Ozonizers Patents (Class 422/186.07)
  • Publication number: 20040076559
    Abstract: A device for producing singlet oxygen and having a light source and a transparent medium is described. The transparent medium has a first surface and second surface, the first surface facing the light source and a region which contains a photosensitizer are disposed on the second surface. The transparent medium is completely closed against a surrounding medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Franz Brucker, Michael Koehl, Volker Lieske
  • Publication number: 20040076560
    Abstract: The present invention provides an ozonizer in which a discharge region may be increased without damaging ozone generating performance. In the ozonizer, electrode module(s) 102 an alternating current is applied between a first electrode 7 and a second electrode 3, and a discharge is brought about in a gap of the discharge region which is injected with a gas containing at least oxygen gas. In the first electrode 7, an ozone gas passage (8) for taking out ozone gas generated by the discharge region is formed between an electrode surface facing the discharge region and a side portion. A plurality of the ozone gas passages are dispersed in the first electrode. The plurality of ozone gas passages (8) collect and draw out ozone gas generated at a plurality of the discharge region locations inside the first electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Youichiro Tabata, Akaru Usui, Yujiro Okihara, Tetsuya Saitsu, Norimitsu Esaki, Hajime Nakatani
  • Patent number: 6723294
    Abstract: An ozone generator includes a dielectric member having first and second faces, a first electrode provided on the first face of the member, and a second electrode provided on the second face of the member. The first electrode can be an electrically conductive plate, having a first and a second face. It is provided with at least one elongated recess in the first face. The first face is in contact with the first face of the dielectric member, such that the recess(es) and the dielectric member define channels in cooperation with the dielectric plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Otre AB
    Inventor: Kjell Ekberg
  • Patent number: 6723293
    Abstract: The system and method utilizes an apparatus for generating ozone having, preferably, a first electrode positioned within a channel in a second electrode. The first electrode is a tube made of dielectric material, having at least one electron gun positioned proximate an end thereof for firing electrons. In electrical communication with the electron gun is a rod, maintained in a tube also made of dielectric material, which acts to maintain a constant energy level through the length of the rod. Within the first electrode is an inert gas which, upon the firing of the electron gun, is formed into a plasma. When a feed gas (generally air) is passed between the first and second electrodes, the electrons and plasma cause the formation of ozone. The treated feed gas is then injected into the water to be treated. Preferably, the water is then centrifuged before introduction in the cooling tower system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Nytrox 1, Inc.
    Inventor: Lonald H. Jensen
  • Publication number: 20040071614
    Abstract: Oxygen in the air passing through the duct, is converted into ozone for delivery to combustion and oxygenation processes. A conducting element 12 supported on an insulated standoff 13 within a conducting duct 11 has a voltage applied between element 12 and duct 11. This voltage produces a corona on the element whereby ozone is generated. Addition of a grid 24 enhances ozone production. In addition, a provision to vary the voltage on grid 24 whereby the ozone production is controlled further enhances the device. In addition standoff 13 carries supply wire 14 whereby the electrical connection to element 12 is facilitated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Alan Frank Kravitz
  • Publication number: 20040067178
    Abstract: A system and method for treating a mold-infected building with hollow walls, ceilings, or floors using a relatively high concentration of ozone. The system includes an ozone generator that includes inlet and outlet ports that supply a constant, relatively low pressure flow of ozone to a continuous space formed inside a wall, floor, or ceiling. Special connectors are used that are inserted into two port openings formed on the wall that enables ozone to slowly flow into and out of the continuous space formed in the wall. The concentration of ozone and rate of flow is sufficient so that the ozone has sufficient time to kill the mold spores without dislodging them.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Publication date: April 8, 2004
    Inventor: Daniel Molleker
  • Patent number: 6713027
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for the use of ozone as a sterilant for many classes of surgical instruments which are at least partially metallic. Three features are the connection of a voltage carrying part of the instrument to be sterilized as the electrode of an ozone generating cell, which employs a glow discharge and maintaining the temperature of this electrode below 500° C., and that no solid dielectric exists between opposed electrodes in the ozone generating cell. Ozone is thereby localized about voltage carrying and any non-voltage carrying parts of the electrode connected instrument. The control of electrode heating helps to maintain the increasing atmospheric concentration of the ozone, which will however eventually reach a natural limit. Local heating of the electrode configuration is controlled where the instrument to be sterilized is connected at least periodically as the negative electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignee: Electroclave
    Inventor: James F. McNulty, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20040057882
    Abstract: An air conditioner device includes a housing, a first electrode disposed in the housing, and a second electrode removably disposed in the housing. The second electrode can be manually removed from the housing and then manually returned to a resting position within the housing. A base member is attached to a bottom portion of the second electrode. An at least partially flexible cleaning member is attached to the base member. The cleaning member frictionally cleans the first electrode when, after being removed from the housing, the second electrode is manually returned to the resting position within the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Applicant: Sharper Image Corporation
    Inventors: Shek Fai Lau, Jimmy Luther Lee, Andrew J. Parker
  • Patent number: 6709577
    Abstract: An apparatus for treating water with ozone includes a first conduit and a passageway for admitting ozone into the first conduit. There is a second conduit having a top, an inlet connected to the first conduit and an outlet. There is a third conduit having a top and a vertical portion extending downwardly adjacent to the outlet of the second conduit. The third conduit has a bottom with an outlet below the outlet of the second conduit. The outlet of the second conduit is no more than one-third the distance from the top of the third conduit to the outlet of the third conduit. There is a passageway connecting the third conduit to the first conduit above the outlet of the second conduit. The passageway is sized to permit a reduced flow of water through the third conduit compared to the flow through the second conduit and provides means for gas discharged from the outlet of the second conduit to rise through the vertical portion of the third conduit to increase dissolving of the gas in the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Northern Research Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald Shaw
  • Publication number: 20040052701
    Abstract: An ozonizer has a flat plate-shaped low voltage electrode and a flat plate-shaped high voltage electrode facing a main surface of the low voltage electrode. The ozonizer also has a flat plate-shaped dielectric and a spacer for forming a discharge gap having a thickness in a laminating direction, provided between the low voltage electrode and the electrode, an electrode cooling sheet facing a main surface of the electrode at a side opposite the discharge gap for cooling the electrode. The ozonizer also has a thermally conducting and electrically insulating sheet sandwiched between the electrode and the electrode cooling sheet. An alternating voltage is applied between the low voltage electrode and the electrode and a discharge is produced in the discharge gap so that, when filled with oxygen, ozone gas is produced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2002
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yujiro Okihara, Youichiro Tabata, Akaru Usui, Hiromichi Komiya, Yuji Ganryu, Masaki Kuzumoto, Noboru Wada, Koji Ohta, Shigenori Yagi, Hirozoh Kanegae
  • Publication number: 20040047776
    Abstract: Air decontamination method and device designed for bioterrorism, nerve gas, toxic mold, small pox, Ebola, anthrax and other agents require built in air sampling, rapid filter changes and the ability to use a mobile, transportable and connectable system in positive mode to push contaminates away or in negative mode to contain a toxin from spreading. This application combines features in respirators, industrial and hospital grade air filtration with the ability to provide air testing to guide the connection of the device with other treatment modules or existing HVAC and other equipment. With this new flexibility, ozone, UV, absorption, Thermal destruction, filters and liquid chemical neutralization can be manually or automatically adapted for emergency response to both daily airborne contamination and military grade terrorist threats of airborne contamination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: James M. Thomsen
  • Publication number: 20040047775
    Abstract: A personal electro-kinetic electrostatic air conditioner includes a self-contained ion generator that provides electro-kinetically moved air with ions and safe amounts of ozone, and includes a water retaining element to increase humidity of the output air flow. The ion generator includes a high voltage pulse generator whose output pulses are coupled between first and second electrode arrays. Preferably the first electrode array includes first and second pointed electrodes, and the second electrode array includes annular-like electrodes having a central opening coaxial with the associated pointed electrode. The surface of the annular-like electrodes is smooth and continuous through the opening and into a collar region through which the air flows. A water retaining member is disposed surrounding the output airflow to increase humidity of the output air, which is substantially cleansed of particulate matter, and contains safe amounts of ozone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Applicant: Sharper Image Corporation
    Inventors: Shek Fai Lau, Charles E. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6699441
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for purifying the water in spas or hot tubs are provided. Such apparatus include an ozone generator sized and adapted to purify the water in a spa or jetted tub, the ozone generator including a chip electrode assembly adapted to produce ozone from air using an electric discharge, a housing structured to permit visual inspection of the chip electrode in the housing, a power supply assembly, and a transfer assembly cooperating with said ozone generator to pass ozone produced by the ozone generator to the water in the spa or jetted tub. The chip electrode assembly is removably secured to and separately enclosed from the power supply assembly and is adapted to be easily, manually replaceable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Del Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Frank G. Martin
  • Publication number: 20040031676
    Abstract: Corona discharge cells for the production of ozone are respectively constructed of inner electrodes fabricated from metal bar, a dielectric sleeve and outer electrodes. Spacers and/or sealing rings isolate a corona discharge producing region from ambient conditions. The surfaces of the inner electrodes can be roughed to enhance ozone production within the corona discharge producing region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2003
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Inventors: John Lionel Brauer, David Kerin Leigh Noller
  • Patent number: 6692634
    Abstract: The invention relates to chemistry and in particular to technology for processing hydrocarbon fuel, including engine fuel. The invention makes it possible to obtain a fuel with high cetane and octane numbers by means of the following: the initial fuel supply occurs simultaneously with ejection; an ozone containing gas is fed into the ejection area; turbulent flows are created by displacement of such a mixture; the transformed mixture is directed into a volume with a stable pressure level; and thermodynamic equalization of the mixture parameters is achieved. During thermodynamic equalization, sprayed water is injected into said mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventors: Leonid Yakovlevich, Andrei Grigorievich Lyapin
  • Publication number: 20040028576
    Abstract: Methods of providing ozone at a selected pressure above atmospheric pressure include supplying a purge gas supply (22) pressurized above the selected pressure to at least one ozone adsorption apparatus (12); desorbing ozone from the ozone adsorption apparatus (12) with the pressurized purge gas supply (22); and delivering a mixture of ozone and the purge gas supply (24) at the selected pressure without further compression.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Applicant: The BOC Group Inc.
    Inventor: Ravi Jain
  • Publication number: 20040020863
    Abstract: The method of controlling ozone supply to a pool or spa body of liquid, that includes providing an ozone generator; providing a control valve operatively connected to the generator to control induced flow of ozone to a pool or spa body of liquid, the valve being solenoid controlled; providing a control for timing of operation of the valve; and providing for controlled delivery of ozone via the valve to air supply to the pool or spa or a re-circulating liquid supply to the pool or spa. The invention allows newly designed or pre-existing systems to add ozone gas to a water body, under the control of a valve, without losing sealed integrating of the air delivery system to the water body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2002
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventor: Jeffrey W. Collins
  • Patent number: 6682707
    Abstract: An automobile air filter comprising a filter element, an outer hood receiving the filter element, and a plurality of metal electrodes arranged in the filter element. Each pair of the metal electrodes is connected by a cable and pass through the outer hood. A high voltage generator circuit is installed at appropriate location of an automobile for generating instantaneous high voltage to provide instantaneous high voltage power to each pair of metal electrodes, so that the metal electrodes generate high voltage flashes and ozone to purify the air flowing in the filter element and increase oxygen content in the air intake in the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Kiwi Auto Accessories Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Lance Chao
  • Patent number: 6680033
    Abstract: A large amount of treated gas containing odor components is efficiently deodorized by performing ozone deodorization after water molecule deodorization, and thereafter performing ion deodorization. A composite deodorization system is provided with a first chamber for performing the water molecule deodorization connected with a fermentation system by a gas introduction opening supplied with the treated gas containing odor components from the fermentation system, a second chamber for performing ozone deodorization connected with the first chamber by a flow passage tube, a third chamber for performing ion deodorization connected with the second chamber by a connection tube, an ozone filter incorporated at a connection position of the second chamber and the connection tube, and a third chamber having a gas discharge opening for discharging the treated gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Asahi Environmental System Ltd.
    Inventor: Hideaki Ishii
  • Publication number: 20040005253
    Abstract: A liquid barrier is disclosed that comprises a porous hydrophobic material which allows the flow of gases (e.g., corrosive gases) but inhibits the flow of liquids, including aqueous liquids. A specific embodiment of the invention relates to a venturi which incorporates a liquid barrier that allows the flow of gases (e.g., ozone and air) but inhibits the flow of liquids. Another specific embodiment of the invention relates to an ozone generation system that includes an ozone generator and a liquid barrier made of a porous hydrophobic material, which allows the flow of ozone but inhibits the flow back of liquids to the ozone generator. The invention also encompasses methods of introducing a gas into an aqueous liquid, wherein the gas passes through a liquid barrier prior to being introduced into the aqueous liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Publication date: January 8, 2004
    Inventors: Timothy A. Martin, Michael A. Clendening, Thomas H. Ramsey
  • Patent number: 6674084
    Abstract: There is disclosed an improved radiation source module having a power supply adapted to be at least partially immersed in a fluid being treated. In one embodiment, the power supply is partly immersed in the fluid being treated. In another embodiment, the power supply is fully submersible in the fluid being treated. A fluid treatment system comprising the radiation source module is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Trojan Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael P. Sarchese, Frank A. Stauder
  • Publication number: 20030226751
    Abstract: Loosely packed electrically conductive material is retained within a tube of dielectric material. A sheath of electrically conductive material surrounds the tube. A pair of electrodes, adapted to be connected to a source of high voltage are electrically connected to the material and the sheath, respectively, to generate corona discharge between the material and the tube and between elements of the material to transform oxygen molecules in a gas passing through the material in the tube into ozone to produce an ozone enriched outflow of gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2003
    Publication date: December 11, 2003
    Inventor: Stephen P. Kasten
  • Patent number: 6652816
    Abstract: An apparatus for generating ozone and anion capable of respectively controlling an ozone generator and an anion generator is disclosed. The apparatus includes an ozone generator, an ozone generator-driving portion, a second power source supplying power to the ozone generator-driving portion, an anion generator, an anion generator-driving portion, a circulating fan circulating the generated anion, a first power source supplying power to the anion generator-driving portion, a selecting valve selectively discharging the anion generated from the anion generator to a water purifier 100 or an ozone container, an activated carbon filter removing smell of the ozone introduce through the selecting valve into the water purifier, a controlling portion controlling the anion generator-driving portion and the ozone generator-driving portion, an operating portion inputting an external instruction to the controlling portion, and a timer controlling a reserving function of the operating portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Inventor: Hyeon-Bae Hwang
  • Publication number: 20030198580
    Abstract: An electric ozone toothbrush mainly has a guide tube installed in an interior portion of a handle and a brush head of a regular electric toothbrush connecting with a bristle end of the brush head; the other end of the guide tube joins with a coil tube of an ozone generator; an air pump disposed inside the ozone generator guides the ozone into the bristle end of the brush head such that the released ozone sterilizes, deodorizes, whitens the teeth, disinfects and detoxifies during the brushing application of the electric toothbrush.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2002
    Publication date: October 23, 2003
    Inventor: Ching-Fu Chen
  • Publication number: 20030198571
    Abstract: Apparatus is provided for the sterilization of Prion infected surgical tools and the method for such sterilization includes disposing Prion infected surgical tools in the chamber, evacuating the chamber and introducing ozone into the chamber for a period of time sufficient to oxidize Prion amino acids. During this exposure the tools are agitated in order to insure all surface areas are exposed to the ozone. Following sterilization the ozone and sterilized tools are removed from the chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Publication date: October 23, 2003
    Inventor: Edward Lynch
  • Patent number: 6635153
    Abstract: An apparatus for purifying air comprising two electrodes having a dielectric material such as glass extending therebetween. The dielectric material is air permeable, for example, in the form of a bed of discrete particles such as glass beads. The electrodes are also air permeable, allowing the air to flow through the electrodes and dielectric. Ozone is generated by discharge at points of contact of the dielectric particles. Airflow through the device is improved, allowing greater cooling, and higher volumes of airflow but at lower concentrations of ozone production than with prior art devices, thus reducing toxicity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: The Victoria University of Manchester
    Inventor: John C. Whitehead
  • Publication number: 20030194358
    Abstract: An ozone generator including a pair of electrodes separated by a dielectric element including a plurality of passages defining a corona discharge zone. In one embodiment of the invention, the passages may be convoluted in the sense that the lengths of the passages defining the corona discharge zone are greater than the length of the first and second electrodes and the dielectric element. This configuration provides for an extended period of exposure of the gas to the electric field and may result in production of ozone exhibiting improved stability and oxidation rate. In one embodiment, inner and outer concentric electrodes are held in spaced apart relationship by a concentric tubular dielectric. A corona discharge zone is defined between an inner surface of the outer tubular electrode and the outer surface of the concentric tubular dielectric by a plurality of passages formed on the outer surface of the concentric tubular dielectric.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2002
    Publication date: October 16, 2003
    Inventor: Bruce E. Minter
  • Patent number: 6632407
    Abstract: A personal electro-kinetic electrostatic air conditioner includes a self-contained ion generator that provides electro-kinetically moved air with ions and safe amounts of ozone, and includes a water retaining element to increase humidity of the output air flow. The ion generator includes a high voltage pulse generator whose output pulses are coupled between first and second electrode arrays. Preferably the first electrode array includes first and second pointed electrodes, and the second electrode array includes annular-like electrodes having a central opening coaxial with the associated pointed electrode. The surface of the annular-like electrodes is smooth and continuous through the opening and into a collar region through which the air flows. A water retaining member is disposed surrounding the output airflow to increase humidity of the output air, which is substantially cleansed of particulate matter, and contains safe amounts of ozone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Assignee: Sharper Image Corporation
    Inventors: Shek Fai Lau, Charles E. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6630105
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for decontaminating chemical and biological agents using the reactive properties of both the single atomic oxygen and the hydroxyl radical for the decontamination of chemical and biological agents. The apparatus is self contained and portable and allows for the application of gas reactants directly at the required decontamination point. The system provides for the use of ultraviolet light of a specific spectral range to photolytically break down ozone into molecular oxygen and hydroxyl radicals where some of the molecular oxygen is in the first excited state. The excited molecular oxygen will combine with water vapor to produce two hydroxyl radicals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2003
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
    Inventors: Hugh J. O'Neill, Kenneth L. Brubaker
  • Patent number: 6623635
    Abstract: An ozone water purification system is disclosed. In this system, ozonated water flow proceeds alternately upwardly and downwardly through a series of vertical tubes. In order to disturb the laminar flow within the tubes, several types of turbulence-inducing devices may be mounted within the tubes. Such a mounting may be made so that the devices are removable for cleaning. In addition, the tubes may be circularly arranged so as to conserve space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Inventor: Ronald L. Barnes
  • Publication number: 20030165411
    Abstract: A module containing a pair of generally concentric cylinders with a dielectric cylinder disposed therebetween is connected to a source of air under pressure to provide an air flow intermediate the concentric cylinders and on either side of the encircled dielectric cylinder. Clips, connected to a source of high voltage, detachably engage the outer cylinder and a boss electrically connected to the inner cylinder to provide a voltage potential between the generally concentric cylinders of sufficient magnitude to cause an electrostatic discharge through the space therebetween. The use of an electrically high resistance dielectric cylinder between the generally concentric cylinders will tend to provide a uniform electrostatic discharge along the length of the generally concentric cylinders.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2003
    Publication date: September 4, 2003
    Inventor: Rolf Engelhard
  • Publication number: 20030159918
    Abstract: An electronic device generates an output airflow that maybe subjected to UV radiation from a germicidal lamp within the device. The airflow preferably is created electro-kinetically by coupling a high voltage across an electrode system that includes emitter and collector electrodes. The airflow is also accompanied by generation of ions and/or ozone. If desired, airflow maybe 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: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Publication date: August 28, 2003
    Inventor: Charles E. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6610257
    Abstract: An improved device for generating oxygen radicals (atoms) from air is provided for the purpose of cleaning the specimen and interior specimen chamber of Electron Microscopes, and similar high vacuum chambers. The device is an electrode that is able to generate a plasma at very low RF power without magnetic confinement to suppress production of Nitrogen ions and NO+ ions while producing oxygen radicals from air. The electrode is a cylindrical screen that produces multiple hollow cathodes with RF induction trapping of electrons and allows the flow of molecules, radicals, and ions by convection through it. The electrode device is used in a RF Plasma oxygen-radical generator placed on a specimen chamber port of an electron microscope with a RF excitation source to create a low-power plasma inside the generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Inventor: Ronald A. Vane
  • Publication number: 20030156978
    Abstract: The present invention features an ozone sanitation device and system and a method of using the same to sanitize various objects in various environments. The present invention is particularly adapted to be used to sanitize food products, such as fruit and vegetable products as well as others at the site of the marketing and selling of such products. The ozone sanitation device functions to combat harmful pathogens by reduce microbial growth and bacteria existing on the treated object. The device comprises an ozone generator that produces ozone gas that mixes with temperature controlled water to create an ozonated water solution to be applied to an object for treatment. Moreover, the present invention features several methods of using the ozone sanitation device to treat various objects, as well as a method for restoring water to dehydrated objects, such as fruits and vegetables.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Inventors: Thomas D. Gillette, James M. Gillette
  • Publication number: 20030152480
    Abstract: The present invention provides an article sanitation device preferably having a container in which articles to be sanitized can be received and a duct through which sanitizing fluid is moved into and/or out of the container. In some preferred embodiments, the sanitation device is part of a mailbox capable of de-contaminated mail placed therein. Preferably, ozone is employed as the sanitizing fluid, is created and neutralized by an ozone generator and an ozone neutralizer, and is moved with a fan through the various components of the article sanitation device. By employing a simple design, the cost of the sanitation device is relatively low. In addition, the use of ozone and an agitating article container in some embodiments helps to effectively and quickly sanitize all types, sizes, and numbers of articles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: John C.K. Sham
  • Patent number: 6605253
    Abstract: The presently disclosed disinfection process for use in the processing of foodstuffs is designed as an intervention step in poultry processing to allow for continuous on-line processing of poultry carcasses that may have accidentally become contaminated during the evisceration process. Such on-line processing is designed to replace the need for off-line manual washing and cleaning of the contaminated carcasses. By eliminating such off-line manual washing, food safety will be enhanced due to the elimination of the physical handling of carcasses and the cross-contamination that may result from such physical handling. An additional benefit is that the production process will also be able to run with a reduced number of interruptions, which will result in a more efficient production process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: Zentox Corporation
    Inventor: Michael Perkins
  • Patent number: 6605260
    Abstract: An apparatus for sterilizing a member includes a housing with an enclosure defined therein, a source of ultraviolet light for illuminating the member, and an ozone source. A pump is connected to the ozone source to force the ozone to flow within the enclosure, and a heating device heats the ozone flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Inventor: Tommy Busted
  • Publication number: 20030147787
    Abstract: An ozone generator system (1) in which a multitude of plate type ozone generators (2) are arranged adjacent to each other in a block (3). Each ozone generator comprises a chamber, adapted for converting oxygen to ozone by a corona discharge, and each chamber is provided with an inlet for oxygen or an oxygen-rich gas and an outlet for ozone. Said ozone generators are arranged in a block module (26) in which they are affixed by a block rack (4). Said block rack comprises an inlet port (5) adapted for introduction of oxygen gas, and an outlet port (6) adapted for discharge of ozone created through conversion within the generators comprised in the block module. A multitude of first conduits (7), each running between said inlet port and one chamber inlet, and a multitude of second conduits (8), each running between said outlet port and one chamber outlet, are provided within said block rack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2002
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventor: Jan Borgstrom
  • Publication number: 20030141181
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for generating ozone is provided. An ozone generator comprises a substantially transparent element having ozone-generating means mounted on an inner element area and an outer element area. An enclosure is positioned over the element, and an oxygen-containing gas is directed through the inner element area, creating ozone from a portion of the oxygen-containing gas. The ozone and oxygen-containing gas is then redirected over the outer element area, so that the oxygen-containing gas is at least twice exposed to the ozone-generating means, thereby generating additional ozone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventor: Teruo Matsuzaki
  • Publication number: 20030143108
    Abstract: This invention relates to a method and apparatus for using ozone to disinfect and decontaminate infectious microbial agents including mold in a building or container. This invention contemplates treating biological and viral agents with ozone containing gases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventor: Eric Wasinger
  • Patent number: 6599486
    Abstract: An ozone generator system in which a multitude of plate type ozone generators are arranged adjacent to each other in a block. Each ozone generator comprises a chamber, adapted for converting oxygen to ozone by a corona discharge, and each chamber is provided with an inlet for oxygen or an oxygen-rich gas and an outlet for ozone. The ozone generators are arranged in a block module in which they are affixed by a block rack. The block rack comprises an inlet port adapted for introduction of oxygen gas, and an outlet port adapted for discharge of ozone created through conversion within the generators comprised in the block module. A multitude of first conduits, each running between said inlet port and one chamber inlet, and a multitude of second conduits, each running between said outlet port and one chamber outlet, are provided within said block rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: Ozonator, Ltd.
    Inventor: Jan Borgström
  • Publication number: 20030133854
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system for supplying a gas capable of supplying a gas at a proper flow rate and forming a gas at a proper rate from a gas-forming unit. The invention provides a system for supplying a gas including a gas-forming unit, a gas supply passage for supplying a gas produced from the gas-forming unit, a gas flow rate controller provided in the gas supply passage, a gas discharge passage provided in parallel with the gas supply passage to discharge the gas produced from the gas-forming unit, and a pressure controller provided in the gas discharge passage to control the pressure of the gas flowing through the gas discharge passage. In the above system for supplying a gas, it is possible to optimize the flow rate of the gas that is supplied and the amount of the gas generated by the gas-forming unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoichiro Tabata, Akaru Usui
  • Publication number: 20030133832
    Abstract: Pathogens, toxins, and some chemical warfare agents inside an enclosure are destroyed using hydroxyl free radicals. The hydroxyl free radicals can be generated by, for example, reacting ozone with water in the presence of ultraviolet light or reacting hydrogen with nitrogen dioxide in the presence of ultraviolet light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2001
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventor: Luca D'Ottone
  • Publication number: 20030133859
    Abstract: An air sanitizing device for vehicles includes a casing attached to an air vent of the vehicle and having a passage defined therethrough. An ultraviolet LCD is located in the passage and powered by a power supply device connected to the casing. The power supply device can be powered by batteries, AC or DC electric current.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventors: Chug-Ming Chen, Chen-Chen Liu
  • Patent number: 6589397
    Abstract: An electric energy conversion/storage system includes an ozone generating means (12) for producing an ozonized gas from a raw material gas containing oxygen by utilizing electric energy, an ozone adsorbing/desorbing means (15) for adsorbing ozone contained in the ozonized gas and desorbing ozone from the adsorbed state, a gas circulation system for causing the raw material gas and the ozonized gas to flow through the ozone generating means (12) and the ozone absorbing/desorbing means (15) while feeding back to the ozone generating means (12) a residual part of the oxygen gas remaining after adsorption of ozone, a coolant supply means (16) for cooling the ozone adsorbing/desorbing means (15), and an ozone discharging means (29, 30) for taking out an ozone containing gas which contains ozone molecules from the ozone adsorbing/desorbing means (15) to thereby supply the ozone containing gas to an ozone consumer (23).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Tanimura, Masaki Kuzumoto, Junji Hirotsuji, Shigeki Nakayama, Osamu Matsuoka, Masao Nozaki
  • Patent number: 6589486
    Abstract: The apparatus and method of the present invention are suitable for use in the HVAC system of a building or dwelling such as a home or small commercial building. The apparatus and method cleans, purifies and deodorizes air in the building or dwelling. The air purifying apparatus comprises the following basic components: a UV germicidal lamp, an ozone generator, an air flow sensor, a control system, a status display system, a coupling system to connect the apparatus to an HVAC system, and a power system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Osceola Specialty Products
    Inventor: John B Spanton
  • Publication number: 20030121770
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for the use of ozone as a sterilant for many classes of surgical instruments which are at least partially metallic. Three features are the connection of a voltage carrying part of the instrument to be sterilized as the electrode of an ozone generating cell, which employs a glow discharge and maintaining the temperature of this electrode below 500° C., and that no solid dielectric exists between opposed electrodes in the ozone generating cell. Ozone is thereby localized about voltage carrying and any non-voltage carrying parts of the electrode connected instrument. The control of electrode heating helps to maintain the increasing atmospheric concentration of the ozone, which will however eventually reach a natural limit. Local heating of the electrode configuration is controlled where the instrument to be sterilized is connected at least periodically as the negative electrode. This helps to avoid the avalanche of the ozone generating glow discharge into an unproductive arc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Publication date: July 3, 2003
    Inventor: James F. McNulty
  • Patent number: 6585935
    Abstract: A footwear sanitizing device is insertable into footwear to be sanitized. The device includes a self-contained ion generator that subjects the footwear to an outflow of ionized air containing safe amounts of ozone. The ion generator includes a high voltage generator whose output pulses are coupled between first and second electrode arrays disposed in a pair of electrode assemblies. Preferably each first array comprises at least one metal pin spaced coaxially-apart from a metal ring-like structure. Alternatively, the first array may comprise at least one wire electrodes spaced staggeringly apart from a second array comprising hollow “U”-shaped electrodes. Preferably a ratio between effective area of an electrode in the second array compared to effective area of an electrode in the first array exceeds about 15:1 and preferably is about 20:1. An electric field produced by the high voltage between the arrays produces an electrostatic flow of ionized air containing safe amounts of ozone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Sharper Image Corporation
    Inventors: Charles E. Taylor, Shek Fai Lau
  • Publication number: 20030118473
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a delivery system and a treatment protocol designed to accurately and reliably deliver ozone to biological liquids or to other liquids containing reactive solutes or particles. To effect the accurate delivery of ozone to such liquids, ozone is delivered to the liquid via a gas permeable interface, under controlled conditions, while the liquid passes along the opposite side of the interface. In one variant, ozone is interfaced with the liquid via a specially configured ozone-permeable interface constructed of silicone and/or any of its polymers or congeners.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventors: Gerard V. Sunnen, James R. Robinson
  • Publication number: 20030113246
    Abstract: A deodorization apparatus comprises: a case body 2a formed therein with an air-flow passage 2i through which air flows; first and second lamp units 8, 10 disposed in an air-flow passage in the case body and adapted to generate ozone; first, second and third photo-catalyst filters 7, 9, 11 disposed in the air-flow passage in the case body and provided with photo-catalyst filters; and an impregnated carbon disposed on the downstream side of at least one of the first and second lamp units 8, 10 and the photo-catalyst filters and formed by impregnating an activated carbon adsorbing an odor component with at least one component of iron oxide, potassium hydroxide, nickel nitrate. According to this structure, the deodorization effect at the one passing of the contaminated air, in the air-flow passage, containing odor component is improved, the usable life time can be elongated, and the maintenance of the impregnated carbon, can be simplified.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2002
    Publication date: June 19, 2003
    Inventors: Akiko Saitou, Ryoutarou Matsuda, Ariyoshi Ishizaki, Kazunari Otsuka, Takanobu Oishi