Gas Flow Rate Modified Patents (Class 95/22)
  • Patent number: 11517849
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for controlling the generation of gas occurring in a generator via a filtering membrane (M). The filtering membrane (M) is fed at the entry with a gas pushed by a compressor (C), and is capable of separating gaseous components of the gas at the exit. The method has the steps of detecting the gas pressure at a detection point (SP1) at the membrane entry and/or at the exit (M); adjusting the regime of the compressor (C) so that the detected pressure is maintained at a reference pressure, here called Pref]. Advantages: less wear out for the compressor and extended life cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Assignee: MICROPROGEL S.R.L.
    Inventor: Valter Gaffo
  • Patent number: 11229895
    Abstract: A chemical reaction method includes preparing a chemical reaction apparatus including a horizontal flow reactor partitioned into multiple chambers by multiple partition plates. A liquid content horizontally flows with an unfilled space provided thereabove. a microwave generator and a waveguide that transmits microwaves to the unfilled space are also included. The reactor is inclined such that, in each of the chambers, a weir height on an inlet side is higher than a weir height on an outlet side by at least an overflow depth at the partition plate on the outlet side. The content is flowed over each of the multiple partition plates inside the reactor. The content flowing inside the reactor is irradiated with microwaves. The inclination angle of the reactor is changed in each of the chambers so that a weir height on an inlet side is higher than a weir height on an outlet side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2022
    Assignee: MICROWAVE CHEMICAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Akinori Ishizuka, Iwao Yoshino, Kunitaka Momota, Yasunori Tsukahara
  • Patent number: 11202985
    Abstract: A facility and method for membrane permeation treatment of a feed gas flow containing at least methane and carbon dioxide that includes a compressor, a gas analyser, at least one valve, and first, second, third, and fourth membrane separation units for separation of CO2 from CH4 to permeates enriched in CO2 and retentates enriched in CH4, respectively. A pressure of the feed gas flow is adjusted according to a CH4 concentration of the second retentate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2021
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide Société Anonyme Pour L'Etude Et L'Exploitation Des Procedes Georges Claude
    Inventors: Jean-Marc Chareyre, Veronique Grabie, Golo Zick
  • Patent number: 11072551
    Abstract: A point-of-use water filtration system having an idle mode and a filtration mode, the water filtration system including a feed water inlet, a pump in fluid communication with the feed water inlet via a feed water line, and a semi-permeable membrane having an upstream side and a downstream side. A first portion of the upstream side is in fluid communication with a membrane inlet and a second portion of the upstream side is in fluid communication with the concentrate outlet, and the downstream side is in fluid communication with a permeate outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2021
    Assignee: A. O. SMITH CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hai-Feng Zhang, David J. Averbeck, Zhaoshan Cheng
  • Patent number: 10968585
    Abstract: The invention relates to a vacuum installation for industrial application, the installation comprising a first vessel having a first gas inlet for allowing a gaseous substance into the first vessel and a first outlet for depletion of a material, a second vessel having a second inlet for aspirating a quantity of material and a second gas outlet for depletion of the gaseous substance, wherein the gaseous substance comprises a vapour generated from the material, a storage chamber for storing the quantity of material, the storage chamber having a third inlet, wherein at least the first vessel communicates with an interior of the storage chamber via the first outlet and the third inlet; and a vacuum pump located in between the first vessel and the second vessel, and operated to lower the pressure in the second vessel, thereby allowing the material to be sucked into the second vessel via the second liquid inlet to an equilibrium level between the material and the gaseous substance, the vacuum pump being further ope
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2021
    Assignee: Koks Group B.V.
    Inventor: Nic Spierdijk
  • Patent number: 10712753
    Abstract: The invention relates to a control method for a secondary dust removal system in which a pipe network connects an induced draft fan to at least two suction points. The pipe network comprises a controllable exhaust air flap for each suction point, the position of said flap influencing the volumetric flow rate at the suction point. A mathematical model of the pipe network allows the method to energy-efficiently control the exhaust air flaps and the induced draft fan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2020
    Assignee: SMS GROUP GMBH
    Inventors: Joerg Thomasberger, Volker Trappmann, Malte Braam, Felix Schuppert
  • Patent number: 10262864
    Abstract: Point-of-use enrichment of gas mixtures for semiconductor structure fabrication, and systems for providing point-of-use enrichment of gas mixtures, are described herein. In an example, a system for fabricating a semiconductor structure includes a process chamber for processing a substrate of a semiconductor structure. A gas supply is coupled to the process chamber. A point-of-use gas enrichment module is coupled to the gas supply. The point-of-use gas enrichment module is configured to concentrate a first gas composition to provide a second gas composition to the gas supply for the process chamber. The second gas composition has a relative amount of a hydride species greater than a relative amount of corresponding hydride species in the first gas composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Assignee: SunPower Corporation
    Inventors: Taiqing Qiu, Glyn Jeremy Reynolds, Xiao Bai
  • Patent number: 10203159
    Abstract: A heat exchanger assembly includes a plurality of first and second fluid passages defined by a pair of opposing first fluid passage walls and a plurality of first fluid diverters disposed between the first fluid passages walls. The second fluid passages are defined by a pair of opposing second fluid passage walls and a plurality of second fluid diverters disposed between the second fluid passage walls. An ejector is integrated into the heat exchanger assembly. The ejector includes: an integral ejector passage, wherein the integral ejector passage is a first fluid passage; a primary inlet configured to receive a hot fluid; an outlet nozzle configured to eject the hot fluid; a secondary inlet configured to receive a cold fluid, wherein the secondary inlet is in fluid communication with a second fluid passage; and a mixing section in fluid communication with the outlet nozzle and the secondary inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2019
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Zager, Roberto J. Perez, Michael Doe
  • Patent number: 9855544
    Abstract: An air separation module including a canister defining an interior chamber and having a first port at a first end and a second port at a second end, the canister configured to permit fluid to pass from the first port to the second port through the interior chamber, a first end cap located proximal to the first end of the canister and configured to releasably retain the first end of the canister, a second end cap located proximal to the second end of the canister and configured to releasably retain the second end of the canister, and a collar movably configured on the second end of the canister and configured to move from a first position to a second position, wherein the first position defines an engagement between the collar and the second end cap, and the second position defines a disengagement between the collar and the second end cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: HAMILTON SUNDSTRAND CORPORATION
    Inventors: Frederick Peacos, III, Corey E. Rekow
  • Patent number: 9452381
    Abstract: An air separation system is provided that includes at least one air separation module having a first end and a second end and at least one mounting assembly removably connected the at least one air separation module and configured to mount the at least one air separation module in an aircraft. The at least one mounting assembly includes a first end cap removably connected to the first end of the at least one air separation module, a second end cap removably connected to the second end of the at least one air separation module, and at least one bracket configured to removably connect one of the first end cap and the second end cap to an aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2016
    Assignee: HAMILTON SUNDSTRAND CORPORATION
    Inventors: Frederick Peacos, III, Kenneth Crawford
  • Patent number: 9360411
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a containment system having a primary air inlet and an alternate inlet. In one embodiment, a containment system includes a housing configured to retain a main filter, the housing having a primary air inlet and an access door configured to access an interior of the housing. The access door has an alternate airflow inlet. In another embodiment, an air distribution plate includes a front surface having a first edge and an opposing second edge, wherein the front surface is configured to allow air to pass therethrough. Flow resistance through the front surface is greater proximate the second edge relative the first edge. In yet another embodiment, a method for testing a filter includes closing a damper and flowing air into a containment housing through an inlet formed though an access door and across an air distribution plate to a filter, and testing the filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Assignee: CAMFIL USA, INC.
    Inventors: Keith G Woolard, Larry E Bland, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9205348
    Abstract: A vapor recovery apparatus has a first vessel forming a column with upper and lower ends. Liquid, such as oil containing gas enters the bottom of the first column and flows op to a liquid outlet. Heat is applied to the rising oil, wherein the oil foams. Gas escapes into the upper end. The foam flows into a second column and along a roughened surface. The bubbles in the foam break apart, releasing the gas. The oil flows down the second column to an outlet. A compressor may be used to withdraw the gas and provide hot compressed gas to beat the rising oil in the first column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2015
    Inventor: Randy Swan
  • Patent number: 8986431
    Abstract: A purification arrangement for a gas pipeline system includes a pressure vessel and at least a modular separator assembly and a modular filter assembly in the interior of the pressure vessel. A gas flow may be established through the pressure vessel, and the gas may pass through the modular separator and filter assemblies to remove liquid and/or solid particulates from the gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Pall Corporation
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Cabourdin, Olivier Trifilieff, Pierre Blanc, Joseph Samaha
  • Publication number: 20150068396
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to apparatuses and methods for pollution abatement. One embodiment provide methods of eliminating pollutants from an incoming optionally high temperature gaseous effluent stream, each method comprising directing the gaseous effluent stream sequentially through: (a) a sufficient volume of an aqueous liquid in a thermal shock vessel, such that the temperature of the gaseous effluent stream exiting the volume of liquid is in a range of about 5° C. to about 30° C., said liquid acting as filter to remove water, particles, soluble organic species, or a combination thereof from the gaseous stream; and one or more of: (b) an electronic bombardment module wherein the gaseous stream is ionized, forms molecular agglomerates, or both; (c) a magnetic rearrangement module, operating with a magnetic field in a range of about 0.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventor: JUAN JOSE CALDERON
  • Publication number: 20150059439
    Abstract: Certain embodiments described herein are directed to chromatography systems that include a microfluidic device configured to provide three-way switching or switching between three or more inputs or outputs. The microfluidic device can be fluidically coupled to one or more switching valves to provide for selective control of fluid flow in the chromatography system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventor: Andrew Tipler
  • Publication number: 20150047502
    Abstract: A device for separating gases comprises the following components: a source for the gases and flow adjustment means; a membrane unit for the production of a permeate gas and a retentate gas, one of which is the product gas; purity determining means for the product gas; a first control unit for the device; a retentate control system and a product gas pressure measurement, whereby the source has a second control unit for the flow adjustment means as a function of a target value of the gases and the first control unit is connected to the second control unit and to the retentate control system, whereby the first control unit can determine the target value and can control the retentate control system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Inventor: Peter Jozef Heirman
  • Publication number: 20150040757
    Abstract: A method of providing airflow management in a substrate production tool includes providing a first mechanism coupling the substrate production tool to a fan filter unit. The fan filter unit provides filtered air to the substrate production tool. A second mechanism couples the substrate production tool to a reduced pressure exhaust mechanism. The reduced pressure exhaust mechanism provides an exhaust for excess gas flow within the substrate production tool. A substrate process area of the substrate production tool is maintained at a lower pressure than a pressure of a substrate transfer section of the substrate production tool. The substrate process area maintains a higher pressure than a pressure of the reduced pressure exhaust mechanism. The substrate transfer section maintains a higher pressure than the pressure of the reduced pressure exhaust mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2014
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventor: Eric H. Lenz
  • Patent number: 8951333
    Abstract: A purification arrangement for a gas pipeline system includes a pressure vessel and at least first and second purification assemblies in the interior of the pressure vessel. An openable/closable barrier is positioned in the pressure vessel between the first and second purification assemblies. A gas flow may be established through the pressure vessel, and the gas may pass through the first purification assembly, the open barrier, and the second purification assembly to remove liquid and/or solid particulates from the gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Pall Corporation
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Cabourdin, Olivier Trifilieff, Pierre Blanc, Joseph Samaha
  • Patent number: 8926731
    Abstract: A system and method of controlling a flow of steam in a steam generator having a heater for heating fluid in a vessel is disclosed. The method includes: delivering the steam from the steam generator to a first side of a filtering membrane; receiving purified steam from a second side of the filtering membrane, the purified steam having a steam flow rate; determining at least one coefficient of a substantially linear mathematical relationship between the steam flow rate of the purified steam and duty cycle; and configuring the steam generator to control: the duty cycle of the heater based on the determined at least one coefficient and a target steam flow rate; and/or the target steam flow rate based on the at least one coefficient and a target duty cycle of the heater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: RASIRC
    Inventors: Jeffrey J. Spiegelman, Richard D. Blethen
  • Publication number: 20140373711
    Abstract: A fluid trap apparatus includes an inlet configured to receive a flow of composite fluid into the apparatus. The composite fluid contains at least a first fluid and a second fluid. An outer wall defines an interior chamber. A flow diffuser is interposed within the interior chamber. The flow diffuser directs the flow of the composite fluid to circulate through the interior chamber. The first fluid and the second fluid separate as the composite fluid circulates through the interior chamber. A method of separating a first fluid from a second fluid includes introducing a flow of composite fluid into a separate chamber. A pressure gradient is created within the separation chamber. A flow diffuser is interposed in a flow path between an inlet and an outlet. The flow diffuser directs the flow of the composite fluid within the separation chamber. The first fluid and the second fluid are separated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2013
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Applicant: CareFusion Corporation
    Inventors: David E. Cassidy, Eric E. May, Garrett Austin Sheffer
  • Publication number: 20140366721
    Abstract: A process and system for ventilation of welding smoke including an air passage configured to receive smoke from a welding environment, wherein said air passage has an inlet and an outlet and said inlet is positioned adjacent to said welding environment. The system also includes a filter coupled to the air passage, wherein the filter comprises filter media that exhibits a burst strength of up to 20? w.g., an initial resistance in the range of 0.3? w.g. to 1.5? w.g., an air flow in the range of 1,000 cubic feet per minute to 2,500 cubic feet per minute and a removal efficiency of greater than 50% for particles having a diameter of 0.3 ?m to 10.0 ?m.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2013
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventor: Leon ROY
  • Publication number: 20140283682
    Abstract: Methods and systems for predicting a filter lifetime include building a filter effectiveness history based on contaminant sensor information associated with a filter; determining a rate of filter consumption with a processor based on the filter effectiveness history; and determining a remaining filter lifetime based on the determined rate of filter consumption. Methods and systems for increasing filter economy include measuring contaminants in an internal and an external environment; determining a cost of a corrosion rate increase if unfiltered external air intake is increased for cooling; determining a cost of increased air pressure to filter external air; and if the cost of filtering external air exceeds the cost of the corrosion rate increase, increasing an intake of unfiltered external air.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2013
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hendrik F. Hamann, Levente I. Klein, Dennis G. Manzer, Fernando J. Marianno
  • Publication number: 20140251130
    Abstract: Various equipment and methods associated with providing a concentrated product gas are provided. In one embodiment, the equipment includes an input device first and second sieve tanks, a variable restrictor, and a controller. In one embodiment, the method includes: a) selecting a desired output setting for the concentrated product gas from a plurality of output settings, b) separating one or more adsorbable components from a pressurized source gaseous mixture via first and second sieve tanks in alternating and opposing pressurization and purging cycles to form the concentrated product gas, and c) selectively controlling a variable restrictor based at least in part on the desired output setting to selectively provide flow between the first and second sieve tanks such that the flow for at least one output setting is different from the flow for at least one other output setting in relation to corresponding pressurization cycles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2014
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicant: Invacare Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas B. Sprinkle, William J. Daniels, Thomas A. Drobnak, David G. Felty, Valentine A. Hodos, Martin J. Fabian, Samuel J. Shelnutt, Jonathon R. Olszewski
  • Patent number: 8828118
    Abstract: A pressure swing adsorption (PSA) system using two or more valves for controlling the flow of gases entering or exiting a bed of adsorbents is disclosed, where the two or more valves are opened sequentially (i.e., in at least two actions separated by a delay in time). The sequential opening of the valves may increase the degree to which adsorbed species are purged from the bed, and also facilitates more rapid execution of certain time steps of the PSA cycle, thus increasing adsorbent productivity The sequential opening of the valves may also allow for verification of valve operation by measuring either the absolute value, the slope (derivative) or the rate of change of derivative of the pressure, either in the adsorbent bed, in the downstream manifold, or in a volume of gas held in a buffer vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Lummus Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Franklin D. Lomax, Richard S. Todd, Brian A. Zakrajsek
  • Patent number: 8801831
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling inert gas generation. An apparatus comprises an air separation module and an air flow control system. The air separation module is configured to separate an inert gas from air input into the air separation module. The air flow control system is configured to control the flow of the air into the air separation module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Donald Ray Snow, Jr., David Michael Smith
  • Publication number: 20140216250
    Abstract: A degassing module for removal of air and other gases during operation of a medical therapy device that delivers any one of hemodialysis, hemodiafiltration and hemofiltration. The degassing module has a flow-through first chamber that has a hydrophobic vent membrane that has an exterior and interior side forming a portion of the flow-through chamber. The hydrophobic vent membrane is positioned at a higher elevation on the flow-through chamber than a fluid outlet. Fluid flows through the flow-through chamber in a downward direction relative to the hydrophobic vent membrane. A flow-through chamber has a cross sectional area configured to provide for a downward flow velocity of the fluid to be less than the upward rise velocity of a smallest bubble to be removed from the fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: MEDTRONIC, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas E. Meyer, David B. Lura, Bryant J. Pudil, Martin T. Gerber
  • Patent number: 8764869
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a separator and more specifically, but not exclusively, to a centrifugal separator for the cleaning of a gaseous fluid. A centrifugal separator is provided as comprising a housing defining an inner space, and a rotor assembly for imparting a rotary motion onto a mixture of substances to be separated. The rotor assembly is located in said inner space and is rotatable about an axis relative to the housing. The rotor assembly comprises an inlet for receiving said mixture of substances, an outlet from which said substances are ejected from the rotor assembly during use, and a flow path for providing fluid communication between the inlet and outlet, wherein the outlet is positioned more radially outward from said axis than the inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Alfa Laval Corporate AB
    Inventor: Thomas Eliasson
  • Patent number: 8758480
    Abstract: A Pressure Swing Adsorption filtration that separates a first set of particles and a second set of particles to produce a purified gas output can be monitored in real-time. A sentinel component can provide real-time in situ tracking of a parameter associated with the PSA filtration and dynamically adjusts the PSA filtration based upon the real-time tracked parameter. The real-time monitoring of the parameter further enables maintenance of equipment utilized with the PSA filtration as well as equipment down-the-line that utilize the purified gas output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Torosoleil, LLC
    Inventors: Robert Wellesley Heston Turnbull, Sunit Srivastava
  • Publication number: 20140130666
    Abstract: A purification arrangement for a gas pipeline system includes a pressure vessel and at least first and second purification assemblies in the interior of the pressure vessel. An openable/closable barrier is positioned in the pressure vessel between the first and second purification assemblies. A gas flow may be established through the pressure vessel, and the gas may pass through the first purification assembly, the open barrier, and the second purification assembly to remove liquid and/or solid particulates from the gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2012
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: Pall Corporation
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Cabourdin, Olivier Trifilieff, Pierre Blanc, Joseph Samaha
  • Patent number: 8679214
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a separator and more specifically, but not exclusively, to a centrifugal separator for the cleaning of a gaseous fluid. A centrifugal separator is provided as comprising a housing defining an inner space, and a rotor assembly for imparting a rotary motion onto a mixture of substances to be separated. The rotor assembly is located in said inner space and is rotatable about an axis relative to the housing. The rotor assembly comprises an inlet for receiving said mixture of substances, an outlet from which said substances are ejected from the rotor assembly during use, and a flow path for providing fluid communication between the inlet and outlet, wherein the outlet is positioned more radially outward from said axis than the inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Alfa Laval Corporate AB
    Inventor: Mats-Orjan Pogén
  • Patent number: 8673038
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a separator and more specifically, but not exclusively, to a centrifugal separator for the cleaning of a gaseous fluid. A centrifugal separator is provided as comprising a housing defining an inner space, and a rotor assembly for imparting a rotary motion onto a mixture of substances to be separated. The rotor assembly is located in said inner space and is rotatable about an axis relative to the housing. The rotor assembly comprises an inlet for receiving said mixture of substances, an outlet from which said substances are ejected from the rotor assembly during use, and a flow path for providing fluid communication between the inlet and outlet, wherein the outlet is positioned more radially outward from said axis than the inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Alfa Laval Corporate AB
    Inventor: Olle Tornblöm
  • Patent number: 8668767
    Abstract: Various equipment and methods associated with providing a concentrated product gas are provided. In one embodiment, the equipment includes an input device first and second sieve tanks, a variable restrictor, and a controller. In one embodiment, the method includes: a) selecting a desired output setting for the concentrated product gas from a plurality of output settings, b) separating one or more adsorbable components from a pressurized source gaseous mixture via first and second sieve tanks in alternating and opposing pressurization and purging cycles to form the concentrated product gas, and c) selectively controlling a variable restrictor based at least in part on the desired output setting to selectively provide flow between the first and second sieve tanks such that the flow for at least one output setting is different from the flow for at least one other output setting in relation to corresponding pressurization cycles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Invacare Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas B. Sprinkle, William J. Daniels, Thomas A. Drobnak, David G. Felty, Valentine A. Hodos, Martin J. Fabian, Samuel J. Shelnutt, Jonathon R. Olszewski
  • Patent number: 8657913
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a separator and more specifically, but not exclusively, to a centrifugal separator for the cleaning of a gaseous fluid. A centrifugal separator is provided as comprising a housing defining an inner space, and a rotor assembly for imparting a rotary motion onto a mixture of substances to be separated. The rotor assembly is located in said inner space and is rotatable about an axis relative to the housing. The rotor assembly comprises an inlet for receiving said mixture of substances, an outlet from which said substances are ejected from the rotor assembly during use, and a flow path for providing fluid communication between the inlet and outlet, wherein the outlet is positioned more radially outward from said axis than the inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Alfa Laval Corporate AB
    Inventor: Mats-Orjan Pogén
  • Patent number: 8657908
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a separator and more specifically, but not exclusively, to a centrifugal separator for the cleaning of a gaseous fluid. A centrifugal separator is provided as comprising a housing defining an inner space, and a rotor assembly for imparting a rotary motion onto a mixture of substances to be separated. The rotor assembly is located in said inner space and is rotatable about an axis relative to the housing. The rotor assembly comprises an inlet for receiving said mixture of substances, an outlet from which said substances are ejected from the rotor assembly during use, and a flow path for providing fluid communication between the inlet and outlet, wherein the outlet is positioned more radially outward from said axis than the inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Alfa Laval Corporate AB
    Inventor: Thomas Eliasson
  • Patent number: 8597400
    Abstract: In a method and an apparatus for separating at least one gaseous component from a waste gas of an installation for producing liquid pig iron, liquid primary steel products or sponge iron, in a first step, a stream of the waste gas passes through at least one adsorption separator at a first pressure, whereby the gaseous component is largely separated from the waste gas and, in a second step, the gaseous component is largely removed from the adsorption separator at a second pressure, which is lower than the first pressure. The method and apparatus are maintenance-free, cause low investment and energy costs and has a lower space requirement by a method in which the second pressure or the desorption pressure is generated by at least one jet pump, which is fed a stream of a propellant gas at a third pressure, which is higher than the second pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Vai Metals Technologies GmbH
    Inventors: Robert Millner, Norbert Rein, Gerald Rosenfellner
  • Patent number: 8597401
    Abstract: An exhausting method includes determining an exhaust flow rate of a process gas to be a predetermined value that is less than or equal to a gas flow rate corresponding to a maximum process capability of a purification system when the process gas is diluted to a lower explosive limit; calculating a pressure drop amount per unit time to maintain the determined exhaust flow rate of the process gas, based on a relation between the exhaust flow rate and the pressure drop amount per unit time; and evacuating an inside of the chamber to maintain the determined exhaust flow rate, while controlling the pressure through an automatic pressure control valve by setting a target pressure value to be updated as a control value of the automatic pressure control valve at every predetermined time interval so as to achieve a calculated pressure drop amount per unit time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventors: Norihiko Amikura, Risako Miyoshi
  • Publication number: 20130291718
    Abstract: One ozone concentrating chamber is provided therein with a part of a cooling temperature range where ozone can be selectively condensed or an oxygen gas can be selectively removed by transmission from an ozonized oxygen gas, and a part of a temperature range where condensed ozone can be vaporized, and condensed ozone is vaporized by moving condensed ozone with flow of a fluid or by gravitation to the part where condensed ozone can be vaporized, whereby the ozonized oxygen gas can be increased in concentration. Such a constitution is provided that a particle material 13 for condensation and vaporization filled in the ozone concentrating chambers 11 and 12 has a spherical shape of a special shape with multifaceted planes on side surfaces, or an oxygen transmission membrane 130 capable of selectively transmitting an oxygen gas in an ozone gas is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Inventors: Yoichiro TABATA, Tetsuya SAITSU, Yujiro OKIHARA, Nobuyuki ITOH, Ryohei UEDA, Yasuhiro TANIMURA, Koji OHTA
  • Patent number: 8574342
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for a membrane separation system, including process and installation for the separation of air by permeation, using two strategically placed heaters for the production of high purity nitrogen, uniquely designed multi-staged pre-filtration system and a novel method of controlling the nitrogen flow and purity. The system comprises in series an air compressor (1), an air cooler (2) cooled by air or liquid, moisture separator (3), mist removing filter (4), primary heat source (5), coalescing filter (8), carbon tower (9), particle filter (10), secondary heat source (11), membrane separator(s) (14), and control valve (19). The system is to provide and maintain superheated air to the membrane separator(s) using strategically located heaters to eliminate condensation of moisture in the carbon tower or membrane separator(s) eliminating the need for a separate compressed air dryer, or the need for insulation of pipes, vessels and the membrane separator(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventor: Charles M. Flowe
  • Patent number: 8562723
    Abstract: Various equipment and methods associated with providing a concentrated product gas are provided. In one embodiment, the equipment includes an input device first and second sieve tanks, a variable restrictor, and a controller. In one embodiment, the method includes: a) selecting a desired output setting for the concentrated product gas from a plurality of output settings, b) separating one or more adsorbable components from a pressurized source gaseous mixture via first and second sieve tanks in alternating and opposing pressurization and purging cycles to form the concentrated product gas, and c) selectively controlling a variable restrictor based at least in part on the desired output setting to selectively provide flow between the first and second sieve tanks such that the flow for at least one output setting is different from the flow for at least one other output setting in relation to corresponding pressurization cycles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Invacare Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas B. Sprinkle, William J. Daniels, Thomas A. Drobnak, David G. Felty, Valentine A. Hodos, Martin J. Fabian, Samuel J. Shelnutt, Jonathon R. Olszewski
  • Publication number: 20130239803
    Abstract: A method for reducing airborne contamination within a home includes installing an air-pressure control system within a window of the home, and drawing air from outside the home through the system inlet and an airflow path through the system. As it passes through the airflow path, a germicidal radiation chamber with a UV light source sterilizes the air. Additionally, filter(s) may clean the drawn air by removing particulates from the air as it passes through the filter. The method may then introduce the sterilized/cleaned air into the home through the system outlet. The sterilized/cleaned air may displace an equal volume of contaminated air within the home.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: AMERICAN INNOVATIVE RESEARCH CORP.
    Inventor: David W. Palmer
  • Patent number: 8518150
    Abstract: Methods for the purification of steam, systems for purifying steam, methods for measuring and/or controlling steam flow rates, and uses for purified steam are provide. Also provided are substantially gas-impermeable membranes, such as perfluorinated ionomers (e.g., perfluoroethylene-sulfonic-acid/tetrafluoroethylene membranes), having a high ratio of water vapor permeation relative to gas permeation through the membrane. Also provided are methods of operation of such membranes at relatively high operating temperatures for the purification of steam and for operation of such membranes at relatively low temperature and sub-atmospheric pressures for the purification of steam. In a preferred embodiment, the system 400 for purifying steam comprises heater 404 for creating a source of a steam feed, and a purification device 416 for housing a substantially gas-impermeable membrane 424. In the operation of system 400, water, such as deionized water, is added to vessel 402 to provide a source of the steam feed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Rasirc
    Inventors: Jeffrey J. Spiegelman, Richard D. Blethen
  • Publication number: 20130216627
    Abstract: Lightweight, small, portable devices and methods are disclosed that provide oxygen-enriched air using an ultra rapid adsorption cycle based on advanced molecular sieve materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2012
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Inventors: Stephen Douglas Galbraith, David K. Walker, Kenneth J. McGowan, Elise N. DePetris, Judith C. Galbraith
  • Patent number: 8512453
    Abstract: A fuel tank deaeration and aeration system, including a first main filter device having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the inlet is in fluid communication with a fuel tank; and a second additional filter device having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the inlet is in fluid communication with the outlet of the main filter device, and the additional filter device outlet is in fluid communication with an environment of a vehicle, and wherein a bypass valve controls a bypass, which bypasses the additional filter device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Mahle International GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Rudolph, Tilmann Wächter
  • Patent number: 8449649
    Abstract: Systems and methods for initiating startup of PSA assemblies in hydrogen-processing assemblies, which may include a hydrogen-generation assembly and/or a fuel cell stack. The systems and methods include startup procedures that provide for pressurization of the adsorbent beds of the PSA assembly without the need for a stored quantity or other supply of purified hydrogen gas. The systems and methods additionally or alternatively include startup procedures that restrict or even prevent contamination of portions of the PSA assembly, hydrogen storage devices and/or accumulator tanks with an impure gas stream and/or decrease accumulation of the impure gas stream therein. This impure gas stream may be the mixed gas, reformate, or other gas stream that is intended to be purified by the PSA assembly when the PSA assembly is in its hydrogen-purifying operating state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Idatech, LLC
    Inventor: Benjamin Charles Greenough
  • Patent number: 8449648
    Abstract: Method for drying compressed gas using a dryer with pressure vessels. The method having the steps of guiding a first part of the gas to a cooler via a regulating valve, and of subsequently drying this first part of the gas in the drying pressure vessel; and of heating a second part of the gas so as to regenerate the regenerating pressure vessel. When the temperature in the regenerating pressure vessel rises above an upper limit value, the regulating valve will be gradually moved in the direction of the shut position and, when the temperature in the regenerating pressure vessel drops under a predetermined bottom limit, the regulating valve will be gradually moved in the direction of the entirely open position, which adjustment allows to set the compressed gas at a desired temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Atlas Copco Airpower, Naamloze Vennootschap
    Inventors: Filip Gustaaf M. Huberland, Wouter Maes, Eduard Nieuwenhuize, Tim Ceyssens
  • Publication number: 20130032028
    Abstract: Provided are a method for operating a gas separation device capable of performing gas separation with high separation capability and treatment amount in a small membrane area or in a small number of separation membrane modules, and a method for recovering a residual gas capable of performing more suitable detoxifying treatment or recycling by efficiently separating and recovering a mixed gas remaining in a cylinder, using the operating method. Two or more separation membrane modules are connected with each other in parallel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicants: National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science, Taiyo Nippon Sanso Corporation
    Inventors: Yuzuru Miyazawa, Yoko Aomura, Yoshihiko Kobayashi, Kenji Haraya, Miki Yoshimune
  • Patent number: 8343258
    Abstract: A device for providing a constant mass flow rate to a downstream column system of a gas chromatograph includes a small full scale mass flow controller that controls carrier gas to flow at a first mass flow rate and a flow resistance element, including an inlet port connected to a sample inlet, an outlet port connected to the downstream column system, and a pressure sensing port in fluid communication with the outlet port and the mass flow controller. A sample inlet pressure controller controls the sample inlet at a first pressure, and a pressure sensor measures a second pressure of the carrier gas at the pressure sensing port. A set point of the first pressure is determined as a function of the second pressure, flow resistance of the flow resistance element, and a second mass flow rate from the inlet port to the outlet port of the flow resistance element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Xiaosheng Guan
  • Patent number: 8323378
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for supplying oxygen to meet a user demand in which oxygen is separated from air by an electrically driven oxygen separation device to supply oxygen to meet the user demand and to charge an adsorbent bed with all or part of the separated oxygen. When a user demand exists, oxygen can be supplied from both the electrically driven oxygen separation device and from oxygen desorbed from the adsorbent bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Sadashiv Swami, Philip A. Barrett, Richard Martin Kelly
  • Patent number: 8282708
    Abstract: Methods for the purification of steam, systems for purifying steam, methods for measuring and/or controlling steam flow rates, and uses for purified steam are provide. Also provided are substantially gas-impermeable membranes, such as perfluorinated ionomers (e.g., perfluoroethylene-sulfonic-acid/tetrafluoroethylene membranes), having a high ratio of water vapor permeation relative to gas permeation through the membrane. Also provided are methods of operation of such membranes at relatively high operating temperatures for the purification of steam and for operation of such membranes at relatively low temperature and sub-atmospheric pressures for the purification of steam. In a preferred embodiment, the system 400 for purifying steam comprises heater 404 for creating a source of a steam feed, and a purification device 416 for housing a substantially gas-impermeable membrane 424. In the operation of system 400, water, such as deionized water, is added to vessel 402 to provide a source of the steam feed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: RASIRC
    Inventors: Jeffrey J. Spiegelman, Richard D. Blethen
  • Publication number: 20120227581
    Abstract: A sampling system includes a collection module including a gas handler, and a flow controller in communication with the gas handler of the collection module. The flow controller controls the gas handler to move a selected volume of gas through the collection module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2012
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Applicant: HEALTH DIAGNOSTICS TOOLS, LLC
    Inventors: Russell D. Mileham, George W. Schossow