With Ultraviolet Radiation Generating Means Patents (Class 422/186.3)
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Patent number: 8128883Abstract: A thermoelectric reformer unit-for dissociating fossil-based hydrocarbons, renewable hydrocarbons or hydrogen-containing inorganic compounds to produce hydrogen in a reactor using thermoelectric technology with thermoelectric materials to achieve very high conversion efficiencies. Thermoelectric reforming occurs in a reactor core containing a number of energy sources. These energy sources generate extremely high temperature heat that reacts with the fuels in its local surrounding areas. Since the heat is locally generated, it will not penetrate far within the reactor core that is surrounded by walls that act as a casing for the reformer. Synthetic gas produced in the reformer can be fed into internal combustion engines certain, types of fuel cells, or other energy conversion equipment without or with only limited levels of purification. Ancillary components are needed to produce high-purity hydrogen fuel for other types of fuel cells.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2009Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Inventor: Chi S. Wang
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Publication number: 20120051977Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for point of use location treatment of potable water supplies on demand on board passenger vehicles, such as aircraft. The systems described generally provide increased safety features, alternate ultraviolet light sources, and reduced power consumption.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2010Publication date: March 1, 2012Applicant: MAG Aerospace Industries, Inc.Inventors: Razmik B. Boodaghians, Jeff Lassegard
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Publication number: 20120051979Abstract: A cleaning apparatus for food processing equipment. The cleaning apparatus includes a base and a curved dome coupled to the base. The base has a first surface with a reflectance, and supports the food processing equipment. The dome is pivotable between an open position and a closed position relative to the base, and includes a second surface having a reflectance. The cleaning apparatus further includes an ultraviolet (“UV”)-based purification device that has at least one photohydroionization (“PHI”) cell operable to produce an advanced oxidation component. The UV-based purification device further has a plurality of UV light sources that are operable to produce UV light. The PHI cell and the UV light sources are coupled to at least one of the base and the dome to impinge directly and indirectly via reflection on the food processing equipment to clean the equipment when the dome is in the closed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2010Publication date: March 1, 2012Applicant: HUSSMANN CORPORATIONInventors: Sherri D. Clark, Michael J. Higgins, James L. Marsden
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Publication number: 20120051973Abstract: The present invention relates to applications of TiO2-containing, macro-sized nanostructures in the fields including photocatalysis, information writing-erasing-rewriting, microfiltration, controlled drug release, and tire making. In one aspect, the present invention relates to a method of photocatalytically decomposing organic pollutants. In one embodiment, the method includes the steps of mixing a solution containing organic pollutants and a plurality of TiO2-containing, macro-sized nanostructures to form a mixture and exposing the mixture to UV irradiation to decompose the organic pollutants.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 5, 2011Publication date: March 1, 2012Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENTInventor: Z. Ryan Tian
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Patent number: 8124012Abstract: An air purification system for a structure includes a first radiation source for generating UV-B and/or UV-C radiation and having an imaginary horizontal plane intersecting with the center of the first radiation source. The system further includes a first screen facing the first radiation source for preventing UV radiation generated by the first radiation source from radiating directly outward from the air purification system into a space below the imaginary horizontal plane. A second screen, facing the first radiation source as well as the first screen, is adjustable with respect to the first radiation source and is at least partially coated with a photo-catalytic material at a surface facing the first radiation source.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2008Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventors: Alain Louis Claude Leroux, Jacques Maria Jozef Geboers
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Patent number: 8105532Abstract: Ultraviolet light is an effective sterilization agent. Convenient mobile sterilization devices are described herein that, in certain embodiments, provide indications to a user of how much sterilizing light is required for a given sterilization goal and how much light has been applied to a surface towards that goal. Users can move the devices across a target surface as needed to sterilize or disinfect the surface, with the device tracking the dosage applied to the surface. One embodiment of a mobile device that comprises an ultraviolet C (UVC) light source, a distance detector, an indicator, and a microprocessor that receives data from the distance detector for calculating an intensity of the light from the source on a target surface and for calculating a dosage of the light on the surface to provide a signal to the indicator when a predetermined dosage is achieved.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2008Date of Patent: January 31, 2012Assignee: Verilux, Inc.Inventors: Nicholas Harmon, Ryan Douglas
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Publication number: 20120019917Abstract: Biopolymers that may be used in optical applications are provided. Suitable biopolymers include polylactic acid and polylactic acid blends. The polylactic acid may be used with a photocatalyst such as titonium dioxide in some embodiments. In other embodiments, the polylactic acid may incorporate decorative fused recycled particles. Generally, the biopolymer may be used in applications where optical characteristics and/or fire performance are desired.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 22, 2011Publication date: January 26, 2012Inventors: Michael J. Riebel, Milton Riebel, Ryan W. Riebel
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Patent number: 8101130Abstract: A gas ionizer includes a photocatalyst activated with an electric field to emit electrons. The photocatalyst is also illuminated with an ultraviolet light source. The ionized gas is passed through a chamber between the photocatalyst and the ultraviolet light source. The photocatalyst may be titanium oxide.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2007Date of Patent: January 24, 2012Assignee: Applied Nanotech Holdings, Inc.Inventor: Richard Lee Fink
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Publication number: 20120015305Abstract: An apparatus and method for catalyzing a reaction on a substrate (24) comprising, a light source (12), a micromirror (16) positioned to redirect light (14) from the light source (12) toward a substrate (24) wherein the redirected light (14) catalyzes a chemical reaction proximate a substrate (24), is disclosed. A computer (18) is connected to, and controls, the positioning of mirrors within the micromirror (16) to specifically redirect light to specific portions of a substrate. The substrate (24) can be placed in a reaction chamber (50), wherein the light (14) that is redirected by the micromirror (16) catalyzes a chemical reaction proximate a substrate (24).Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2011Publication date: January 19, 2012Inventor: Harold R. Garner
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Publication number: 20120014845Abstract: High surface energy materials with low refractive index and UV transparency wherein multilayers of similar or dissimilar materials are thermally fused together to form various functional optical requirements are provided. In some embodiments, a photocatalytic biopolymer structure comprising of a UV transparent biopolymer in integrating fused nanophotocatalytic minerals such as Tio2 used for various applications is provided. Many embodiments are based on the integration of nanophotocatalytic minerals fused to a biopolymer structure in which the biopolymer structure is UV transparent (UVT) and allows UV light to be transmitted through the biopolymer structure activating the nanophotocatalytic fused layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 14, 2011Publication date: January 19, 2012Inventor: Michael J. Riebel
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Patent number: 8097861Abstract: A system for sanitizing an enclosed structure comprises a first sensor, a second sensor, a third sensor, a germicidal ultraviolet light source, a motor, and a controller. The first sensor detects the presence of humans or animals within the enclosed structure. The second sensor detects the position of at least one door of the enclosed structure. The third sensor detects tampering with the system. The ultraviolet light source provides electromagnetic radiation in the ultraviolet range. The motor moves the ultraviolet light source from an inactive position to an active position and from the active position to the inactive position. The controller receives inputs from the first sensor, the second sensor, and the third sensor, and transmits outputs to the ultraviolet light source and the motor.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2010Date of Patent: January 17, 2012Assignee: Sound Health Designs, LLCInventor: David Leben
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Patent number: 8092751Abstract: The ultraviolet and/or ozone-generation disinfection cutlery tray allows to improve the hygiene of the different cutlery items placed in it, by use of at least one ultraviolet light and/or ozone-generating source that irradiates the cutlery through the material itself making up the cutlery tray, made of a light-conductive plastic material, obtaining an homogeneous radiation, allowing objects that had been previously washed in a conventional way to maintain and conserve asepsis until the moment of use. Versions are contemplated for holding cutlery in vertical position, simultaneously allowing their drainage after washing and hygienization; and others in which the emission of ultraviolet light is located on the surface of the material making up the cutlery tray. The disinfection device is suitable for use for the domestic sector, catering industry, as well as the clinical sector.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2009Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: Kaparazoom, S.L.U.Inventor: Francisco Salvador Barea
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Patent number: 8087737Abstract: An ergonomic radiology work station has front and back tables or work platforms that can be raised or lowered electrically to adjust for optimum posture and comfort of the user. Video monitors on the rear platform displays medical images. Interface equipment, e.g., keyboard and mouse, are situated on the front work platform. A pull-out sanitizer hood irradiates the keyboard and other interface devices with ultraviolet radiation after a radiology work session. An interlock arrangement ensures that the work platforms cannot be moved up or down when the hood is pulled out, and ensures that UV lamps in the hood are disabled when the hood is pushed back in to its home or withdrawn position. The hood with slide(s) and interlock(s) may be provided as a kit to retrofit an existing work station.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2009Date of Patent: January 3, 2012Assignee: S&S X-Ray Products, IncInventor: Norman A. Shoenfeld
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Publication number: 20110318237Abstract: Ultraviolet reactors having an ultraviolet light source for treating a fluid are disclosed. In one embodiment, a reactor is disclosed which includes a vessel having an inlet for receiving fluid and an outlet for discharging fluid. The vessel further includes a plurality of segmented baffles. The baffles further include a partial circumferential edge section that terminates in a vertical edge section to form right and left segmented baffles. The left and right segmented baffles are arranged in an alternating pattern in the vessel to provide plug flow and enhanced radial mixing.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2010Publication date: December 29, 2011Inventors: Richard Woodling, Jing Feng, Davis Yohanes Arifin, Kok Wee Henry Lim
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Patent number: 8083934Abstract: A water disinfection apparatus includes a chamber adapted for connection to a pressurized water source. An ultra violet light is oriented to shine ultra violet rays into the chamber and to disinfect water therein, and a normally closed output valve connects the chamber to a supply valve. A control senses when a connected supply valve has been opened, and is operative to turn the ultra violet light on when the connected supply valve is opened; open the output valve after the ultra violet light has been turned on; close the output valve off after a supply time period expires; and turn the ultra violet light off when the output valve has been closed. The ultra violet light is turned on at all times that the output valve is open.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2008Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Inventor: Udo Staschik
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Patent number: 8080214Abstract: An air cleaner X1 includes a cleaning chamber (R2) through which air can pass, an ultraviolet light source (12) provided in the cleaning chamber (R2), a flow generator (11) for generating an air flow in the cleaning chamber (R2) by passing air through the cleaning chamber (R2), and photocatalyst granules (13) having a photocatalytic function, held in the cleaning chamber (R2), and displaceable by the air flow.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2005Date of Patent: December 20, 2011Assignee: Fujitsu LimitedInventor: Masato Wakamura
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Patent number: 8080213Abstract: One embodiment of an improved ozone generator is comprehensively disclosed by descriptions of computer generated drawings depicting the first commercial version of the invention, which combines the following features: an extruded base with longitudinal channels for receiving connections at distributed points; an extruded cover for detachably engaging the base at each opposing sides and covering a substantial portion of said base; a central baffle that is integral with the cover fro dividing the enclosed volume into a reaction chamber and a circuitry chamber; one or more ultraviolet light sources mounted to connection points on a channel within the reaction chamber; electronic circuitry mounted to connection points on a channel within the circuitry chamber for controlling and transforming an input voltage to drive the light sources; sliding end caps secured to channels in the base for separately covering apertures formed by the ends of the cover and base and for detachably connecting the cover to the base; andType: GrantFiled: July 21, 2008Date of Patent: December 20, 2011Inventor: S. Jepson Sutton
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Publication number: 20110305603Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention combine a suitable photocatalyst with a non-conducting matrix such as plastic or rubber for the purpose of the production of hydrogen peroxide in the presence of light of a suitable frequency or frequencies and oxygenated, acidic water. A suitable photocatalyst such as Anatase titanium dioxide is combined at low temperature (>˜700 F) with a plastic such as polypropylene as one would a pigment. The impregnated plastic can be immersed in water to about an inch whereupon the excess hydrogen ion in the water combines with dissolved oxygen to produce hydrogen peroxide upon irradiation. Hydrogen peroxide is a excellent oxidizer and disinfectant and purifier and goes on to kill bacteria, algae, etc. in the water, as well as to precipitate hardness. Unused hydrogen peroxide breaks down into hydrogen ion and free oxygen in a short time.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2010Publication date: December 15, 2011Applicant: SIGMA PRIME SOLAR LLCInventor: Timothy J. Flick
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Patent number: 8075844Abstract: An ozone generator for generating ozone by applying a specified process to oxygen by discharge includes a first raw material gas supply unit for supplying the oxygen as a first raw material gas, and a second raw material gas supply unit for supplying an oxide compound gas as a second raw material gas, in which, by excited light, excited and generated by a discharge in the oxygen and the oxide compound gas, the oxide compound gas is dissociated, or the oxide compound gas is excited accelerating dissociation of the oxygen, and ozone is generated. In this way, ozone generation efficiency is raised.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2008Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Assignee: Toshiba Mitsubishi-Electric Industrial Systems CorporationInventor: Youichiro Tabata
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Patent number: 8058629Abstract: A writing utensil sterilization apparatus includes a housing comprising an inlet for receiving a writing utensil and an outlet for dispensing the writing utensil, a UV light source disposed within the housing for emitting UV light, and a path disposed within the housing for guiding the writing utensil from the inlet to the outlet while exposing the writing utensil to the UV light.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2009Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Inventor: Catherine L. Long
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Patent number: 8048316Abstract: A method for subjecting a microorganism to a combination of ozone and irradiation of UV light which has a synergistic effect on the reduction of the microorganism that may be resistant to either ozone or UV light alone. In particular, Adenovirus and Naegleria fowleri, are significantly more reduced when subjected simultaneously to the combination of ozone and UV light than when subjected only to ozone or UV light, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2007Date of Patent: November 1, 2011Assignee: Zuvo Water, LLCInventor: Raymond P. Denkewicz, Jr.
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Patent number: 8048391Abstract: The present invention relates to a gas purifier containing a filtering media having a photocatalytic action, a system for illuminating said media with UV radiation, a time-delay means or a volatile organic compound analyzer, and a means for automatically adjusting the speed of the gas passing through the media or for adjusting the intensity of the UV illumination, said adjusting being carried out as a function of the time determined by the time-delay means or as a function of the content of a volatile organic compound analyzed by the analyzer.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2008Date of Patent: November 1, 2011Assignee: Saint-Gobain Quartz S.A.SInventor: Laurent Molins
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Publication number: 20110263033Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to devices and methods for performing photoreactions of photo-reacting compounds in solution. The invention features a vessel and a light source. The vessel has at least one wall defining a chamber. The chamber, for performing photoreactions, has a chamber volume, a first window, an inlet and an outlet. The inlet and outlet are in fluid communication with a source of photo-reacting compounds in solution. The first window is transparent to light transmission and is placed in optical communication with a light source to receive photons. The chamber is for receiving a solution over time to define a dwell time. The solution potentially has one or more photo-reactive compounds having a concentration. The device further comprises a light source, in optical communication with the first window, for emitting photons which photons are received by the first window and transmitted into the chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 2009Publication date: October 27, 2011Applicant: WATERS TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATIONInventors: Mark Basile, Anthony Jeannotte
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Patent number: 8038777Abstract: An air sterilization device with low aerosol bounce includes an air conditioning pipe, a porous filter media, and a UV light generator. This porous filter media, it is secured on the fixing portion. This porous filter media has many irregularly distributed channels. The channel is coated with a coating layer having a thickness between 10 ?m to 1000 ?m sticking aerosols for avoiding bounce effect. The UV light generator can emit UV light to kill biological aerosols. It is suitable for long-term usage. So, the bounce effect of aerosols can be significantly reduced. The maintenance cost is low. The sterilization effect is excellent. Plus, the flow rate of the air conditioning system remains high.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2008Date of Patent: October 18, 2011Assignee: Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, Council of Labor Affairs, Executive YuanInventors: Chane-Yu Lai, Po-Chen Hung, Sheng-Hsiu Huang, Yu-Fang Ho, Cheng-Ping Chang, Tung-Sheng Shih, Tai-Shan Yu, Chi-yu Chuang
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Patent number: 8038778Abstract: An apparatus (10) for purifying polluted air consisting of particle phase pollutants and gaseous phase pollutants, the apparatus (10) comprising: a dust level sensor (23) to measure the amount of particle phase pollutants in the polluted air; a dust removal component (14) to remove the particle phase pollutants from the polluted air; a catalyst filtering core (17) to decompose the gaseous phase pollutants by chemical reaction; a valve (22) for selectively controlling a path of air flow within the apparatus (10) and is movable between an open position and closed position, the valve (22) being positioned downstream from the dust removal component (14); wherein if the amount of particle phase pollutants measured by the dust level sensor (23) is above a predetermined value, the valve (22) is moved to the open position to enable the air to bypass the catalyst filtering core (17); and if the amount of particle phase pollutants measured by the dust level sensor (23) is less than a predetermined value, the valve (22)Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2009Date of Patent: October 18, 2011Assignee: Akos Advanced Technology Ltd.Inventors: Yiu Wai Chan, Sui Chun Law
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Publication number: 20110250125Abstract: A device, system, and method, for the formation of advanced oxidation products by contacting a hydrated catalytic surface of a catalytic target structure with broad spectrum ultraviolet light in the 100 nm to 300 nm range that preferably includes 185 nm and 254 nm wavelengths. The catalytic surface reacts with the ultraviolet light energy and hydrate at the catalytic surface to form advanced oxidation products, The catalytic surface in one embodiment includes a hydrophilic agent, titanium dioxide, silver, copper, and rhodium. Preferably, the catalytic surface is coated with a coating that includes the hydrophilic; agent, titanium dioxide, silver, copper, and rhodium. A photohydroionization cell (100) that includes an ultraviolet light source (204) and a catalytic target structure (110) in an air environment to form advanced oxidation product is also provided. A U.V. light indicator and a monitor and/or control system for the photohydroionization cell (100) are also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 17, 2011Publication date: October 13, 2011Applicant: RGF Environmental Group, Inc.Inventors: Ronald G. FINK, Walter B. Ellis
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Publication number: 20110250099Abstract: An ultraviolet treatment chamber for treating exhaust streams, particularly those containing organic particulates, utilizes ultraviolet light energy very efficiently. This is done by setting up a circulating flow in a treatment plenum so that all of the effluent experiences a substantially uniform residence time without the need for baffles or other flow controllers that would block the ultraviolet light.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2011Publication date: October 13, 2011Applicant: Oy Halton Group Ltd.Inventors: Rick A. Bagwell, Darrin W. Beardslee, Derek W. Schrock, Andrey V. Livchak
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Publication number: 20110240566Abstract: A photo-catalyzing fluid mobilizing system and method are disclosed. A chamber has a power source. A fluid mobilizer is mounted in the chamber and connected with the power source to mobilize a fluid through the chamber. The fluid mobilizer includes one or more fan blades that are coated with a photo catalyst. A UV light source is mounted in the chamber proximate the fluid mobilizer and connected with the power source to catalyze the photo catalyst coating the blades to purifier the fluid being mobilized thereover.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2011Publication date: October 6, 2011Applicant: Life Spring Limited PartnershipInventor: ROLF ENGELHARD
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Publication number: 20110237842Abstract: An ultraviolet (UV) reactor for carrying out chemical reactions in a pumpable medium by means of UV. The pumpable medium may also be, where appropriate, a multi-phase medium. The UV reactor has a reactor chamber through which the medium can flow In a direction of flow from an inlet to an outlet. The reactor chamber is penetrated by a number of UV transparent jacket tubes, which are arranged one behind the other in the direction of flow. UV emitters are arranged within the jacket tubes for emitting UV radiation into the reactor chamber. The jacket tubes are arranged one behind the other and are interlocked against one another at an angle ?in the circumferential direction of the reactor chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2009Publication date: September 29, 2011Applicant: ITT MANUFACTURING ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventors: Ernst Martin Billing, Friedhelm Krüger
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Publication number: 20110233142Abstract: A water purification system and method for removing inorganic, organic and biological species from water. The system and method involve simultaneous treatment of water using mild heat, a photoactive catalyst such as titanium dioxide and UV irradiation.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2009Publication date: September 29, 2011Inventors: Lorne D. Grossman, Hersh I Forman, Andrew Lewis Maxwell, William Alexander Anderson
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Publication number: 20110223091Abstract: A spinning fluids reactor, includes a reactor body (24) having a circular cross-section and a fluid contactor screen (26) within the reactor body (24). The fluid contactor screen (26) having a plurality of apertures and a circular cross-section concentric with the reactor body (24) for a length thus forming an inner volume (28) bound by the fluid contactor screen (26) and an outer volume (30) bound by the reactor body (24) and the fluid contactor screen (26). A primary inlet (20) can be operatively connected to the reactor body (24) and can be configured to produce flow-through first spinning flow of a first fluid within the inner volume (28). A secondary inlet (22) can similarly be operatively connected to the reactor body (24) and can be configured to produce a second flow of a second fluid within the outer volume (30) which is optionally spinning.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2009Publication date: September 15, 2011Inventors: Jan D. Miller, Jan Hupka, Robert Aranowski
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Publication number: 20110217211Abstract: A smell-diffusing cell array substrate, an apparatus configured to transfer smell information and an electronic device are provided, the smell-diffusing cell array substrate includes at least one smell-diffusing cell having a microcapsule with a core-shell structure. A shell of the microcapsule includes a wall material and a photocatalyst dispersed in the wall material. A core of the microcapsule includes a smell-diffusion material and a hydrophilic liquid.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2010Publication date: September 8, 2011Inventors: Jong-jin Park, Seung-nam Cha, Jae-hyun Hur, Jong-min Kim
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Patent number: 8012242Abstract: A method of removing pollutants from building materials using an externally applied adsorbent. The adsorbent has a high affinity to common pollutant chemicals. The pollutants are transferred from the contaminated microporous building materials onto the adsorbent until sufficient amounts of pollutant chemicals are reduced to make the building materials acceptable and safe to use. The adsorbent may be regenerated and reused or treated as a waste.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2007Date of Patent: September 6, 2011Assignee: The University of North DakotaInventors: Evguenii I. Kozliak, Wayne S. Seames
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Patent number: 8012412Abstract: Described is an air and surface purifying device having a purifying cell structured for maximizing the realized photocatalytic reaction at a photocatalytic surface without using an additional ultraviolet bulb. The purifying cell positions at least three photocatalytic surfaces about a single ultraviolet bulb such that the photocatalytic surfaces substantially encompass the ultraviolet bulb and are saturated by ultraviolet light radiating from the ultraviolet bulb. Because the photocatalytic surfaces are saturated, the potential photocatalytic reaction at the photocatalytic surfaces is fully realized. Stated differently, the realized photocatalytic reaction is maximized. Because the purifying cell maximizes the realized photocatalytic reaction, the purifying cell maximizes the purifying capacity of the photocatalytic surface and, thus, the purifying cell itself.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2007Date of Patent: September 6, 2011Assignee: Vollara, LLCInventors: James Normark, Neal Morris, Allen Johnston
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Publication number: 20110206554Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for determining an effective dose of monochromatic or polychromatic light from one or more light sources to inactivate microorganisms present in a biological fluid, preferably a non-transparent fluid. Moreover, there is provided a method for the inactivation of microorganism in a biological fluid in a flow-through-reactor. Moreover, the invention advantageously provides a flow-through-reactor with one or more thermostated light sources. The invention further provides a method of controlling the light sum dose of monochromatic or polychromatic light emitted from one or more light sources to effectively inactivate microorganisms present in a biological fluid in a batch reactor.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 4, 2011Publication date: August 25, 2011Applicants: Baxter International Inc., Baxter Healthcare S.A.Inventors: Heinz Anderle, Peter Matthiessen, Hans-Peter Schwarz, Peter Turecek, Thomas Kreil, Daniel R. Boggs
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Patent number: 8003058Abstract: An air purification reactor is described that has a variety of improvements. In one aspect, the air purification reactor includes an ionizer (or plasma chamber), an electrostatic filter, a photocatalyst, and a UV light source that is distinct from the ionizer. The ionizer is arranged to introduce ions into a gaseous fluid stream passing through the air purification device. The electrostatic filter is located downstream of the ionizer and is arranged to electrostatically filter particles from the fluid stream. The UV light source is positioned to subject the photocatalyst to ultraviolet light and may be arranged upstream, downstream, or intermediate the electrostatic filter. With this arrangement, the ultraviolet light that impinges on the photocatalyst causes a photocatalytic oxidative reaction to occur at the photocatalyst that is capable of reducing volatile organic compounds carried in the fluid stream. In other (separate) aspects, the reactor includes an absorber or an oxidation catalyst.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2007Date of Patent: August 23, 2011Assignee: Airinspace B.V.Inventors: Vance Bergeron, Laurent Adrien Fullana
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Publication number: 20110195519Abstract: A photochemical vapour generator is disclosed having a reaction chamber with a liquid sample inlet, a carrier gas inlet and a carrier gas outlet. A liquid sample support surface for supporting a film of a liquid sample is in the reaction chamber. A source of ultraviolet radiation is positioned in radiative contact with the liquid sample support surface. Also described is a process for detecting and/or quantifying an analyte by providing a liquid film of a sample containing an organic acid or a salt thereof and a precursor compound of the analyte, exposing the liquid film to ultraviolet radiation to generate a volatile species of the analyte, separating the volatile species from the liquid film to form a vapour containing the volatile species, and directing the vapour to a detector to detect and/or quantify the analyte in the vapour.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 20, 2011Publication date: August 11, 2011Inventors: Ralph Sturgeon, Chengbin Zheng
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Patent number: 7989779Abstract: A universal ultraviolet light sanitation device that can be mounted to existing doors and the like wherein the UV light sources are positioned for treatment of a door knob or handle. The device provides for opposing UV lights in a light emitting housing around the doorknob. Sensor means within the assembly determines the non-presence of the user's hand and activates the UV lights before and after handle contact assuring sanitation of the light exposed non-porous surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2009Date of Patent: August 2, 2011Inventors: David A. Ray, Martin M. Abitzsch
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Patent number: 7988923Abstract: A device, system, and method, for the formation of advanced oxidation products by contacting a hydrated catalytic surface of a catalytic target structure with broad spectrum ultraviolet light in the 100 nm to 300 nm range that preferably includes 185 nm and 254 nm wavelengths. The catalytic surface reacts with the ultraviolet light energy and hydrate at the catalytic surface to form advanced oxidation products. The catalytic surface in one embodiment includes a hydrophilic agent, titanium dioxide, silver, copper, and rhodium. Preferably, the catalytic surface is coated with a coating that includes the hydrophilic agent, titanium dioxide, silver, copper, and rhodium. A photohydroionization cell (100) that includes an ultraviolet light source (204) and a catalytic target structure (110) in an air environment to form advanced oxidation product is also provided. A U.V. light indicator and a monitor and/or control system for the photohydroionization cell (100) are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2004Date of Patent: August 2, 2011Assignee: RGF Environmental Group, Inc.Inventors: Ronald G. Fink, Walter B. Ellis
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Publication number: 20110180385Abstract: According to one embodiment, a method for controlling a chemical process comprises receiving a catalytic materials composition. The catalytic materials composition comprise at least one catalyst material and at least one reactant material. Nanostructure material is added to the catalytic materials composition. The nanostructure material comprises at least one nanoscale-sized space therein. The nanostructure material is irradiated with electromagnetic radiation such that the nanostructure material facilitates energy transfer between the nanostructure material and the catalytic materials composition.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 28, 2010Publication date: July 28, 2011Applicant: Raytheon CompanyInventor: Timothy J. Imholt
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Publication number: 20110182772Abstract: A method and device degrade microbes. In one embodiment, the device includes a purification device for producing hydrogen peroxide gas from air. The air comprises water vapor and oxygen. The purification device includes a body comprising an interior, an air inlet, and a gas outlet. The purification device also includes a catalyst. The catalyst is disposed within the interior. The catalyst comprises titanium dioxide. In addition, the purification device includes a light disposed to emit electromagnetic radiation into the catalyst. Moreover, the purification device includes a fan. The fan is disposed to blow air in a direction. The catalyst is disposed at an angle in relation to the direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 26, 2010Publication date: July 28, 2011Inventor: Alton R. Holt
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Publication number: 20110171080Abstract: A UV photocatalytic air purifier/sterilizer in which the multiple limited-lifetime components (such as the UV light, UV light electronics, and catalytic portion) of a photocatalytic UV air purifier/sterilizer are packaged together to form a single, handheld, unitized package, designed for easy insertion and removal into an air purifier. The invention may be configured enable maximum air flow through the photocatalytic portions of the device, thus further improving air cleaning efficiency by allowing many volumes of room air to be recirculated through the device and cleaned/purified/sterilized over the course of a day. In a preferred embodiment, the device may package a series of stacked TiO2 coated parallel metal catalytic plates, a UV germicidal lamp with a fluorescent tube form factor, and a UV lamp ballast into a single disposable or recyclable unit. This disposable unit can be easily clipped into a motorized air purifier unit designed for rapid servicing.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 12, 2010Publication date: July 14, 2011Applicant: AIRGLE CORPORATIONInventor: Yang Zhen Lo
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Patent number: 7976777Abstract: A method, a sensor device (204), and a package storage system (200), are used to monitor the inside of a storage volume in a package container (202) containing at least one product and/or object (201). The sensor device is inside of the storage volume in the package container (202) and senses the presence of at least one of a sanitizing agent comprising ozone (316) and ultraviolet radiation energy inside of the storage volume. The sensor device (204) wirelessly transmits the sensed information from inside the at least one storage volume to a wireless receiver (222) outside of the storage volume to provide the sensed information to a processor (220) that monitors the presence of the at least one of the sanitizing agent comprising ozone (316) and ultraviolet radiation energy inside of the storage volume in the package container (202). The sensor device (204) can communicate using an RF ID device communication protocol.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2005Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Inventor: Jose Gutman
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Publication number: 20110163044Abstract: A ceramic structure for water treatment, a water treatment apparatus and method are provided. Immersion efficiency of a photo catalyst and a specific surface area of the immersed photo catalyst can be improved using a ceramic medium including a ceramic paper prepared of a ceramic fiber. Accordingly, it is possible to provide the water treatment apparatus and method capable of increasing decomposition efficiency of contaminated materials due to irradiation of ultraviolet light, and so on, enabling continuous purification treatment, and remarkably reducing preparation, management and water treatment expenses.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 23, 2010Publication date: July 7, 2011Applicant: LG HAUSYS, LTD.Inventors: Moonsuk HAN, Ju-Hyung Lee, Seongmoon Jung
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Patent number: 7972564Abstract: The present invention provides a combined labyrinthine fluid sterilizing apparatus, comprising a chamber having an inlet and an outlet as well as a blower/fan provided in the chamber. Ultraviolet lamps are mounted in the lumen of the chamber. The lumen of the chamber is divided by a plurality of bafflers having pores. The pores in the adjacent bafflers are arranged to stagger up and down or from side to side. A mesh plate is provided at the pore. The top and bottom plates of the chamber can be flipped open. The baffler is inserted in the slots in the inner side of the front and back plates. The top and bottom plates have the pore and a cover plate which are both covered by a shield. At least one of the bafflers has a pore, and is provided with a one-way openable valve. The blower is mounted at the pore of the baffler. The chamber and the bafflers are coated with a layer of titanium dioxide.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2006Date of Patent: July 5, 2011Assignee: Solar City LimitedInventor: Hak-Man Chan
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Publication number: 20110150720Abstract: The present invention relates to an air filtration system and a method for making a photocatalytic oxidation substrate by powder coating a photocatalyst onto a metal substrate.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2010Publication date: June 23, 2011Applicant: Garfield Industries, Inc.Inventors: Kirk Garfield, John Potter
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Publication number: 20110150707Abstract: According to one embodiment, an ultraviolet irradiation system that sterilizes, disinfects, and inactivates raw water such as city water or underground water, includes a plurality of ultraviolet irradiation devices connected in series, and a controller configured to control output and non-output of the ultraviolet irradiation devices. The ultraviolet irradiation device includes a water processing vessel through which the raw water flows, an ultraviolet lamp configured to irradiate the raw water in the water processing vessel with ultraviolet rays, and an ultraviolet sensor configured to measure an amount of ultraviolet rays emitted from the ultraviolet lamp.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 15, 2010Publication date: June 23, 2011Inventors: Shinji Kobayashi, Norimitsu Abe, Takahiro Soma, Akihiko Shirota
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Publication number: 20110150708Abstract: According to one embodiment, an ultraviolet irradiation device that sterilizes, disinfects, and inactivates raw water such as city water or underground water, includes a water processing vessel, an ultraviolet sensor, and a controller. The water processing vessel includes a water supply port into which the raw water flows, at least a pair of ultraviolet lamps configured to irradiate the raw water that flows into the water processing vessel with ultraviolet rays, and a water discharge port from which the raw water irradiated with the ultraviolet rays is discharged. The ultraviolet sensor is configured to measure an amount of ultraviolet rays irradiated from the ultraviolet lamps. The controller is configured to control turnon and turnoff of the ultraviolet lamps.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 15, 2010Publication date: June 23, 2011Inventors: Shinji KOBAYASHI, Norimitsu Abe, Takahiro Soma, Akihiko Shirota
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Patent number: 7964104Abstract: A method which comprises using a treatment apparatus comprising (1) a treatment tank, (2) a vibrating stirrer disposed inside the treatment tank, (3) a photocatalyst layer or a layer comprising a photocatalyst and a bactericidal metal, disposed on any surface inside the treatment tank, and (4) a light irradiator; placing water or a water-containing fluid to be treated in the treatment tank; carrying out the steps of (i) transmitting vibration between 10 and 200 Hz to a vibration vane by a vibration generator to causing the vibration vane to vibrate at an amplitude of 0.01 to 15 mm, and (ii) irradiating the photocatalyst or the layer comprising a photocatalyst and a bactericidal metal with light.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2004Date of Patent: June 21, 2011Assignee: Japan Techno Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ryushin Omasa
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Publication number: 20110142725Abstract: A photocatalytic air purification apparatus and method of fabricating the same. The apparatus may be configured to include a light source surrounded by one or more porous plate substrates. An inner and outer surface of each plate substrate may be coated with a photocatalyst material. The light source may be placed in a direction parallel to the direction of an air flow and in optical proximity to the plate substrates in order to activate the photocatalyst coating. The photocatalyst coating associated with the plate substrates may be activated by absorbing light with a wavelength shorter than a cut-off activation wavelength from the light source in order to capture and decompose organic components and airborne pollutants in the air by the activated photocatalyst.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2009Publication date: June 16, 2011Inventors: Xuanbin Liu, Li Wang