With Removing Of Moisture Patents (Class 62/93)
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6672083
    Abstract: Integrated mini ice sheets comprise an ice skating surface. At least one divider is disposed upon the skating surface for dividing the ice skating surface into a plurality of skating areas. The divider comprises one or more panels, optionally joined, and additionally comprises common or separate air conditioning means, optionally ducted, optionally integrated with the divider, for providing chilled dried air over the ice skating surface in each skating environment created in the skating areas separated by the divider.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Steve Mildengren
  • Patent number: 6672082
    Abstract: A heat pump with a high coefficient of performance and a dehumidifying apparatus consumes a small amount of energy per amount of moisture removal. The heat pump includes a pressurizer for raising a pressure of a refrigerant; a condenser for condensing the refrigerant to heat a high-temperature heat source fluid; an evaporator for evaporating the refrigerant to cool a low-temperature heat source fluid; and heat exchanger disposed in a refrigerant path connecting the condenser and the evaporator for evaporating and condensing the refrigerant under an intermediate pressure between the condensing pressure of the condenser and the evaporating pressure of the evaporator 210. The low-temperature heat source fluid is successively cooled by the heat exchanging means, cooled by the evaporator, and heated by the heat exchanger in such order.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Ebara Corporation
    Inventors: Kensaku Maeda, Hideo Inaba, Shunro Nishiwaki
  • Patent number: 6663044
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a vapor compression cycle environmental control system for use on aircraft. The system includes an environmental control subsystem which supplies pressurized ram air at a desired temperature to the aircraft's flight deck and/or cabin. The environmental control subsystem uses a vapor compression cycle subsystem to provide the ram air at the desired temperature. The system further includes an air turbine driven by engine bleed air to provide power to an aircraft mounted accessory drive and to provide heated air to an anti-ice system. The aircraft mounted accessory drive provides power to an air compressor which forms part of the environmental control subsystem and to a working fluid compressor which forms part of the vapor compression cycle subsystem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventors: Jules Ricardo Munoz, Luca Bertuccioli, Michael K. Sahm, Jay Fletcher, Charles E. Lents, Richard Welch, Steve Squier, Arthur Chris Becker
  • Publication number: 20030208923
    Abstract: A dehumidification dryer configured and operated so at to achieve higher drying temperatures than traditionally obtainable with dehumidification driers. The invention takes advantage of refrigerants not previously used in the field of dehumidification drying to achieve temperatures in the range of 180-225° F. that previously were found only in open hot air kilns, open commercial clothes driers, and other apparatus of high throughput. In order to make optimum use of high-temperature refrigerants, the invention uses variable control rates for drying the air that is used as the drying medium, and restructures the deployment of the components of the refrigeration circuit that participates in the heat and humidity exchange central to the operation of the drier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Inventor: Donald C. Lewis
  • Publication number: 20030188542
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for regulating a compressor installation with at least one compressor element (6) driven by a motor and, in the pressure conduit (11) thereof, a dryer (2) of the type comprising a pressure vessel (24) with a drying zone (3) and a regeneration zone (4), and a rotor (25) continuously rotated in this pressure vessel (24) by a motor (33), which rotor is filled with a regenerable drying agent. A portion of the compressed air is supplied, by means of a branch (15), to the regeneration zone (4) and, after cooling down and separation of the condensed water, is fed back to the pressure conduit (11). The speed of both motors (9, 33) is regulated by a regulation device (13) in function of the pressure in the pressure conduit (11).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2003
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Inventor: Danny Etienne Andree Vertriest
  • Patent number: 6622508
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for heat and humidity exchange between two air streams, one hot and one humid. A first of the air streams is fed from the interior of a building to the ambient air and a second of the air streams is fed from the ambient air to the interior of the building. The first air stream is cooled and transferred through a heat exchanger, to a heater and a dehumidifier before being exhausted to the ambient air. The second air stream is transferred through the dehumidifier and the heat exchanger, whereupon it is cooled in a cooling device before being transferred into the interior to the building. Before being fed to the dehumidifier, the second air stream is caused to exchange heat and humidity with the first air stream before the latter is fed into the heat exchanger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Munters Europe AB
    Inventors: Paul A. Dinnage, Wolfgang Krause, Dietmar Müller
  • Patent number: 6619054
    Abstract: A condenser, for cooling a gas flow containing a vapor to promote condensation of the vapor, has a generally cylindrical chamber. Gas is admitted at one end of the chamber and is given a swirl component of velocity. The gas then travels axially along the length of the chamber, and passes radially through poles into the bore of a separator. The swirl velocity of the gas flow tends to through water droplets radially outwards, where they can drain down the inside of a casing defining the chamber. The separator can include a skirt portion separating the main chamber from a water collection compartment. Cooling to cause condensation is provided by an external jacket, preferably having a coolant flowing through it in a helical fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Hydrogenics Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Cargnelli, Ravi B. Gopal, Jianming Ye
  • Publication number: 20030167779
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method for the reclamation of atmospheric water with the help of a water reclamation chamber (1) with water reclamation cells (2) and variable high-performance blowers (3). In this occurs by means of cooling collectors (6) during the nighttime the cooling of a coolant stored in a cooling reservoir (7), and during the daytime operation by means of solar collectors (8) occurs the heating of a further fluid stored in a heat reservoir, whereby the coolant that is cooled during the night for the purpose of water reclamation cools by day and/or night the cooling registers through which air flows. At these cooling registers, the air is dehumidified whereby the heat-accumulating fluid by day and/or by night is used for the generation of energy for the operation of the equipment and/or for the extraction of water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2003
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventor: Walter Georg Steiner
  • Publication number: 20030154736
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2002
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Inventors: Douglas J. Lloyd, Siegfried E. Baier
  • Patent number: 6588226
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Aquatronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Terry L. Semrow, Elwin Brooks Petersen, Cory Buckway, Keith C. Warner, Mark H. Nelson, Desiree Ragan, Nick Wells, Greg A. Cameron
  • Patent number: 6588225
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Watermaster Technologies Limited
    Inventors: Thomas Clarence Hodgson, Anton Rudolf Mikulicic
  • Patent number: 6574979
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Fakieh Research & Development
    Inventor: Abdul-Rahman Abdul-Kader M. Faqih
  • Publication number: 20030094011
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2001
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Inventors: John M. Zakryk, John Kopec
  • Publication number: 20030084671
    Abstract: A fluid transport system including a fluid transfer assembly, an air dryer and a tube. The fluid transfer assembly includes a pipe for transporting a cold fluid and a vapor barrier surrounding the pipe. The air dryer removes moisture in the air. The tube is connected to the air dryer and the fluid transfer assembly. The tube transfers air from the air dryer to the fluid transfer assembly at a plurality of points along a length of the fluid transfer assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Thomas L. Cooper
  • Publication number: 20030061822
    Abstract: Described is a climate control system with an air conditioning or a heat pump and a method to provide desirable temperature and humidity of indoor air. In addition to a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator, and an expansion device, the air conditioner/heat pump includes an auxiliary coil, valve means, refrigerant communication means, and control means. In hot climate the system operates in two separate modes: a conventional cooling mode and a cooling mode with enhanced dehumidification. In the conventional cooling mode the valve means direct refrigerant leaving the condenser to the expansion device and then to the auxiliary coil to absorb heat from conditioning air by refrigerant in the auxiliary coil. In this mode an extra amount of liquid refrigerant is stored in the refrigerant communication means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2001
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Inventor: Alexander P. Rafalovich
  • Patent number: 6539731
    Abstract: A humid gas stream is dehumidified by bringing that stream into contact with the front surface of a hydrophilic capillary condenser layer that captures the water and moves it adjacent the rear surface of the capillary layer. An osmotic layer, such as a semi-permeable membrane, is disposed on the rear surface of the condenser layer, and an osmotic fluid having a low concentration of water therein, is disposed adjacent the osmotic layer. An osmotic driving force, resulting from the water concentration gradient across the osmotic layer, transports the condensed water from the condensing layer through the thickness of the osmotic layer and into an osmotic fluid. The osmotic layer also inhibits the osmotic fluid from flowing into the condenser layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Inventors: Arthus S. Kesten, Sunita Satyapal, James D. Freihaut, Carol M. Hawk
  • Patent number: 6536511
    Abstract: A device for treating a substantially gaseous medium includes a number of parallel plates (14) which are connected to each other and provided adjacent to each other in such a manner that they, via port holes in the plates (14), form a first channel (5) and a second channel (9, 9′). The first channel (5) is arranged to transport the gaseous medium, and the second channel (9, 9′), which is separated from but in heat transferring contact with the first channel (5), is arranged to transport a cooling medium for cooling the gaseous medium. At least a part (3) of the first channel (5) is arranged to separate liquid from the gaseous medium. The part (3) of the first channel (5) is formed by a plurality of plate interspaces between a part of the plates (14), wherein at least one of the plates (14), delimiting one of the plate interspaces, is arranged to be passed by the gaseous medium on both sides thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Alfa Laval AB
    Inventors: Magnus Nilsson, Klas Bertilsson
  • Patent number: 6508066
    Abstract: A dual path single coil dehumidification system is provided. The system includes a housing that is mounted onto the top of a building that is to be dehumidified. The system draws in outside air which is circulated along its own dedicated path. A cooling coil is disposed in the dedicated outside air path. The outside air therefore passes over the cooling coil and is dehumidified prior to being mixed with any other air. The system also draws in return air from the interior of the building. The system is arranged so that the return air is drawn over refrigeration units that are located in the building to cool the return air. The cooled return air is then drawn into the housing where it is mixed with the outside air only after the outside air passes over the cooling coil. The mixed dehumidified outside air and the cooled return air form a supply air stream that is delivered to the interior of the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Inventors: Raymond A. Mierins, Bryan Elliott
  • Patent number: 6505472
    Abstract: A method and condenser apparatus for cleaning a gas of condensable vapor employing a cryogenic liquid which is caused to boil evenly along the condenser length and wherein the gas flow through the condenser is in the downward direction in evenly divided flows countercurrently to the flow of boiled cryogen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan Cheng, Simon Ho
  • Publication number: 20020189273
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2001
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventors: Kazuhiko Tani, Shinichiro Yamada
  • Patent number: 6490874
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing moisture from within an electronics enclosure is provided. In particular, dehumidification is accomplished by removing air from the enclosure, cooling the air thereby causing condensation of water vapor from the air, then heating the dehumidified air and returning the heated and dehumidified air to the enclosure. A single heat pump provides cooling and heating functions, effectively recouping heat extracted from the air to be cooled, and transferring the extracted heat to the air prior to its return to the enclosure. In this manner, electronics within the enclosure may be operated at temperatures below the dew point of ambient air surrounding the enclosure, without requiring a thermally insulated enclosure. Devices are provided to collect and purge condensate from the system, either in a continuous or periodic manner. Embodiments employing conventional vapor compression cycle heat pumps and thermoelectric heat pumps are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Richard C. Chu, Michael J. Ellsworth, Jr., Robert E. Simons
  • Publication number: 20020174665
    Abstract: A variable evaporator control system and method in a gas dryer for maximizing the cooling which can be accomplished for a given length heat exchanger by adjusting the evaporator refrigerant approach temperature responsive to changes in the gas load on the system. Pressure and/or temperature sensors positioned at particular locations in the system provide feedback for controlling adjustments in the approach temperature depending on the gas load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2002
    Publication date: November 28, 2002
    Inventors: Brian W. Pritchard, Mark F. Honath, Timothy J. Fox
  • Patent number: 6484525
    Abstract: A first channel (20) is formed by sequentially connecting a compressor (21), a vapor separator (55), a heat exchanger (30) and an expander (22). In the first channel (20), a room air is taken as a primary air and discharged to outdoors. A second channel (40) is formed by connecting a heat exchanger (30) to a second inlet duct (43) and a second outlet duct (44). In the second channel (40), an outside air is taken as a secondary air and supplied to a room. The vapor separator (55) is connected to a vacuum pump (36). The vapor separator (55) separates vapor from the compressed primary air to dehumidify the primary air to or below the absolute humidity of the outside air. The vapor separated by the vapor separator (55) is partly supplied to the secondary air in the second outlet duct (44). Then, the secondary air thus humidified is supplied to the room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: Daikin Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Chun-cheng Piao, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Yuji Watanabe, Manabu Yoshimi, Kazuo Yonemoto
  • Patent number: 6481232
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Fakieh Research & Development Center
    Inventor: Abdul-Rahman Abdul Faqih
  • Patent number: 6470693
    Abstract: A gas compressor refrigeration system including a chiller for cooling gas, a separator for separating condensate from the gas, and a reheater for heating the gas. The system also includes a closed refrigerant system which passes a charge of refrigerant in series, through a compression unit, then through the reheater in which the refrigerant exchanges heat with the gas, then through a condenser in which the refrigerant exchanges heat with ambient air, and then through the chiller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: Ingersoll-Rand Company
    Inventor: James R. Dickey
  • Patent number: 6467292
    Abstract: A control system for compressed gas refrigeration dryers comprises a gas/gas exchanger (7), suitable for cooling a mixture of compressed gas (M), using an outgoing gas (K) from an air condenser (8), and at least one refrigeration cycle (11), which includes an evaporator (6); each of said refrigeration cycles (11) comprises at least two compressors (1, 2), connected in parallel to each other and each connected in series to at least one non-return valve (3), said compressors (1, 2) being further connected, by means of at least one duct (13), so that the respective zones containing the lubricating oil are connected to each other. It also comprises at least one refrigeration capacity variation system suitable for driving the contemporary or separate functioning of said compressors (1, 2), with the possibility of controlling the motor rotation of at least one of the compressors in relation to the cooling load to be transferred to the evaporator (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Assignee: Domnick Hunter Hoross S.p.A.
    Inventors: Peter Paul Praxmarer, Luciano Bellemo
  • Patent number: 6463750
    Abstract: The invention provides a system for the dehumidification of air in a space inside an enclosure, the system including at least one air/brine heat exchanger unit for heating cold fresh air introduced into the heat exchanger from the outside and for dehumidifying the air within the enclosure by vapor condensation; and a brine regenerator in brine communication with the air/brine heat exchanger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Assignee: Agam Energy Systems Ltd.
    Inventor: Gad Assaf
  • Publication number: 20020139127
    Abstract: A humid gas stream is dehumidified by bringing that stream into contact with the front surface of a hydrophilic capillary condenser layer that captures the water and moves it adjacent the rear surface of the capillary layer. An osmotic layer, such as a semi-permeable membrane, is disposed on the rear surface of the condenser layer, and an osmotic fluid having a low concentration of water therein, is disposed adjacent the osmotic layer. An osmotic driving force, resulting from the water concentration gradient across the osmotic layer, transports the condensed water from the condensing layer through the thickness of the osmotic layer and into an osmotic fluid. The osmotic layer also inhibits the osmotic fluid from flowing into the condenser layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Inventors: Arthur S. Kesten, Sunita Satyapal, James D. Freihaut, Carol M. Hawk
  • Patent number: 6453684
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for extracting liquid water from moist air using minimal energy input. The method comprises compressing moist air under conditions that foster the condensation of liquid water. The air can be decompressed under conditions that do not foster the vaporization of the condensate. The decompressed, dried air can be exchanged for a fresh charge of moist air and the process repeated. The liquid condensate can be removed for use. The apparatus can comprise a compression chamber having a variable internal volume. An intake port allows moist air into the compression chamber. An exhaust port allows dried air out of the compression chamber. A condensation device fosters condensation at the desired conditions. A condensate removal port allows liquid water to be removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventors: Barry L. Spletzer, Diane Schafer Callow, Lisa C. Marron, Jonathan R. Salton
  • Publication number: 20020121103
    Abstract: A heat exchanger subsystem for an environmental control system comprises a heat exchanger array having a plurality of heat exchanger elements that operate in parallel to an inlet cooling airflow to the heat exchanger array such that each load heat exchanger is connected to a separate load with each heat transfer loop operating in substantially independent fashion without load interaction effects. In addition, continuous ice and water removal is provided allowing continuous subfreezing operation improving cooling performance along with anti-ice provisions which recover rejected heat for improved energy efficiency. The heat exchanger elements may include air-to-air heat exchanger cores, liquid-to-air heat exchanger cores, and hot bars internal or external to the heat exchanger cores.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2001
    Publication date: September 5, 2002
    Applicant: Honeywell International, Inc.
    Inventors: Aniekan Udobot, Ron Brager, Larry Reed
  • Patent number: 6442951
    Abstract: A heat exchanger of a high heat exchange efficiency with a small size for its large heat exchanger duty is provided. The heat exchanger comprises: a first compartment 310 for flowing a first fluid A; a second compartment 320 for flowing a second fluid B; a first flow passage 251 passing through the compartment and for flowing the third fluid for exchanging heat with the first fluid A; and a second flow passage 252 passing through the compartment and for flowing the third fluid for exchanging heat with the first fluid B; the first and second flow passages 251, 252 are formed as an integral passage; the third fluid flows through from the first flow passage 251 to the second flow passage 252; the third fluid evaporates in the first flow passage 251 at a specific pressure; the third fluid condenses in the second flow passage 252 at the approximately specific pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: Ebara Corporation
    Inventors: Kensaku Maeda, Yoshiro Fukasaku
  • Publication number: 20020116934
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for conditioning air for an enclosure is disclosed in which a supply air stream, preferably from the atmosphere is cooled by the cooling coil of a refrigerant cooling system to reduce the temperature and humidity thereof to first predetermined level. The thus cooled and dehumidified air is then passed through a segment of a rotating desiccant wheel under conditions which reduce moisture content and increase temperature to a second predetermined temperature range. The supply air is then delivered from the desiccant wheel to the enclosure. The desiccant wheel is regenerated by heating a separate regeneration air stream, also preferably from the atmosphere, using the condensing coil of the refrigerant system in order to increase the regeneration air stream temperature to a third predetermined temperature range. The thus heated regeneration air stream is then passed through another segment of the rotating desiccant wheel to regenerate the wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Inventors: Paul A. Dinnage, Stephen C. Brickley
  • Publication number: 20020116933
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing moisture from within an electronics enclosure is provided. In particular, dehumidification is accomplished by removing air from the enclosure, cooling the air thereby causing condensation of water vapor from the air, then heating the dehumidified air and returning the heated and dehumidified air to the enclosure. A single heat pump provides cooling and heating functions, effectively recouping heat extracted from the air to be cooled, and transferring the extracted heat to the air prior to its return to the enclosure. In this manner, electronics within the enclosure may be operated at temperatures below the dew point of ambient air surrounding the enclosure, without requiring a thermally insulated enclosure. Devices are provided to collect and purge condensate from the system, either in a continuous or periodic manner. Embodiments employing conventional vapor compression cycle heat pumps and thermoelectric heat pumps are described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2000
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Richard C. Chu, Michael J. Ellsworth, Robert E. Simons
  • Publication number: 20020116935
    Abstract: A dehumidifier system comprising:
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2002
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Applicant: DRYKOR LTD.
    Inventors: Mordechai Forkosh, Dan Forkosh, Tomy Forkosh
  • Patent number: 6434963
    Abstract: An air cooler has a casing containing two air flow paths through one of which cooled fresh air is supplied to a house, while the other receives stale air from the house. An efficient heat exchanger pre-cools the fresh air with the heat extracted from the stale air, Further cooling is achieved by evaporative cooling of water from two honeycomb structures respectively spanning the two air flow paths. A pump circulates cooled water to the upper end of one of the structures from the lower end of the other structure which receives, at its upper end, the water which has percolated down through the upper structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventor: John Francis Urch
  • Patent number: 6427455
    Abstract: A cooling device is disclosed capable of reducing the amount of frost deposited on a cooling coil (7), wherein cooling fans (8a, 8b) are disposed at the front of the cooling coil (7), most of the flowing air discharged into a cooling chamber is discharged again into the cooling chamber by the cooling fans (8a, 8b) without being returned to the cooling coil (7), dry cooling air in the cooling coil (7) is sucked from the rear of the cooling fans (8a, 8b) and discharged into the cooling chamber, an air volume corresponding to the volume of sucked air passed through the cooling coil (7) is fed from the cooling chamber to the cooling coil (7) through areas not occupied by the cooling fans (8a, 8b), and the air feeding speed is so set as to permit vapor generated in the cooling chamber to solidity until the vapor is brought into contact with the surface of the cooling coil (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: Light Shoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Yasuo Furubayashi
  • Patent number: 6427454
    Abstract: Dehumidification is achieved using an air conditioning system, by employing an independent humidity control signal to direct ambient air through a heat exchanger and a bypass to the heat exchanger. The air passing through the heat exchanger is dehumidified and mixed with the bypassed air before returning dehumidified air to a controlled space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Inventor: Michael K. West
  • Publication number: 20020088239
    Abstract: The air conditioning system for conditioning of an airflow stream uses a fluid flow system to control operational modes of heating, cooling, freeze protection and defrost. The fluid flow system allows an air conditioning system to operate using a hot fluid source without the need for a gas or oil direct heat air stream heat system. The fluid flow system circulates fluid through a reheat coil and a precooling coil or a bypass conduit thereof depending on the operating mode of the system. Routing of fluid flow is controlled by a hot water control valve and a bypass valve under control of a controls fluid pressure and minimizing formation of gas bubbles in the fluid which condition may degrade system performance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2002
    Publication date: July 11, 2002
    Inventor: Stanley Goldstein
  • Publication number: 20020076927
    Abstract: The present invention is a dedicated apparatus for the formation of array that includes one or more deposition domains comprised of one or more deposition materials. The present invention may include an X, Y controller, an X, Y translation stage, a loading substrate, a deposition substrate, a Z controller, and a deposition probe. A computer controls all of the relative positions of each of the components. Furthermore, the present invention utilizes a humidity control system to create a capillary bridge between the probe and the substrate for transferring the deposition material between the loading substrate, the deposition probe, and the deposition substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Eric Henderson, Curtis Mosher
  • Publication number: 20020069653
    Abstract: A machine capable of generating and dispensing potable water is disclosed. Novel features of the inventive machine include continuous water filtration, a durable primary outer housing unit designed to minimize damage during transportation and handling, and a hot gas injection system designed to allow the generation of water from ambient air at temperatures as low as 50° F.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2001
    Publication date: June 13, 2002
    Inventor: Winton J. Goodchild
  • Patent number: 6393850
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for cool-drying, comprising a heat exchanger (1), the primary part of which is the evaporator (2) of a cooling circuit (3) which further comprises a compressor (5) driven by an electric motor (4) being bridged-over by means of a bypass (17) with therein a bypass-closing element (18) and an open/closed closing element (19). The secondary part (1A) of the heat exchanger (1) forms part of a conduit (9) for the gas and, at the outlet of this heat exchanger (1), a liquid separator (11) is disposed. The device comprises means (15) for regulating the speed of the motor (4), which means are controlled by means of a control device (16) in function of the value measured by the measuring means (22, 22A).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Assignee: Atlas Copco Airpower
    Inventor: Bart Etienne Agnes Vanderstraeten
  • Patent number: 6385978
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for reducing the moisture content of a gas stream is provided. The apparatus includes a shell having a least one tube disposed therein and a condensate trap attached to the shell. A gas stream inlet and outlet are provided so that the gas stream may flow through tubes or shell, and preferably through the tubes although it is contemplated to flow the gas stream through the shell side. The drying apparatus further includes a coolant and/or volatile fluid inlet and outlet to flow a fluid such as, but not limited to, water, alcohol, or acetone to cool the gas stream and condense moisture contained therein. The drying apparatus and method of the present invention may further include a vaporization unit for vaporizing the volatile fluid with a stream of gas such as air to form a cool vapor cloud to pass through the drying apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Inventor: Brian S. Elliott
  • Patent number: 6378311
    Abstract: A thermoelectric dehumidifier includes at least one thermoelectric chiller element disposed within a sealed cavity defined between hot and cold plates for removing moisture from an enclosure. The thermoelectric dehumidifier can include a gutter for receiving condensate from the coldplate surface. A drainage mechanism can be coupled to the gutter for removing the collected condensate from the enclosure. An antenna array enclosure can include a thermoelectric dehumidifier that passively reduces the relative humidity within the array enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventor: Craig H. McCordic
  • Publication number: 20020046569
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for extraction of freshwater from ambient air in regions of extremely hot and humid climates, for supply of drinking water and freshwater for small to large groups of people in remote and isolated areas or wherever freshwater resources are not conveniently accessible. Compact mobile units are disclosed to provide freshwater and drinking water for resort areas, to passengers on land and sea vehicles, in situations of emergency, and to areas of water shortage. The art of adaptation of commercial dehumidification units is taught in design and construction of apparatus for production of freshwater and drinking water. Preparation of drinking water included ultraviolet disinfection, ozone treatment, and/or chlorine addition; activated carbon and ion exchange filters; and adding of fluorine, air/oxygen to refresh the water storage units, and minerals for taste and health provisions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2001
    Publication date: April 25, 2002
    Inventor: Abdul-Rahman Abdul-Kader M. Faqih
  • Patent number: 6360548
    Abstract: A refrigerated showcase has a front opening through which a consumer can view and access foodstuffs on display. The foodstuffs are cooled by coolant air introduced through a rear wall of the showcase. An air curtain directed downwardly at the front opening minimizes coolant air loss through the opening. Dual evaporator coils are arranged in housings on different sides of a plurality of fan motors. Condensate water produced by the dual evaporator coils is pumped to a primary dissipater pan arranged on top of the showcase. Because of the large amount of condensate water produced by the dual evaporator coils, a secondary dissipater pan is provided as a back-up system for any excess condensate water. A three-way solenoid valve diverts the excess condensate water to the secondary dissipater pan when the primary dissipater pan is full.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Inventor: Ramon Munoz Navarro
  • Patent number: 6360549
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for extracting liquid water from moist air using minimal energy input. The method comprises compressing moist air under conditions that foster the condensation of liquid water. The air can be decompressed under conditions that do not foster the vaporization of the condensate. The decompressed, dried air can be exchanged for a fresh charge of moist air and the process repeated. The liquid condensate can be removed for use. The apparatus can comprise a compression chamber having a variable internal volume. An intake port allows moist air into the compression chamber. An exhaust port allows dried air out of the compression chamber. A condensation device fosters condensation at the desired conditions. A condensate removal port allows liquid water to be removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventors: Barry L. Spletzer, Diane Schafer Callow, Lisa C. Marron, Jonathan R. Salton
  • Publication number: 20020029580
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2001
    Publication date: March 14, 2002
    Inventor: Abdul-Rahman Abdul Faqih
  • Publication number: 20020017107
    Abstract: An integrated compression based heating/cooling, humidification and mid or high efficiency heat recovery ventilation system is provided. The integrated system is a centralized apparatus that offers a very efficient method for heating/cooling with more winter and summer humidity control plus offering heat recovery ventilation in a structure having a regulated indoor temperature and specific ventilation/energy recovery rate. The heating and cooling section of the apparatus would most commonly be configured as a forced air geothermal or air-to-air heat pump. The heat recovery ventilation section of the apparatus will incorporate a heat recovery chamber complete with a primary passive cross flow heat recovery core. Plus, a secondary refrigeration based high efficiency reversible energy recovery evaporator/condenser coil. The integrated system will also incorporate a humidification system designed to operate during the winter heating season.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 1998
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventors: LOUIS J. BAILEY, RALPH HAAN
  • Patent number: 6332326
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and a method for eliminating the dampness or moisture included in the incoming atmosphere(or air) with high temperature and humidity from outside into the underground storage facilities by condensing the moisture to water-drops. The present invention suggests an underground facility having a dehumidification system comprising an inside wall depart from a wall of the underground facility to inside area with a distance, a buffering space formed between the wall and the inside wall, so that the inside wall divide the buffering space and a room of the underground facility and, a ventilation means by which air can be circulated between the room and the buffering space. According to the present invention, it is not need to install any air conditioner or dehumidifier needing a expensive cost for equipment at first and consuming much electrical power and maintenance cost in usage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2001
    Assignee: Himssen Esco Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shang Kooun Shim