Condensate Retainer Patents (Class 62/291)
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Publication number: 20080000253Abstract: An air conditioner is provided. The air conditioner includes a front frame, a rear frame, a main drain pan, and a base pan. The front frame provides a front portion, and the rear frame provides a rear portion. The main drain pan divides a space between the rear frame and the front frame, and the base pan provides a bottom portion. The front frame is coupled to the rear frame, the base pan, and the main drain pan.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2007Publication date: January 3, 2008Inventors: Moon Shin Kim, Jong Ho Lee
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Publication number: 20080000252Abstract: An air conditioner is provided. The air conditioner includes a main and sub drain pan, a first and second heat exchanger, a condensed water pipe, and a pipe coupling element. The main drain pan is provided between a front frame and a rear frame, to divide a space between the rear frame and the front frame into an upper and lower section. The first and second heat exchangers are respectively provided at a lower and upper portion of the main drain pan, to allow heat exchange to occur between air and coolant. The sub-drain pan is provided at the lower portion of the main drain pan, to collect condensed water generated by the first and second heat exchangers. The condensed water pipe guides condensed water collected in a base pan to the sub-drain pan. The pipe coupling element detachably couples one end of the condensed water pipe to the sub-drain pan.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2007Publication date: January 3, 2008Inventors: Jong Ho Lee, Moon Shin Kim
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Publication number: 20080000251Abstract: There is provided an air conditioner. The air conditioner includes a main drain pan dividing an inner space of the air conditioner into upper and lower halves, a base pan defining a lower outer appearance of the air conditioner, an indoor blower unit that is installed on an upper portion of the main drain pan to guide introduction and discharge of indoor air, and a control box in which a plurality of electronic components controlling the operation of the air conditioner are installed. The control box is installed vertically across the main drain pan.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2007Publication date: January 3, 2008Inventors: Jong Ho Lee, Moon Shin Kim
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Patent number: 7305838Abstract: Cooling air provided to a compressor air inlet such that water vapor in the inlet air condenses to lower a moisture content of the air provided to the compressor.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2005Date of Patent: December 11, 2007Assignee: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLCInventor: William P. Fornof
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Patent number: 7284388Abstract: An air conditioner has an air conditioning case, a heat exchanger disposed in the air conditioning case to cool air therein, a drain pan disposed at a lower side of the heat exchanger to receive condensed water and the like, and a partition wall which is disposed between a lower surface of the heat exchanger and the drain pan to separate an air upstream side from an air downstream side in the air conditioning case. The drain pan has a drain hole, through which condensed water is discharged. An end portion of the partition wall intersects the drain hole and partitions the drain hole into the air upstream side and the air downstream side.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2005Date of Patent: October 23, 2007Assignee: DENSO CorporationInventor: Shinichi Yoshida
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Patent number: 7269967Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing excess moisture from the evaporator coils of an air-conditioning system in which the moisture is removed from the evaporator coils by vibrating the coils. The coils may be vibrated by mechanical or acoustic devices such as solenoid plungers and acoustic transducers.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2005Date of Patent: September 18, 2007Assignee: Gas Technology InstituteInventor: James T. Cole
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Patent number: 7251945Abstract: A water production unit is provided that uses a desiccant wheel for extracting water from an air loop. A portion of the air loop is heated using exhaust from, for example, a vehicle to regenerate the desiccant wheel.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2005Date of Patent: August 7, 2007Assignee: Hamilton Sandstrand CorporationInventor: Stephen Tongue
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Patent number: 7191606Abstract: A Drain Trap Alarm for Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning condensate drain system includes a upstream port coupled to the cooling coil drain tray followed with a U-type trap and a downstream port coupled to the external atmosphere. The invention is provided with a liquid level sensor and continuously monitors the liquid level of drain trap. The signal from the liquid level sensor in communication with the microprocessor will notify operating personnel that the condensate drain is malfunctioning and activate the automatic prime valve to restore the dry drain trap condition to normal operation. The microprocessor provides operational test enabling the HVAC operating personnel to quickly test Drain Trap Alarm.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2005Date of Patent: March 20, 2007Inventor: Kenneth W. Dwyer
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Patent number: 7174739Abstract: The invention provides an improved drain valve for dew condensation in an air chiller unit mounted on an aircraft. The drain valve 160 attached to a drain of a drain pan in an air chiller unit is equipped with a valve seat member 162 having an opening 162a at the center and a valve member 164 disposed to contact the lower surface of the valve seat member 162. The valve member 164 is made of thin silicon rubber, and arms 164b created by slits formed thereto support a valve means 164e with extremely small spring constant. While the air chiller unit is operating, the valve means 164e is air tightly attached to the opening 162a of the valve seat by negative pressure, closing the drain valve. When the operation stops and dew drops gather on the valve means 164e, the valve means 164e is displaced by the weight and the valve is opened. When there are no dew drops, the valve is closed to prevent moisture from entering.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Jamco CorporationInventor: Masaji Ozaki
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Patent number: 7100675Abstract: In an air conditioner (1) constructed to pass an air introduced into an air conditioning unit (4) through an evaporator (33) and a heater core (34) both arranged in the unit (4), cooler pipes (90) for the evaporator (33) and heater pipes (91) for the heater core (34) are arranged to extend from the same side wall of the air conditioning unit (4).Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2002Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Assignee: Japan Climate Systems CorporationInventors: Takehiro Yamamoto, Tadashi Okamoto, Hideaki Yasuda, Hiroshi Mayumi, Morihito Tsukuda, Kenichiro Higashi, Keiji Koga, Yoshinori Aono
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Patent number: 7007496Abstract: An internal temperature difference preventing structure for a refrigerator, including an evaporator installed in an upper portion of a refrigerating space inside a main body of the refrigerator, an air blast fan installed in front of the evaporator for blowing air toward a rear part of the evaporator, a discharge duct, including a discharge port downwardly extended from the rear part thereof, for guiding cool air, generated by the evaporator and the air blast fan, from a front part of the upper portion inside the main body to a rear part of the upper portion inside the main body, and a discharge guide portion for guiding the cool air, guided by the discharge duct to the rear part of the upper portion inside the main body, to the discharge port.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2004Date of Patent: March 7, 2006Assignee: Lotte Engineering & Machinery Mfg., Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tae-Hean Kim, Young-Man La, Kyung-Won Cho
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Patent number: 7003972Abstract: Disclosed is an indoor unit for an air conditioner to smoothly drain condensed water to the outside regardless of an installation state of the indoor unit. The indoor unit includes: a heat exchanger for performing heat exchange; a drain pan for collecting and draining condensed water generated in the heat exchanger; and two or more drain parts formed in the drain pan and through which the condensed water is drained.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2004Date of Patent: February 28, 2006Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Nam Seob Eom, Dae Hyoun No, Sung Woo Song
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Patent number: 6997008Abstract: A refrigerator having a draining unit to drain defrost water, produced by both an evaporator and a refrigerant pipe, to an outside of a cabinet thereof. The refrigerator having a storage compartment defined in the cabinet, with an evaporator provided in the cabinet to supply cool air to the storage compartment. A first defrost water tray having a first drain port is positioned under the evaporator to drain the defrost water produced by the evaporator. A second defrost water tray is positioned under both the refrigerant pipe extending to the evaporator and the first drain port of the first defrost water tray, so as to guide a draining of the defrost water produced by the refrigerant pipe and the defrost water drained from the first drain port of the first defrost water tray. The second defrost water tray having a second drain port which is connected to a drain guide hose.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jong-Dal Lee, Gi-Joong Jeong
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Patent number: 6993928Abstract: Device for conditioning water produced by environmental conditioning or dehumidification apparatuses or plants, comprising a device (2) for measuring the quantity of water produced by a condenser (1) which transforms atmospheric humidity into water, a feeder (4) of a corrective composition of salts and mineral substances, preferably in the form of tablets (P), for dispensing at least one of them in proportion to the quantity of water measured, a mixing vessel (5) receiving the measured water and at least a tablet (P) provided by the feeder (4), a control and command unit (6) that activates the feeder (4) in proportion to the quantity of water measured and received, and a tank (7) for collecting and filtering the water provided with means (70) for filtering micro-organisms and bacteria and a valve (81) for the exit of potable water.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2002Date of Patent: February 7, 2006Inventor: Osman Akkad
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Patent number: 6983619Abstract: A module is provided for attachment to the roof of a bus and includes all of the necessary components for conditioning the return air from the passenger compartment and delivering conditioned air thereto. Each module may include an evaporator section, a condenser section and a power section including a compressor and an inverter. The condenser section includes a condenser coil and a transverse fan with its axes disposed horizontally so as to draw air through a fresh air intake opening, through the coil and out a condenser discharge opening. The drain pan is shaped so as to form an air guiding wall around the fan, and a vortex wall is attached to the condenser coil support structure to separate low and high pressure sides of the fan. A rear wall and the fins of a discharge grill are angled with respect to the vertical plane so as to thereby prevent a recirculation of hot discharged air back into the air intake opening.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2003Date of Patent: January 10, 2006Assignee: Carrier CorporationInventors: Andreas Hille, Robert C. Reimann, Belin Czechowicz
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Patent number: 6978909Abstract: A drain pan for capturing condensate from a cooling coil in an air conditioning system is configured to facilitate condensate drainage from the pan and to inhibit accumulation of condensate therein. The pan includes troughs for collecting condensate and for channeling the condensate to the front part of the pan where the drain openings are located. A back trough has a central hump to enhance the flow of condensate from the back trough in both directions into opposed side troughs. The side troughs are sloped from back to front to conduct the condensate into a front trough to facilitate drainage from the pan. The lowermost portion of the front trough region is defined by a relatively narrow, non-flat area to reduce the amount of condensate residue in the pan.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2003Date of Patent: December 27, 2005Assignee: Advanced Distributor Products LLCInventors: Gregory T. Goetzinger, Christopher D. Beck
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Patent number: 6959561Abstract: An automotive air conditioner comprises a housing having an air flow passage defined therein. The housing includes mutually opposed side walls between which a part of the air flow passage is defined. A fan is installed in an upstream part of the air flow passage to introduce air into the air flow passage. An evaporator is installed in the air flow passage at a position downstream of the fan. The evaporator is of a stack type including a plurality of flat tube elements which are stacked on one another. Every adjacent two of the flat tube elements leave therebetween a clearance which has inlet and outlet sides. The evaporator is postured in such a manner that the flat tube elements extend between the mutually opposed side walls of the housing having the inlet sides of the clearances of the flat tube elements directed upstream toward the fan.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2002Date of Patent: November 1, 2005Assignee: Calsonic Kansei CorporationInventors: Hiroyuki Kawada, Toshio Nashiro
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Patent number: 6952937Abstract: An ice making machine having a main body and an auxiliary table which is separable from the main body, wherein the main body of the ice making machine comprises a freezing unit for making ice pieces by freezing water separated into discrete cells; a cooling system connected to the freezing unit; an ice bin for storing ice pieces made by the freezing unit; a first water supply pipe for supplying water to the freezing unit; and a first drain pipe for discharging water remaining unfrozen in the freezing unit. The auxiliary table comprises a feed water receptacle and a drain receptacle, both having a space for containing a predetermined level of water; a second water supply pipe selectively connected to the first water supply pipe to supply water contained in the feed water receptacle to the freezing unit; and a second drain pipe selectively connected to the first drain pipe to direct water discharged from the freezing unit to flow to the drain receptacle.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2003Date of Patent: October 11, 2005Assignees: Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Cheol-ho Choi, Hideo Nakajo
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Patent number: 6931882Abstract: A dual function condensate drain trap for positive or negative pressure air handling unit applicable in positive or negative pressure environments by switching connecting directions includes a drain trap which has a water inlet and a water outlet on two sides to connect to a drain pipe, and a valve seat and a retaining element located on the valve seat movable between a first position to be in contact with the valve seat and a second position to be away from the valve seat. When the pressure of water column in the water inlet is smaller than that of the water outlet, the retaining element is on the first position to form an air lock to prevent air from entering or escaping from air handling unit. By contrast, when the pressure of water column in the water inlet is greater than that of the water outlet, the retaining element is moved to the first position to drain water.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2004Date of Patent: August 23, 2005Inventor: Sam Yang
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Patent number: 6912859Abstract: A method and an apparatus for providing make-up water for a chilled water system. A first water tower for cooling water is provided. Condensate water from a condensate water source is extracted. Make-up water for the first water tower is provided using the condensate water. The apparatus comprises a first water tower for generating cooling water; an air compressor to produce compressed air; a condensate water source to extract condensate water from the compressed air; and a water flow control system for providing water from the condensate water source to the first water tower.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2003Date of Patent: July 5, 2005Assignee: Air Liquide Process and Construction, Inc.Inventor: Eric Klein
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Patent number: 6901766Abstract: An air conditioning cooling coil and its associated drain pan are positionable in either a vertical or horizontal air flow orientation. With the drain pan in its vertical air flow orientation, generally horizontally disposed drainage trough portions of the drain pan around its periphery are sloped relative to one another in a manner such that all coil condensation received in the troughs flows by gravity therethrough into a downwardly projecting condensate well and outwardly through an outlet opening therein. When the drain pan is in its horizontal air flow orientation, the troughs are disposed generally in a vertical plane, and coil condensation falls on a specially designed horizontal drip shield, which may be connected to the pan without tools, separate fasteners or sealing material, and drains along the drip shield into one of the pan troughs for discharge from the main drain opening of the pan.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2004Date of Patent: June 7, 2005Assignee: Rheem Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Changjiang Jin, Phillip Guy Brown, Carl Bergt
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Patent number: 6877333Abstract: A filter assembly for use with a gravity-assisted water saver system that sanitizes condensate from an air conditioning system with vapors released from dissolvable tablets, such as those used for treating swimming pool water or laundering purposes. It is compact and cleanable via a removable bottom cover, and it inner structure is configured to substantially reduce the likelihood of treatment vapors from the treatment chamber backing through the filter assembly and entering the connected air conditioning system from which condensate is collected. Applications can include, but are not limited to, use with systems that replenish water lost from swimming pools due to evaporation, and divert water for use in filling toilets, pressure washing, cleaning, and other gray water uses.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2003Date of Patent: April 12, 2005Inventor: Christopher Ralph Cantolino
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Production of potable water and freshwater needs for human, animal and plants from hot and humid air
Patent number: 6868690Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for extracting freshwater from atmospheric humidity in extremely hot and humid climates and supplying freshwater to a small group of people, a building, a farm, or forestation area. The freshwater is treated to provide drinking water by disinfecting to eliminate microorganisms and filtration to remove suspended particulates from air, erosion or corrosion products, and disinfected waste. Compact units provide drinking water for individuals, passengers in cars, vans, trucks, or recreational boats, or crewmembers on a seagoing cargo ship whether from atmospheric humidity or from moisture-laden gases. Furthermore, systems are disclosed for the ample supply of freshwater with minimal treatment for small- to large-sized buildings in a manner that alleviates the heat load on buildings. Collection of freshwater from hot humid ambient air is also provided for other uses, such as irrigation and farm animal drinking.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2003Date of Patent: March 22, 2005Assignee: Fakieh Research & DevelopmentInventor: Abdul-Rahman Abdul-Kader M. Faqih -
Publication number: 20040237561Abstract: A system for utilizing water originating from an air conditioning system in order to supply water to an automobile windshield wiper system, includes air conditioning generating equipment for an automobile, the air conditioning generating equipment including a compressor, a condenser and an evaporating compartment; a water-collecting container positioned below a level of the evaporating compartment; first tubing for connecting the evaporating compartment to the water-collecting container to supply water from the evaporating compartment to the water-collecting container; second tubing for connecting the water-collecting container to a windshield wiper system of the automobile; and a pump for pumping the water from the water-collecting container to the windshield wiper system through the second arrangement.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 17, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: Walter Duarte Barreto Junior
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Patent number: 6779358Abstract: A water collection and dispensing machine having a primary housing with an air inlet and an air outlet, an air blower structured to draw air into the primary housing through the air inlet and push air out of said primary housing through the air outlet. The water collection and dispensing machine further includes an evaporator coil structured to cycle a cold refrigerant liquid therethrough, the evaporator coil being disposed in line with the air inlet so that the air drawn into the primary housing through the air inlet passes thereover and moisture therefrom condenses on an exterior surface of the evaporator coil so that it may be collected in the form of water droplets, filtered to eliminate contaminants, and dispensed for convenient consumption by a user.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2001Date of Patent: August 24, 2004Assignee: International Water Makers, Inc.Inventors: John M. Zakryk, John Kopec
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Patent number: 6718788Abstract: Method for producing a galvanized steel drain pan of rectangular or square configuration for use in refrigerators, freezers, and air conditioners to collect condensate water, the method includes the steps of: cutting a blank galvanized steel plate to the desired size; folding sides portions of the blank to a degree of 60 to 90 to form side portions of the drain pan; corrugating the corners formed by the side portions; and installing a drain fitting along with a pipe to drain the condensate water from the drain pan. Also disclosed is the drain pan made by the method.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2003Date of Patent: April 13, 2004Assignee: Building Materials Investment CorporationInventor: Ronald D. Shuck
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Patent number: 6708516Abstract: An air conditioner having an air blower (1) for air blowing, a front heat exchanger (2) and a rear heat exchanger (3) respectively provided on the front side and the rear side of an indoor unit (10) so as to surround the air blower (1) and for carrying out heat exchange between the indoor air and a refrigerant, a rear drain pan (11) provided under this rear heat exchanger (3) and for receiving drained water, and an air blower air path (4) formed around the air blower (1) and narrowed near the front end portion of the drain pan (11). The lower portion of the rear heat exchanger (3) is located rearward in comparison with the upper portion of the rear heat exchanger (3) so as to be inclined backward.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2003Date of Patent: March 23, 2004Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Hidetomo Nakagawa, Masao Nagano, Isao Funayama, Toshiaki Yoshikawa
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Patent number: 6708518Abstract: The present invention relates to a refrigerator door dispenser spill shelf drain system that is connected at one end to the spill collection tray of the dispensing unit and is connected at the other end to a collector pan. The water is routed through tubing from the spill shelf to the collector evaporator pan, which is mounted atop the condenser of the refrigerator. The heat from the condenser helps to evaporate the water that accumulates there after draining from the spill shelf.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2003Date of Patent: March 23, 2004Inventors: Eangla Taylor Jones, Lorenzo Jones
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Patent number: 6705104Abstract: In a fresh water generating apparatus for condensing water content contained in air, there are provided a first heat exchanger having a refrigerant gas flow passage to which a compressed refrigerant gas is introduced, and on an outer side of which air is blown to condense the refrigerant gas, a second heat exchanger having a refrigerant liquid flow passage to which a refrigerant liquid discharged from the first heat exchanger is introduced after a pressure thereof is reduced, and on an outer side of which air is blown to cool the air and condense the water content to produce fresh water, and a power source for compressing the refrigerant gas and blowing the air.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2001Date of Patent: March 16, 2004Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd., trustee, for the benefit of Hitachi Air Conditioning Systems, Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kazuhiko Tani, Shinichiro Yamada
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Patent number: 6701740Abstract: An air conditioner water pan drain line and clean-out system has a clean-out body with an upper end. A lower end of the body has an end piece forming an internal recess with the body having an opening at the upper end with a female thread and two protruding round, tubular, horizontal hollow cylindrical passageways. A top cap in a disk-like configuration has a male thread sized to be received by and firmly held by the female thread of the body. A horizontally disposed connecting pipe has a first end coupled over with and securely held onto one of the protruding round, tubular hollow cylindrical passageways and a second end with male threads.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Inventor: Rodolfo Hernandez-Zelaya
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Patent number: 6658882Abstract: In an air conditioner (10) including an indoor-side chamber (21) containing an indoor heat exchanger (11) and an indoor fan (12), and an outdoor-side chamber (22) containing outdoor heat exchanger (13) and an outdoor fan (14), the indoor-side chamber (21) and the outdoor-side chamber (22) being partitioned by a partition plate (20), the partition plate (2) has a top panel (42) having a ventilation opening portion and a ventilation shutter (49) for opening/closing said ventilation opening portion (48) to freely adjust the opening degree of said ventilation opening portion (48). An indoor fan casing (34) having a heater lower-portion mounting portion (64) located above a drain pan (33) is provided between the indoor fan (12) and the partition plate (20), and an electrical heater (55) is disposed on the heater lower-portion mounting portion (64) so that the electric heater (55) is located above the drain pan (33) through the lower-portion mounting portion (64).Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignees: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd., Sanyo Electric Air Conditioning Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yasunori Ohama, Kiyoshi Kobayashi, Takuya Kajita, Harutaka Genno, Junichi Gouya, Keiko Kajita
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Patent number: 6644060Abstract: An apparatus for extracting potable water from the environment air comprises a moisture collecting system having dew-forming surfaces and disposed so that the air drawn into the apparatus passes therethrough and moisture from the air condenses in the dew-forming surfaces. The apparatus also comprises a water reservoir capable of receiving water collected as moisture in the moisture collecting system. The water reservoir has a bottom and a side surface constituting a surface of revolution around a longitudinal axis of the reservoir, the reservoir having an outlet port formed at the bottom thereof along the longitudinal axis, for the withdrawal of water from the reservoir, and a circulation inlet port formed in the side surface. The circulation inlet port is designed so as to enable the introduction of water into the reservoir tangentially to the surface.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2002Date of Patent: November 11, 2003Assignee: Dil Sham VenturesInventor: Amir Dagan
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Publication number: 20030154736Abstract: This invention is directed to a water generating apparatus for extracting water from ambient air. The apparatus provides a condensing surface which is maintained during the operation of the apparatus at a temperature which is below the dew point of the ambient air. The presence of contaminants within the extracted water are reduced by filtering the ambient air prior to its processing by the apparatus and subsequently filtering the condensate. The apparatus is constructed from components which produce minimal particulate matter. The use of such components minimizes the likelihood of those components contributing to the contamination of the water generated from the apparatus. Bacteriological contamination in the condensed water is reduced by constructing the apparatus from components that retard bacteria growth. Further diminution of bacterial growth is achieved by maintaining a continuous flow of water condensate through the apparatus.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 5, 2002Publication date: August 21, 2003Inventors: Douglas J. Lloyd, Siegfried E. Baier
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Patent number: 6598413Abstract: An object of this invention is to avoid squeaks caused. There is provided a ceiling embedded-type air conditioner in which a decorative panel (20) having an air suction port (21) and air blow-off ports (22) is detachably mounted onto the air conditioner main body (10), in which three sides of a pedestal portion made of sealing material (27) for sealing the outer circumference of the rectangular air blow-off port (22) are configured by reinforcing ribs (28a, 28b) obtained by integrally molding with the decorative panel, and only one side of the pedestal portion is configured by an air guide member (29) made of a foaming resin molded part.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2002Date of Patent: July 29, 2003Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Manabu Asahina, Hiroshi Nakashima, Atsushi Edayoshi, Kazunobu Sekiguchi, Ryo Oya, Tatsuo Sone
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Patent number: 6591628Abstract: An outdoor unit (1) of an air conditioner comprises a unit case having a rectangular shape in section and composed of side panels (4, 4, - -) in which a machine chamber (3) and a heat exchanger chamber (2) are defined so as to be vertically aligned in an installed state with the heat exchanger chamber being disposed above the machine chamber and being sectioned therefrom by means of a partition plate (12) which also acts as a drain plate or pan, and the side panels surrounding the heat exchanger chamber is formed with air suction ports (4a, 4a - -). The outdoor unit (1) further comprises a heat exchanger unit (17, 18) having four side wall sections at least opposing two of which are inclined inward by a predetermined angle with respect to inner surfaces of the side panels to which the air suction ports are formed. Thus, the outside air can be effectively and smoothly introduced inside the outdoor unit.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2001Date of Patent: July 15, 2003Assignee: Toshiba Carrier CorporationInventors: Shigeo Mochizuki, Yasunori Ichikawa, Tomio Tanaka, Akihiro Suzuki, Toshihiro Yamamoto
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Patent number: 6588226Abstract: A system for recovering potable water from the water vapor in ambient air at a wide range of temperature and humidity conditions. The system is especially adapt at operating efficiently at low temperatures and/or low humidities. The system is able to operate efficiently at low temperatures and/or low humidities by employing a mechanism for enhancing the buildup of frozen water on the surfaces used to condense the water vapor from ambient air.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2000Date of Patent: July 8, 2003Assignee: Aquatronics, Inc.Inventors: Terry L. Semrow, Elwin Brooks Petersen, Cory Buckway, Keith C. Warner, Mark H. Nelson, Desiree Ragan, Nick Wells, Greg A. Cameron
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Patent number: 6588225Abstract: This invention is directed towards apparatus for the production of water from air, and in particular for the production of drinking water. The apparatus includes an air intake device adapted to move air into the apparatus, an evaporator adapted to freeze the water contained in the air issuing from the air intake device and defrosting means adapted to defrost the water frozen by the adapter; the volume of air passing over the frosting surface of the evaporator; evaporator being controlled by either the air intake device or the evaporator. In an alternative form the apparatus may include an air intake device adapted to move air into the apparatus, an air temperature controller to control the temperature of the air entering the apparatus, an evaporator adapted to freeze water contained in the air issuing from the temperature controller and a defroster adapted to defrost the water frozen by the evaporator.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2000Date of Patent: July 8, 2003Assignee: Watermaster Technologies LimitedInventors: Thomas Clarence Hodgson, Anton Rudolf Mikulicic
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Patent number: 6578376Abstract: A refrigeration system, refrigeration apparatus, evaporator apparatus, refrigeration apparatus conversion kit, and associated methods are provided.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2002Date of Patent: June 17, 2003Inventor: Matt Alvin Thurman
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Production of potable water and freshwater needs for human, animal and plants from hot and humid air
Patent number: 6574979Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for extracting freshwater from atmospheric humidity in extremely hot and humid climates and supplying freshwater to a small group of people, a building, a farm, or forestation area. The freshwater is treated to provide drinking water by disinfecting to eliminate microorganisms and filtration to remove suspended particulates from air, erosion or corrosion products, and disinfected waste. Compact units provide drinking water for individuals, passengers in cars, vans, trucks, or recreational boats, or crewmembers on a seagoing cargo ship whether from atmospheric humidity or from moisture-laden gases. Furthermore, systems are disclosed for the ample supply of freshwater with minimal treatment for small- to large-sized buildings in a manner that alleviates the heat load on buildings. Collection of freshwater from hot humid ambient air is also provided for other uses, such as irrigation and farm animal drinking.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2001Date of Patent: June 10, 2003Assignee: Fakieh Research & DevelopmentInventor: Abdul-Rahman Abdul-Kader M. Faqih -
Publication number: 20030097763Abstract: A portable, atmospheric dehydrator and water condenser for dehydrating fruits and vegetables while producing pure atmospheric condensation from humidity found in the air and purifying the water for dispensing and drinking purposes.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 10, 2002Publication date: May 29, 2003Inventors: Michael Morgan, Janet Morgan
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Publication number: 20030094011Abstract: A water collection and dispensing machine having a primary housing with an air inlet and an air outlet, an air blower structured to draw air into the primary housing through the air inlet and push air out of said primary housing through the air outlet. The water collection and dispensing machine further includes an evaporator coil structured to cycle a cold refrigerant liquid therethrough, the evaporator coil being disposed in line with the air inlet so that the air drawn into the primary housing through the air inlet passes thereover and moisture therefrom condenses on an exterior surface of the evaporator coil so that it may be collected in the form of water droplets, filtered to eliminate contaminants, and dispensed for convenient consumption by a user.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 18, 2001Publication date: May 22, 2003Inventors: John M. Zakryk, John Kopec
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Patent number: 6550264Abstract: A gravity-assisted water saving system, and a method for its use, that can be utilized to collect the condensate from an air conditioning system, sanitize it, and then divert it for constructive use. It has a chamber with an inclined bottom surface, a dimension slightly larger than a stack of several tablets used for sanitizing swimming pool water or bleach tablets used for laundry sanitizing purposes, a P-trap on its water inlet side that prevents corrosive fumes from entering the air conditioning system from which the condensate is derived, a removable cap sealing its top opening to prevent escape of corrosive fumes into the atmosphere, and an optional mounting bracket for enhanced stabilization. Inflow tubing connected to the chamber permits ready attachment of the present invention to an air conditioning condensate discharge pipe, while a discharge tube in an inferior position transports reclaimed water to its location of subsequent use.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2002Date of Patent: April 22, 2003Inventor: Christopher Ralph Cantolino
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Patent number: 6550257Abstract: An angled germicidal lamp is used to illuminate a coil and drain pan for optimum energy utilization. In one embodiment, a variable angled mount is used for positioning a germicidal lamp at a desired angle at the time of installation. In a second embodiment, a fixed angled mount is used for installation where the desired angle of mounting is known prior to installation. The angled germicidal lamp may be used with any coil installation, including flat, tilted and A-coils. For A-coil installations, a preformed delta plate is provided to ease installation.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2001Date of Patent: April 22, 2003Assignees: Heatcraft Inc., Dust Free, Inc.Inventors: Gregory T. Goetzinger, Robert E. Smith, Gregg Burnett
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Patent number: 6523363Abstract: An evaporator assembly includes a support housing for mounting to an internal compartment of a delivery truck or trailer. At least one evaporator coil mounts to the support housing along with at least one cooling fan. A plastic outer skin incorporates a drain pan to collect condensation and moisture dripping from the evaporator coils during the defrost cycle. The plastic outer covering includes thermal properties that eliminate the need for insulation required when using prior art aluminum coverings. End caps attached to each side of the outer covering include a drain tube. The plastic outer covering is formed in lengths from a plastic extrusion process and then cut to the required length for the evaporator assembly.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2001Date of Patent: February 25, 2003Assignee: Carrier CorporationInventors: Sylvain Gully, Bernard Valentin, Philippe Vaas, Stephane Boudonnet
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Patent number: 6505477Abstract: An apparatus to extract water from ambient air. The apparatus includes a dehumidifier, a holding tank, and one or more dispensing tanks in which water is maintained hot or cold. Provision is made to recycle water in the holding tank through an aerator to prevent stagnation of stored water. Water from the holding tank is pumped through a filter system before entering the dispensing tanks. A safety control is provided to prevent overflowing a collection pump reservoir in event of interruption in normal water flow in the machine. Provision is made to control bacteria and algae.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2000Date of Patent: January 14, 2003Assignee: Cloud Nine of Utah, Inc.Inventors: Shayne D. Smith, Joeseph W. Stewart
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Patent number: 6499309Abstract: A water supply system for supplying water by condensing air humidity is disclosed. The water supply system is provided with a housing adapted to be mounted on a building. An air humidity condensing system is mounted in the housing to condense air humidity to water. A water collector is arranged below the air humidity condensing system for collecting the water collected by the air humidity condensing system. A water-storage tank is used to storage the water and then supply the water via distributing ducts to the building. A solar collector panel is further supported over the housing to supply electric energy by converting solar energy.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Lucky Star Enterprise & Co., Ltd.Inventor: Chao-Hsiung Yeh
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Patent number: 6497255Abstract: A floor panel for use in an air handling unit that provides a thermal barrier to the passage of heat. The panel is reinforced internally so that it can support a heavy piece of air handling equipment inside the unit such as an air conditioner heat exchanger coil. The panel includes a reservoir for collecting moisture from the coil and rapidly exhausting the moisture from the unit.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2001Date of Patent: December 24, 2002Assignee: Carrier CorporationInventors: John Carlisle Adams, Timothy Edward Ruhl
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Publication number: 20020189273Abstract: In a fresh water generating apparatus for condensing water content contained in air, there are provided a first heat exchanger having a refrigerant gas flow passage to which a compressed refrigerant gas is introduced, and on an outer side of which air is blown to condense the refrigerant gas, a second heat exchanger having a refrigerant liquid flow passage to which a refrigerant liquid discharged from the first heat exchanger is introduced after a pressure thereof is reduced, and on an outer side of which air is blown to cool the air and condense the water content to produce fresh water, and a power source for compressing the refrigerant gas and blowing the air.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 16, 2001Publication date: December 19, 2002Inventors: Kazuhiko Tani, Shinichiro Yamada
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Patent number: 6490879Abstract: This invention is directed to a water generating apparatus for extracting water from ambient air. The apparatus provides a condensing surface which is maintained during the operation of the apparatus at a temperature which is below the dew point of the ambient air. The presence of contaminants within the extracted water are reduced by filtering the ambient air prior to its processing by the apparatus and subsequently filtering the condensate. The apparatus is constructed from components which produce minimal particulate matter. The use of such components minimizes the likelihood of those components contributing to the contamination of the water generated from the apparatus. Bacteriological contamination in the condensed water is reduced by constructing the apparatus from components that retard bacteria growth. Further diminution of bacterial growth is achieved by maintaining a continuous flow of water condensate through the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2000Date of Patent: December 10, 2002Assignee: Assist International Marketing, Inc.Inventors: Douglas J. Lloyd, Siegfried E. Baier
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Patent number: 6481232Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for the combined collection of freshwater from atmospheric humidity and cooling of closed spaces in hot and humid climates through collection and processing of water vapor condensate from air conditioning units and dehumidification and air-drying units. Components of air conditioning units are rearranged to allow outdoor air to go through the units to increase the condensate and hence freshwater production. Design modifications of dehumidifiers include separation of cooling and water condensation components from other components that radiate heat to enhance the cooling effects of dry air leaving the dehumidifiers. In addition, apparatus and methods are disclosed for adaptation of commercial dehumidifiers using gas refrigerants in providing ample freshwater quantities and comfortable space cooling.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2001Date of Patent: November 19, 2002Assignee: Fakieh Research & Development CenterInventor: Abdul-Rahman Abdul Faqih