive mode to irradiate air within the device and to filter air through filters in the device. In the open position, the device operates in an active mode to irradiate an area external of the device and to simultaneously filter air through a filter in the device.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 1997Date of Patent: April 6, 1999Assignee: Klean AsInventor: Yngvar S. Owesen
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Patent number: 5866076Abstract: A germicidal lamp is disclosed. The lamp's tube has a single stem and may be installed in the lamp's fixture without touching the tube's envelope. The fixture includes a mounting mechanism and a damping mechanism which ease installation and render the tube less susceptible to adverse forces.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 1996Date of Patent: February 2, 1999Assignee: Steril-Aire U.S.A., Inc.Inventors: Forrest B. Fencl, Robert M. Culbert
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Patent number: 5861127Abstract: A portable air purifying apparatus including a high frequency voltage booster and an anion generator. The high frequency voltage booster is comprised of a control box accommodating therein a circuit board and two batteries. The circuit board has electronic components assembled thereon to form a high frequency high voltage circuit for generating high frequency high voltage pulse currents when the batteries supply electric currents. The anion generator is comprised of a generator body accommodating therein a discharge electrode, a necklace attached to the generator body, and a terminal connector. The generator body has two air vents. The high frequency voltage booster and the anion generator may be carried around by the user.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 1997Date of Patent: January 19, 1999Inventor: Kuo Chung Yeh
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Patent number: 5837207Abstract: A lightweight portable germicidal air filter for home and personal use is disclosed. The air filter includes a cabinet which houses an electrostatic air filter, an ultraviolet lamp and a parabolic reflector or a convex lens for focusing the ultraviolet radiation emitted by the lamp on an upstream side of the air filter. The reflector or the lens are constantly oscillated to systematically sweep the upstream side of the filter with germicidal levels of radiation. A fan located adjacent the downstream side of the filter draws air through the filter and impels it out through areas for air outlet in the sidewalls of the cabinet. The advantage is a simple, lightweight germicidal air filter with few moving parts which is inexpensive to manufacture.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 1997Date of Patent: November 17, 1998Assignee: Engineering Dynamics LimitedInventor: George Robert Summers
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Patent number: 5795131Abstract: A ceiling fan for cleaning air in a room wherein each blade of the ceiling fan has a cavity open to the top and bottom surfaces of each fan blade and a filter unit in each of the cavities but within the confines of the fan blade such that, when the ceiling fan is operated, the airflow created by the ceiling fan will be forced through the filter unit from the bottom surface through to the top surface, wherein the filter units can collect airborne particles.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 1996Date of Patent: August 18, 1998Assignee: ClairIon Inc.Inventors: Paul E. Crowhurst, David Lekhtman