With Removing Of Moisture Patents (Class 62/93)
  • Patent number: 6321551
    Abstract: An indoor ice rink facility is provided with a dehumidifier coil connected with the ice rink refrigeration coils in a secondary refrigerant loop and a reheat coil coupled with the primary refrigerant loop for maintain the ice sheet and controlling the humidity of the facility in a single system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventors: Thomas J. Backman, James F. Roomsburg
  • Patent number: 6311502
    Abstract: An apparatus which dries compressed air by cooling it substantially to around its dew point. The apparatus includes at least a first heat exchanger, for the direct cooling of the compressed air, selectively associated with a refrigeration unit by a first refrigeration circuit. The first heat exchanger is immersed in a chamber containing a cooling liquid suitable to act as a thermal mass to accumulate the excess thermal energy generated by the refrigeration unit with respect to the energy needed to take the compressed air to dew point temperature. The apparatus also includes a second heat exchanger also immersed in the cooling liquid and suitable to intervene mainly during a momentary de-activation of the refrigeration unit. The apparatus is intended to dry compressed air with a high thermal yield and to substantially correlate energy consumption to the quantity of compressed air actually required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: O.M.I. Srl
    Inventors: Filippo Trombin, Massaro Fabio, Capellari Giovanni Battista
  • Patent number: 6308521
    Abstract: The universal power generator utilizing the energy of wind, water stream, or a sea waves for manufacturing clean water from humid air is shown in FIG. 1 by the side 1 and front 11 views. The above generator contains the following units: swing system which are comprised of the pendulum system (54,56) sail blade systems (2,4,66,68). The sail system is formed of a plurality of blades (a, b, c, d) installed on two frames (4,66), which swing on two horizontal axles (6,8) which are disposed according to the wind direction or the flow of water movement by weather cock system. The tips of the lower blades can be used as paddles. If the upper blades (a) of the frame (4) and the lower blades (b) of the frame (66) receive any stream of energy then the other blades (c) of the frame (66) and lower blades (d) of the frame (4) move in manner like a weather cock at the same time. At the end of each swing, the blades change their action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Inventor: Leonid Eylman
  • Patent number: 6308525
    Abstract: A dehumidification apparatus which retains a high dehumidification ability is disclosed. The dehumidification apparatus comprises a container having at least one air inlet and at least one air outlet, and has an upper plate covering the container; a fan driven by a motor, which introduces air into the container from the air inlet and discharges air from the container through the air outlet so that air flow passing through the container is formed; and a holder for holding deliquescent dehumidification agent. The holder is contained in the container, which holder has at least one downwardly tapered compartment in which the deliquescent dehumidification agent is held. The deliquescent dehumidification agent held in the compartment contacts the air flow via through holes through which water and air can pass but the deliquescent dehumidification agent cannot pass, which through holes are formed in outer boundary of the compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Kankyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hidetoshi Ike, Yasushi Ishikawa, Kazunari Kakuta
  • Patent number: 6301907
    Abstract: An air cooling system including a first desiccant dryer, a second desiccant dryer connected in series in a flow path with the first desiccant dryer and a first air cooling unit connected in series in the flow path with the second desiccant dryer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignees: Parameter Generation & Co., International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Gerald E. McCollin, William Ross Hile
  • Patent number: 6301915
    Abstract: A dehumidification apparatus of the type using a deliquescent agent, with which the leakage of deliquesced liquid out of the apparatus is securely prevented is disclosed. In the dehumidification apparatus, an air inlet and an air outlet are formed in the upper plate of the container. At least one closing member which can close the air inlet and the air outlet is arranged above the air inlet and the air outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: Kankyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hidetoshi Ike, Yasushi Ishikawa, Kazunari Kakuta
  • Patent number: 6283738
    Abstract: It is an improvement of a package-type compressor that is used for the air compression, refrigerating and air conditioning The compressor is a double scroll compressor that a laps are formed on both sides of an end plate of orbiting scroll. A scroll compressor element is disposed above a motor and a dryer is disposed further above the scroll compressor element. A cooling fan is installed in the motor. A cooler that cools operation gas through the compressor element is disposed above the cooling fan. A partition plate defines a first flow passage for cooling the motor and the compressor element and a second flow passage for cooling the cooler. A first suction port sucking external air to the first and second flow passages is provided on a casing side wall locating in a direction extending from the motor shaft. A suction partitioning plate is attached to a casing sidewall opposite to the casing side wall having the first suction port. The second suction port is lower than the first suction port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuaki Shiinoki, Akira Suzuki, Isamu Kawano, Natsuki Kawabata
  • Publication number: 20010015072
    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 beat exchanger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Publication date: August 23, 2001
    Inventor: Gad Assaf
  • Patent number: 6250083
    Abstract: A dehumidifier has a main casing, a cover plate, a cool air fan, a hot air fan, two aluminum plates, a foamed plastics plate, a plurality of chiller chips, a rectifier, a temperature controller, a filter capacitor, and a voltage converter. The main casing has a round hole, a hot air vent, a plurality of water collecting apertures, two positioning plates, and an upper chamber. A cover is inserted in the round hole of the main casing. The hot air fan, the foamed plastics plate, and the aluminum plates are disposed in the main casing. Each aluminum plate has a plurality of radiation fins. The chiller chips are disposed on the aluminum plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Inventor: Ching-Lung Chou
  • Patent number: 6237354
    Abstract: An air conditioning system moisture control method and apparatus has a housing having a heat exchanger therein for removing heat and moisture from the air. The housing has a main air inlet thereinto and a main air outlet therefrom. Moisture is added to the inlet air and some of the moisture laden air is then directed from the housing through a secondary air outlet. A secondary air inlet draws outside air into the housing between the main air inlet and the heat exchanger. The moisture laden inlet air is then cooled and has moisture removed by passage through the heat exchanger. Additional moisture is then removed in the air conditioning outlet using a desiccant material, or the like, so that dew point of the air entering the heat exchanger housing is increased to improve moisture removal in the air conditioning system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventor: Charles J. Cromer
  • Patent number: 6237352
    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: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventor: Winton J. Goodchild
  • Patent number: 6230503
    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 (ideally isothermal to a humidity of 1.0, then adiabatic thereafter). 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: November 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventor: Barry L. Spletzer
  • Patent number: 6223543
    Abstract: A control system for a cooling system for reducing humidity levels in a gas such as ambient air is provided. The cooling unit includes at least one of a compressor and a chiller, and cooling coils are connected to the cooling unit. A fan blows the gas onto the cooling coils. A fan speed controller is connected to the fan and variably controls the speed of the fan. A dry bulb temperature sensor is in thermal communication with the gas and connected to the controller, and a moisture sensor is in communication with the gas and connected to the controller. The speed of the fan is determined by the controller based on signals received from the dry bulb temperature sensor and the moisture sensor. By varying the speed of the fan, the moisture content of the gas can be modified much more precisely than by conventional air conditioning methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Heat-Timer Corporation
    Inventor: David Sandelman
  • Patent number: 6220039
    Abstract: A method of controlling humidity within a space, where the space communicates with humidity control equipment. The method comprises determining a dew-point temperature within the space, and comparing the dew-point temperature to a predetermined desired dew-point temperature. The humidity control equipment is then controlled based upon the difference between the dew-point temperature and the predetermined desired dew-point temperature. The humidity control equipment can be a humidifier, and the dew-point temperature can be determined by sensing the temperature and humidity within the space, or by sensing the temperature and humidity within a duct, such as a return air duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy J. Kensok, Jeffrey R. Meyer
  • Patent number: 6209337
    Abstract: A portable water purification and collection system includes a cabinet member having an interior chamber defined by a plurality of side walls, one of which has a vent thereon. Received within the interior chamber and adjacent the vent is a fan for inducing air flow from the atmosphere to the cabinet interior. Between the fan and the vent is an electrostatic air filter for removing particulates from the air as well as a condenser for producing condensate therefrom. The resulting condensate drips into a collection reservoir and then to an ultraviolet light unit that destroys microorganisms within the condensate. From the ultraviolet light unit, the condensate flows to a main reservoir from which it may be dispensed to an external container via a spigot mounted to a cabinet side wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Inventor: William F. Edwards
  • Patent number: 6202424
    Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide a compression system to effectively compress contaminated gas containing water and other corrosive substances (natural gas) without suffering any adverse effects caused by toxic substances, including impurities, and which includes a path which heats the compressor using gas with a low dew-point temperature, such as water free gas or purified gas from outside the system, that is substantially free of water, or discharged gas after having been compressed by the compressor, a separator provided upstream of the suction section of the compressor, which separates water and the like from natural gas by cooling and condensation, and a dew-point maintaining arrangement for maintaining the discharged temperature of gas from the compressor above the dew-point temperature of the compressed gas when compressing natural gas from which water has been separated by the separator and characterized in that, when direct compression of the actual gas (contaminated gas) is necessar
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: Mayekawa Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshiro Hattori, Fumihiko Kaneko
  • Patent number: 6185943
    Abstract: A system and method for providing conditioned air to the interior space of a building includes separate dehumidification and sensible cooling functions. The separate dehumidification allows for much higher supply air temperatures, preferably within about 10° F. to about 15° F. of the air temperature of the building space. Low-velocity air distribution through a ceiling plenum or a vent into the space allows for very low fan static pressures, which greatly reduces fan energy usage compared to conventional ducted systems. The low static pressures and high supply-air temperatures allow the use of existing drop ceiling construction with little modification. Optional return air channels between an inner glazing and an outer glazing of exterior windows can virtually eliminate heating loads at the building perimeter, which virtually eliminates the need for simultaneous heating and cooling. The result is a major improvement in energy efficiency and comfort while reducing installed cost of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: Work Smart Energy Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: William L. Kopko
  • Patent number: 6178762
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a desiccant/evaporative cooling system for providing cool and dry air to an enclosed structure is disclosed. The system includes a desiccant chamber, at least one evaporative cooler, and a heat exchanger. The desiccant chamber intermittently receives and drys a first airstream from the enclosed structure to produce a second airstream. The evaporative cooler(s) receive and cool the second airstream to produce a third airstream at a temperature below a dew point for an ambient airstream. The heat exchanger uses the third airstream for absorbing heat from the ambient airstream to produce a fourth airstream before the fourth airstream is forced into the enclosed structure. Condensate is removed from the ambient airstream on the dry side surface of the heat exchanger. In another embodiment, a method for conditioning an ambient airstream in order to provide cool and dry air to an enclosed structure is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Ethicool Air Conditioners, Inc.
    Inventor: Arthur M. Flax
  • Patent number: 6170271
    Abstract: A fresh air unit. The unit comprises: a housing having an airstream flowing therethrough; a pre-cooling portion, and dehumidification portion. The pre-cooling portion is located within the housing and reduces the temperature and specific humidity of a gas in the airstream to a target zone on a psychrometric chart. The dehumidification portion is also located in the housing downstream of the pre-cooling portion. The dehumidification portion removes a selected amount of moisture from the gas and reheats the gas a selected amount of sensible heat gain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Assignee: American Standard Inc.
    Inventor: Brian T. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 6168086
    Abstract: A dehumidifier comprising hot and cold water supply pipes interconnected to a showerhead in a bathroom, a hot heat exchanger interconnected to the hot water supply pipe, fan means to pull air from an adjacent room across the hot air exchanger and into the bathroom, and an exhaust fan to remove air from the bathroom
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Inventor: Aaron Tanenbaum
  • Patent number: 6164373
    Abstract: A sample conditioning apparatus that removes moisture from a saturated gaseous sample and that utilizes the removed moisture for evaporative cooling within the apparatus is described. The sample conditioning apparatus includes a heat exchanger, a condensate drain trap, and a bypass line that directs a portion of the sample to a cooling medium inlet of the heat exchanger. The apparatus also includes a direction changing fitting to direct the condensate from the heat exchanger into a condensate drain trap. The direction changing fitting is coupled to a sample outlet of the heat exchanger and to the condensate drain trap. The direction changing fitting is also coupled to a membrane type moisture separator to prevent any liquid carrying over through to the gas analyzers. The moisture separator is also coupled to a first end of a bypass line, and to a sample line extending between the separator to the gas analyzers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Eric F. Perry, Ray L. Armstrong, Robert Alan Head
  • Patent number: 6161312
    Abstract: A drying machine includes a first chamber, a second chamber, a first control device mounted in the first chamber and including a first main condenser, a first secondary condenser, a first main evaporator, and a first secondary evaporator, a second control device mounted in the second chamber and including a second main condenser, a second secondary condenser, a second main evaporator, and a second secondary evaporator, and a common compressor supplying a refrigerant to the first control device and to the second control device. In such a manner, when the first control device performs a cycle to increase the temperature in the first chamber, the second control device performs a cycle to decrease the temperature in the second chamber, and when the first control device performs a cycle to decrease the temperature in the first chamber, the second control device performs a cycle to increase the temperature in the second chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventor: Pen-Ta Yang
  • Patent number: 6158242
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and a method for efficiently and cost-effectively removing moisture from pressurized gas stream to any required low level. The invention adopts an irregular matrix of finned pipes to remove the moisture as liquid and solid deposits. Clogging is completely eliminated in the freezer and heat recuperator of this apparatus. The dew-point of the dried gas may be reduced to under -100.degree. F. The method and the apparatus provided by the present invention are universally applicable to the dehydration of all kind of gases, and, hence, can replace all the three major dehydration methods and dehydrators currently in the market, i.e., the solid desiccant absorption, the liquid desiccant absorption, and the refrigeration dehydration. No BTEX pollutant is emitted to the atmosphere when applied to natural gas dehydration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventor: Yingzhong Lu
  • Patent number: 6158226
    Abstract: A trapping device is presented to improve production efficiency of vacuum processing devices. The trapping device comprises an exhaust path for evacuating process gas from a hermetic chamber through a vacuum pump; a regeneration path disposed adjacent to the exhaust path and comprising a regeneration means; not less than two trap sections communicable either with the exhaust path or with the regeneration path; and switching means for transposing the trap sections either to the exhaust path or to the regeneration path. A trapping operation and a regeneration operation can be performed concurrently respectively in the exhaust path and the regeneration path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Assignees: Ebara Corporation, CKD Corporation
    Inventors: Nobuharu Noji, Norihiko Nomura, Tetsuro Sugiura, Yuji Matsuoka
  • Patent number: 6128909
    Abstract: An environmental control system provides for two stage compression and expansion of a bleed air within a cooling cycle, while allowing for a separately driven fan to handle ambient air as a heat sink. The system comprises a plurality of compressors capable of compressing a water vapor bearing air to produce a compressed air. A reheater is capable of cooling the compressed air. A condenser is in flow communication with the reheater, with the condenser being capable of condensing the water vapor. A water extractor is in flow communication with and intermediate of the condenser and the reheater. A plurality of turbines are in flow communication with and downstream of the reheater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: AlliedSignal Inc.
    Inventor: Michel A. Jonqueres
  • Patent number: 6085529
    Abstract: A heat exchanger comprising a precooler and reheater core adjacent a chiller core, first heat transfer passages extending through both cores through which incoming air passes in a first direction, second heat transfer passages extending through the chiller core through which coolant passes in heat exchange relationship with incoming air and perpendicular to the first direction, and third heat transfer passages extending through the precooler and reheater core through which cooled air from the chiller core passes in heat exchange relationship with the incoming air and perpendicular to the first direction. A manifold contiguous with both cores conducts chilled air from the chiller core to the third set of heat transfer passages.Incoming air is chilled in the chiller core and thereafter exchanges heat with the incoming air in the precooler and reheater core to precool the incoming air to form water droplets and to raise the temperature of the chilled air to a usable temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: American Precision Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy J. Galus, David F. Fijas
  • Patent number: 6035649
    Abstract: A method for controlling the evaporator temperature of an air conditioner as a function of the outside dew point, in which the dew point temperature of the intake air drawn in by the air conditioner to air-condition an interior and the blown air temperature setpoint that is associated with one or more variably presettable interior temperature setpoints is determined for the intake air to be blown out into the interior. At the beginning of each cooling cycle, a determination is made as to whether the evaporator is wet or dry. The evaporator temperature is then adjusted to a setpoint that is at most approximately as high as the dew point temperature and otherwise is approximately as high as the blown air temperature setpoint. This is for cases within presettable limits, with a wet evaporator and a blown air temperature setpoint that is above the intake air dew point temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventors: Wolfgang Straub, Herbert Wieszt
  • Patent number: 6029461
    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 there over 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: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: John M. Zakryk
  • Patent number: 6029464
    Abstract: A dehumidifying apparatus of an air conditioner and a control method thereof by which a heating/dehumidifying operation is performed when a room temperature is lowered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yong-Hyun Kil, Sang-Bom Park
  • Patent number: 6021644
    Abstract: A reverse cycle refrigeration apparatus for air dehumidification is employed having an evaporator and a condenser and employing first and a second heat transfer coils for this purpose. Both coils are positioned in the air stream. In a first cycle the second coil functions as the evaporator for cooling and dehumidifying the air stream and accumulating frost and the first coil acts as the condenser, warming the cooled and dehumidified air stream and thawing frost having accumulated on it. In a second cycle the first coil acts as the evaporator, cooling and dehumidifying the air and providing the heat for defrost and the second coil acts as the condenser, thereby being defrosted. Dampers are provided for stopping air flow over the defrosting coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Inventors: Roland Ares, Nes Lakdawala
  • Patent number: 5983651
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a dryer for compressed air. The dryer employs two evaporators disposed in the compressed air pathway. The dryer uses a three-way valve to control the orientation of the compressed air current. A heat-exchanger is included in the cold-producing medium system for avoiding ice blockage of the compressed air outlet. The dryer provides the high-pressure cold-producing medium at a front portion with more potential cooling, so that the evaporators create a lower temperature for drying the compressed air better. A four-way valve is provided to control the two evaporators working alternately, so that the high-temperature cold-producing medium is directed into the iced idle evaporator by a solenoid valve, to melt the ice rapidly and drain it from the system immediately through an automatic drain valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Chin-Fu Huang
  • Patent number: 5979170
    Abstract: An apparatus for producing dried and dehumidified cooling air for bulk stored grains and other produce from which moisture evaporates comprising a multiplicity of narrow elongate beds 2 of desiccant between which a multiplicity of heat exchange channels 3 providing heat exchange surfaces 4 in contact with each bed 2 of desiccant are provided. Air to be treated is passed through the beds 2 of desiccant while secondary air is forced through the heat exchange channels 3 to cool and remove the heat of sorption collected by the desiccant from the air being treated. desiccant can be regenerated by passing heated air through the beds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: Victoria University of Technology
    Inventor: Graham R Thorpe
  • Patent number: 5934084
    Abstract: A dry operation is performed during a room-cooling mode of an air conditioner by performing a pattern of heating, cooling, and blowing-only steps. The pattern of steps is controlled as a function of sensed room temperature to ensure that the room temperature is kept within a predetermined comfort range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Seung-Kwan Lee
  • Patent number: 5913360
    Abstract: A heat exchanger for dehumidifying an air stream including heat conducting plates which serve as the heat exchange surface for precooling and reheating the air during the dehumidification process. Cooling conduits are positioned in a plane parallel to a plane defined by the heat conducting plates, such that cooling occurs in the intake air stream and heating occurs in the exhaust air stream, and the air flow is redirected in a small plenum chamber located at an end of the channels adjacent to the cooling conduits. A system is also provided which includes a plurality of heat exchangers joined edge corner to edge corner sharing a common cooling coil and a common plenum chamber. The heat exchange system includes a fan for conducting air through the heat exchangers and through the cooling coil, a manifold assembly which includes an intake damper, exhaust damper, and baffle dampers, and a cooling damper disposed in a condensate collection chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Assignee: Nautica Dehumidifiers, Inc.
    Inventor: Walter Stark
  • Patent number: 5911747
    Abstract: A controller for an HVAC system incoporates humidity and carbon monoxide measurements in its control of the system. System cycling may be inhibited by high humidity. A portion of the system may be turned off by high carbon monoxide concentration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Assignee: Pentech Energy Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Dale A. Gauthier
  • Patent number: 5896751
    Abstract: An air conditioner having an improved humidifying portion to humidify air in a room is provided. The humidifying portion includes a humidifying member having hygroscopicity and gas permeability, a first air flow passage for taking in air from the outdoors, passing the air through the humidifying member, allowing the humidifying member to absorb moisture included in the air for drying, and letting out the air outdoors, and a second air flow passage for taking in air from the room, passing the air through the humidifying member while heating the air, allowing the moisture absorbed by the humidifying member to evaporate and humidify the air and letting out the air into the room. Thus, only a single air intake opening for humidifying indoor air is necessary on the indoor side, the structure of the air conditioner can be simplified and compact, which makes easier the attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Eiji Wakizaka, Yoshiharu Shinobu, Hiroyuki Iida, Miwa Kamii, Michiaki Oshikane, Akira Ohtsuki, Takashi Kishimoto
  • Patent number: 5894881
    Abstract: An electrical circuit for controlling the operation of a fan cooled aftercooler receiving pressurized air from a compressor located in a locomotive. The circuit includes a motor for driving the fan of the aftercooler, an electrical relay comprising a coil and contacts operated by the coil, and a temperature sensitive switch connected in electrical series with the coil. The contacts of the relay are connected in electrical series with the motor. The temperature sensitive switch is effective to open the circuit of the coil and thereby open the contacts to stop operation of the fan when ambient temperature falls to or below freezing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Assignee: Westinghouse Air Brake Company
    Inventors: Daniel G. Wagner, Walter E. Goettel, Brian L. Cunkelman
  • Patent number: 5893408
    Abstract: A heat exchanger for cooling and/or dehumidifying a stream of air which eliminates the need for a large air diffusing plenum chamber. Heat conducting channel walls serve as the heat exchange surface for precooling and reheating air during the dehumidification process. The cooling conduits laterally intersect the airflow channels in order to force cooling to occur both in the intake and exhaust airflow channels, and the airflow is redirected 180.degree. in a small plenum chamber located at an end of the channels adjacent the cooling conduits. Adjustable dampers may be added for additional control of airflow in and out of intake and exhaust ports for the purpose of regulating the cooling and dehumidifying processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1999
    Assignee: Nautica Dehumidifiers, Inc.
    Inventor: Walter Stark
  • Patent number: 5893271
    Abstract: A cooling system with super heating control for a vapor degreasing apparatus is provided. The cooling system consists of a single condenser receiving a substantially gaseous refrigerant and producing a substantially liquid refrigerant. A first chilling coil evaporates at least a portion of the substantially liquid refrigerant which results in heat absorption by the first chilling coil at a first absorption rate. A second chilling coil evaporates at least a portion of the substantially liquid refrigerant resulting in heat absorption by the second chilling coil at a second absorption rate, and a desuperheating system, connected to the first and second chilling coils and the condenser, controlling the temperature of the substantially gaseous refrigerant generated by the first and second chilling coils and received by the condenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1999
    Assignee: Detrex Corporation
    Inventor: Christopher J. Brink
  • Patent number: 5890368
    Abstract: A new method for defrosting a dehumidifier. The new method minimizes the formation of liquid "slugs" which can occur during normal defrosting and which can damage the compressor, and also makes the operation of the dehumidifier more efficient. In the new method, defrosting takes place with the fan running to draw warm, room air over the condenser to warm the refrigerant passing through it in reverse, to thus minimize the formation of liquid "slugs". The warm air however is prevented by baffles from passing over the evaporator where it would undesirearably pick up moisture from the melting ice on the evaporator. An apparatus for carrying out the above method is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Inventor: Ness Lakdawala
  • Patent number: 5884492
    Abstract: An air conditioning system and method whereby water sprays are arranged and modulated in air washers from recirculated water and a cooled or non-cooled central water source to provide precise psychometric (dry bulb temperature, relative humidity, dew point temperature and specific humidity) conditions in the space being conditioned while conserving energy by reducing the cooling load, reducing the pumping horsepower load, and eliminating reheat under all weather conditions. This system also reduces maintenance and operating costs by allowing chemical treatment, makeup water, water overflow, and water filtration to be provided in a central location even with multiple air washers and water chillers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: AC Corporation
    Inventors: Henry Arnold Zwicky, Roger Harold Lamar, Allen James Bradley, Tony Gray Peele
  • Patent number: 5882543
    Abstract: Methods and compositions for dehydrating, passivating and coating HVAC and refrigeration systems having fluid enclosures are provided. The methods include adding a composition including organometalloid and/or organometallic compounds to the system, allowing the compositions to react with water in the system and sealing the system. The organometallic compounds include at least one alkoxy, carboxy and/or enoxy functional group bound to the metal element within the compound. The organometalloid compounds include at least one enoxy functional group bound to the metalloid element within the compound. Compositions for sealing such systems are also provided. The sealing compositions also include one or more organometallic compounds having at least one enoxy, carboxy and/or alkoxy group and/or organometalloid compounds which include at least three hydrolyzable groups, at least one of which is an enoxy group.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Assignee: Silicon Resources, Inc.
    Inventors: William R. Peterson, Renee E. Berman, David Giaccio
  • Patent number: 5865033
    Abstract: According to a method of cooling gases, in particular air which is drawn in through a compressor, in a compressed air arrangement the gas flows alternately through at least one of a plurality of refrigerating driers (5, 6) equipped with heat exchangers (15, 16). The gas drawn in is cooled by means of a heat exchanger (15, 16) to below 0.degree. C. over a cooling section. Whilst the gas is being cooled, the ice produced in the refrigerating drier (5, 6) is defrosted by at least one of the refrigerating driers (5, 6) or in the further refrigerating drier(s) (5, 6) by the supply of a hot refrigerant vapour. The liquid refrigerant flowing out of the refrigerating drier (5, 6) to be defrosted is introduced into a pressure and/or connection line (17, 18) of the refrigerant circuit between the inlet of the heat exchanger (15, 16) used for cooling the gas drawn in and the condenser (59), which is arranged upstream of this (these) heat exchangers, or the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Inventor: Ewald Gossler
  • Patent number: 5857344
    Abstract: Atmospheric water extractor apparatus and method including a compressor an evaporator and one or more removable reservoirs for collecting drinkable water that has condensed on the evaporator.First and second chambers are provided separated by free-floating piston for alternately condensing refrigerant gas in the first chamber and storing refrigerant liquid in the second chamber, and condensing refrigerant gas in the second chamber, and storing refrigerant liquid in the first chamber. Lines inter-connecting the compressor, evaporator, condenser and the first and second chambers of the gas piston cylinder enable the compressor to alternately introduce refrigerant gas into the first chamber and move refrigerant liquid into the evaporative means by displacement of the free-floating piston and introduce refrigerant gas into the second chamber and move refrigerant liquid into the evaporator by first displacement of the free-floating piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Inventor: Richard A. Rosenthal
  • Patent number: 5845505
    Abstract: A heat exchanger comprising a precooler and reheater core adjacent a chiller core, first heat transfer passages extending through both cores through which incoming air passes in a first direction, second heat transfer passages extending through the chiller core through which coolant passes in heat exchange relationship with incoming air and perpendicular to the first direction, and third heat transfer passages extending through the precooler and reheater core through which cooled air from the chiller core passes in heat exchange relationship with the incoming air and perpendicular to the first direction. A conduit conducts chilled air from the chiller core to the third set of heat transfer passages.Incoming air is chilled in the chiller core and thereafter exchanges heat with the incoming air in the precooler and reheater core to precool the incoming air to form water droplets and to raise the temperature of the chilled air to a usable temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Assignee: American Precision Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy J. Galus, David F. Fijas
  • Patent number: 5816315
    Abstract: A heat exchanger for dehumidifying a stream of air including heat conducting channel walls which serve as the heat exchange surface for precooling and reheating air during the dehumidification process. Cooling conduits are positioned in a plane parallel to a plane defined by the heat conducting walls, such that cooling occurs both in the intake and exhaust airstreams, and the airflow is redirected in a small plenum chamber located at an end of the channels adjacent the cooling conduits. A system is also provided which includes a plurality of heat exchangers in series sharing a common cooling coil and a common plenum chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Assignee: Nautica Dehumidifiers, Inc.
    Inventor: Walter Stark
  • Patent number: 5799728
    Abstract: Apparatus for dehumidifying air comprising two cooling coils operable in a first mode for circulating coolant at a temperature above 32.degree. F. and below the dew point of the air through one of the coils and for circulating coolant at a temperature below 32.degree. F. through the other, and operable in a second mode wherein the circulation of coolant is reversed. In one version of the apparatus, shown in FIG. 1, air flows continuously in one direction first through one coil and then the other; in another version of the apparatus, shown in FIG. 3, the direction of air flow is also reversed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Assignee: MEMC Electric Materials, Inc.
    Inventor: Bryan Blume
  • Patent number: 5797272
    Abstract: Desiccant brine is heated and diluted in an air drier by coming into contact with air to be cooled in an evaporative cooler but is regenerated by dewatering in a vacuum chamber, from which it is discharged first into a sump, and then back into the vacuum chamber. Both the desiccant brine and air are heated in the air drier and the hot brine when in the vacuum chamber has a temperature above atmospheric, which provides a higher vapor pressure and its water is readily vaporized. The higher efficiency reduces the amount of heat input required, and thereby reduces the extent of heat exchanger requirement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Assignee: F F Seeley Nominees Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Robert Wilton James
  • Patent number: 5794453
    Abstract: An improved method and apparatus is disclosed for removing condensable material from a gas. The gas is caused to flow in series through a chiller for cooling the gas and condensing the condensable material from the gas, then through a separator to separate the condensate from the gas, and then passing the gas through a reheater to reheat the gas. A predetermined charge of refrigerant is passed in a closed cycle through the chiller to cool the gas by absorbing the heat from the gas and evaporating, then the gaseous refrigerant is compressed by a compression unit having an electric drive means in which an amount of energy is added to the gaseous refrigerant. The hot, pressurized, gaseous refrigerant is then passed through an auxiliary condenser sized to remove the energy that was added to the refrigerant by the compression unit at no load conditions, then the refrigerant is passed through the reheater to further condense the refrigerant and to transfer heat to the exiting gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Assignee: Flair Corporation
    Inventor: James W. Barnwell
  • Patent number: RE37464
    Abstract: A dehumidifier unit for pre-conditioning air delivered to a multiplicity of separate refrigeration air conditioner units and especially ductless systems where the compressor-condenser unit is separate from the fan-coil unit, and assisted by heat pipe transfer of heat from air dehumidified through a desiccant wheel and by heat of compression from the condenser of one compressor-condenser unit, and with a heater to maintain the temperature of regeneration air through the wheel, one dehumidifier unit pre-conditioning air for a multiplicity of refrigeration air conditioners or fan-coil units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Inventor: Milton Meckler