Abstract: A bi-functional filter device for removing liquid from a humid gas flowing through the filter device includes a filter body that includes an axial through-channel that passes lengthwise through the filter's body, through which gas (e.g., humid gas) can flow, and a dehumidifier sleeve that encloses the filter body. The filter body includes a capillary path that may absorb, and thus remove, liquids, for example laterally, radially or spirally (in spiral manner) from the through-channel of the filter body using capillary action, to thus clear the through-channel of the filter body from these liquids. The dehumidifier sleeve may evaporate liquid contained in (and arriving from) the filter body.

Abstract: A hollow filter element, including: a filter medium (64) for filtering the fluid, the filter medium circumferentially surrounding an element interior space (72) in relation to an element axis (32), forming a conical-oval round filter element; wherein the hollow filter element (18) includes: at least at one outer face facing away from the element interior space (72) at an end face (66); at least one support element (78) configured to support the hollow filter element (18) at a housing-sided support section (42) of a filter housing (12); and at least one fluid passage (81) arranged at the end face (66) in the center of the at least one support element (78), the at least one fluid passage connected to the element interior space (72) for connecting a secondary fluid line connector (45) of a housing-sided secondary fluid line (47) and/or for receiving a housing-sided positioning dome (245).

Abstract: A pulse cleaning filter system has a housing with an inlet side and an outlet side separated by a planar tubesheet. The housing includes multiple tubesheet openings forming multiple rows. Multiple cylindrical filter cartridges have an open end sealed around one of the tubesheet openings and a closed end at the inlet side of the housing. A filter cleaning system includes a compressed gas header extending perpendicular to a normal of the tubesheet, multiple compressed gas outlet stub pipes extending from the header, right angle pulse valves connecting each of the stub pipes to a pulse manifold pipe including a first straight portion, a ninety degree bend at the outlet side of the housing, and a second straight portion at the outlet side of the housing. A gas pulse nozzle has a main injection axis directed along the central axis of the filter cartridge.

Abstract: A filter that filters carbon dioxide in the gaseous, liquid or supercritical state is efficiently purified. The carbon dioxide is used to at least clean or dry an object to be treated, or to clean or dry the object to be treated. A method of purifying a filter for filtering carbon dioxide in a gaseous, liquid or supercritical state is provided. The carbon dioxide is used to at least clean or dry the object to be treated, or to clean and dry the object to be treated. According to the method, the filter 13 is purified before the carbon dioxide is filtered in the gaseous, liquid or supercritical state by the filter 13. The filter 13 is purified by allowing carbon dioxide to pass through the filter.

Abstract: An apparatus, process, and system are disclosed that effectively provide separation of a combined gas/liquid flow stream into its separated gas and liquid factions. The invention is primarily directed to the fields of preparative supercritical fluid chromatography [SFC] and supercritical fluid extraction [SFE], but will have other utilization and applicability where phases of dramatically different density, viscosity and volumetric flow require separation.

Abstract: A filter house and cleaning system arrangement for a turbine system and an associated method. The arrangement includes a filter house and filter elements within the filter house. The arrangement includes nozzles that spray a fluid on the filter elements to provide cleaning of the filter elements. The nozzles have structure that permits the nozzles to move within the filter house to adjust where on the filter elements the fluid is sprayed. The arrangement includes a detection device configured to detect a level of cleanliness and provide an output that indicates the level of cleanliness.

Abstract: Disclosed are filter media packs having a single layer of a high loft filter media and a single layer of a low loft filter media, the filter media pack characterized by the absence of oil added to the filter media pack, the filter media pack capable of filtering air laden particulates from an air stream at greater than 94% efficiency at air stream flow rates of between about 100 feet per minute and 3000 feet per minute. Also disclosed are filter assemblies formed from the filter media pack, and methods of using the filter assemblies.

Abstract: A polymer includes at least one pendant dioxirane moiety represented by Formula III or IV: In Formulas III and IV, R1 is absent or is alkylene, perhaloalkylene, cycloalkylene, arylene, heteroarylene, heterocyclylene, amino, carbonyl, carboxyl, alkylcarboxy, carboxyalkyl or alkylcarboxyalkyl; R2 is an electron withdrawing group; R8 is —N+R4R5 or alkylene; R9 is —N+R4R5 or alkylene; each R4 is independently H, alkyl, or cycloalkyl; and each R5 is independently H, alkyl, or cycloalkyl.

Abstract: A method of treating a particulate filter includes introducing a work fluid, such as water, into one or more channels of the filter and then removing the work fluid in a vaporized state. The channels contain an amount of ash and the density of the ash is greater subsequent to the removal of the work fluid than prior to the introduction of the work fluid.

Abstract: The support structure is used in a filter bag for filtering gas and has a plurality of tubular pipe elements extending in the longitudinal direction of the filter bag. The tubular pipe elements are connected to annular elements located at a distance from each other in the longitudinal direction. The annular elements include elements formed by a number of parts, each part having two ends and extending between adjacent longitudinally extending tubular pipe elements.

Abstract: The invention provides methods and apparatuses for removing aerosols and, in some cases, vapor phase contaminants, such as mercury, from a gas stream. One method is directed to the removal of additional aerosols from a gas stream from which aerosols have previously been removed by using a screen in combination with a primary aerosol collection device. Another method is directed to the removal of both aerosols and vapor phase contaminants by using a sorbent in combination with a screen. Another method is directed to the removal of vapor phase contaminants by using a catalyst to convert the contaminant to a form that is more easily removed from the gas stream and optionally injecting a chemical to increase the rate of conversion. The invention also provides various apparatuses for use in performing the various methods of the invention.

Abstract: A filter arrangement, for cleaning gases contaminated with particles, has at least one filter unit with an exterior and an interior filter (3.1, 3.2), wherein the exterior and interior filters can be moved relative to each other, thereby exposing an opening (3.4) in the bottom regions thereof. This allows cleaning of filter units at the site of the filter units without disassembly of the same (cleaning in place—CIP). A method for cleaning is provided in that the region of the filter unit on the clean gas side including introducing a fluid sprayed via a cleaning lance protruding into the clean gas region while exposing a gap (3.4) in the bottom region of the exterior and interior filters.

Abstract: A filter system for an air inlet of a gas turbine engine. The filter system may include a number of filters positioned about the air inlet and a water spray system positioned to spray the filters. The filters may include a hydrophobic or an oleophobic filter media.

Abstract: A conduit may be used to deliver a pressurized fluid to a cell of a diesel particulate filter to clean the cell. The pressurized fluid may remove particulate matter from the cell. The conduit may be moved within the cell to dislodge particulate matter within the cell. The conduit may be manually or automatically inserted into the cell.

Abstract: A granulator device (1) for the treatment of powdered material, in particular pharmaceutical powdered material, comprises a substantially cylindrical container (2), in which there is a chamber (4) for treatment of the powdered material using a fluid flow fed into the chamber (4); filtering means (5) for filtering the inside of the chamber (4), the filtering means (5) being located in the chamber (4) and comprising at least one filter (5) with a cylindrical metal mesh filtering wall (6); and means (P) for cleaning the filtering means (5) which can be activated during maintenance operations, the cleaning means comprising at least one element (7) rotating about each filter (5) and supporting diffuser means (8) designed to diffuse a service fluid on the cylindrical wall (6) in order to eliminate any impurities trapped in the filter (5) wall (6); the cleaning means (P) also comprise means (9) for temporarily opening at least one portion (10) of the filter (5) to allow the service fluid to flow out of the filter (5

Abstract: The present invention relates to systems for regenerating a plugged diesel particulate filter (DPF) or catalyzed DPF. In certain embodiments, the system includes a fluid container and pulse valve, a heater, and a blower. Other embodiments include methods of regenerating a plugged DPF by directing a fluid at a first face of a DPF, redirecting the fluid at a second face of the DPF, and in some embodiment, heating the DPF.

Abstract: A filter system has a first filter from which solvent is recovered in a cleaning cycle using a rinse fluid in forward flow, and from which particulates are removed using flush gas in reverse flow. At least part of the solvent and the flush gas are recycled to the system, and in still further preferred aspects, filtration of the solvent continues during the cleaning cycle via a bypass circuit through which the solvent is routed to a second filter.

Abstract: A filter arrangement, for cleaning gases contaminated with particles, has at least one filter unit with an exterior and an interior filter (3.1, 3.2), wherein the exterior and interior filters can be moved relative to each other, thereby exposing an opening (3.4) in the bottom regions thereof. This allows cleaning of filter units at the site of the filter units without disassembly of the same (cleaning in place—CIP). A method for cleaning is provided in that the region of the filter unit on the clean gas side including introducing a fluid sprayed via a cleaning lance protruding into the clean gas region while exposing a gap (3.4) in the bottom region of the exterior and interior filters.

Abstract: The invention relates to devices and methods for cleaning centrifugal separators for concurrent and countercurrent separation of solid and/or liquid particles suspended in gaseous media. The device comprises a rotor (12) which is provided with a multiplicity of sedimentation members (14) and which is mounted rotatably in a surrounding housing (20). In concurrent separation, a flushing nozzle (36) is arranged upstream of the sedimentation members (14) in order to supply a cleaning liquid for flushing the sedimentation members clean. In countercurrent separation, the flushing nozzle is arranged upstream and/or downstream of the sedimentation members in order to supply cleaning liquid from outside and/or from inside the rotor for flushing the sedimentation members clean.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a self-cleanable filter assembly capable of filtering small particles from a gas stream, the use of one or more metal fiber filter elements in said filter assembly, use of said filter assembly in a spray-dryer installation. The invention further relates to a system for cleaning the filter assembly, a method of cleaning the filter assembly and the filter elements contained therein, and a spray dryer installation comprising the filter assembly of the present invention.

Abstract: The support structure is used in a filter bag for filtering gas and has a plurality of tubular pipe elements extending in the longitudinal direction of the filter bag. The tubular pipe elements are connected to annular elements located at a distance from each other in the longitudinal direction. The annular elements include elements formed by a number of parts, each part having two ends and extending between adjacent longitudinally extending tubular pipe elements.

Abstract: Aseptic bottling or container filling plant with a clean room arrangement enclosing the aseptic bottling or container filling plant and a filter unit for filtering air entering the clean room, and a method of operation thereof. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.

Abstract: A method for cleaning a vehicle exhaust system filter including a plurality of generally parallel elongate channels comprises introducing liquid into the elongate channels for absorption by particulate matter present in the channels, and rotating the filter such that the rotation causes the wetted particulate matter to move along, and out of, the elongate channels to thereby clean the filter.

Abstract: Provided is an apparatus 1 for measuring pressure loss in a filter 2, which apparatus includes filter holding means 3; fluid passing means; flow rate measuring means; pressure loss measuring means; and a flow path 6 which connects the four means such that a fluid can pass between the means. The apparatus further includes flow rate regulating means having a mainstream path 7; a tributary path 8 which is branched from the mainstream path 7 and communicates with the outside; and one or more flow path opening/closing members 9 capable of, in conjunction with the level of the fluid flow rate as measured through the flow rate measuring means, opening or closing the mainstream path 7 or the tributary path 8 such that the flow path opening ratio of each of the paths varies continuously or intermittently. The apparatus achieves reliable and convenient measurement of pressure loss with the flow rate of the fluid which passes through the filter 2 being maintained at a constant level by the flow rate regulating means.

Abstract: A method and system for collecting airborne particles and hydrating the collected particles for analysis. The airborne particles, which may be biological contaminants, are collected from a container containing one or more mailpieces. In the collection stage, a dry filter collection assembly is connected to the container and air is drawn out of the container through a dry filter. A hydration solution is then injected into the collection assembly to hydrate the collected particles. Part of the hydration solution containing the collected particles is caused to move out of the collection assembly to a test cartridge for further testing.

Abstract: A protective screen is provided for use with air-handling devices, including air conditioners and evaporative coolers. In one aspect the protective screen is comprised of a generally flexible mesh material. The screen is secured around the exterior of the air-handling device, closely adjacent any inlet openings. One or more drawstrings are provided to fit the screen to the air-handling device and prevent unintentional removal therefrom. The protective screen may be periodically removed and cleaned prior to reuse.

Abstract: A granulator device (101) for the treatment of powdered products comprises a closed container (102) forming a chamber (103) for treatment of the products, filter elements (104, 105) projecting into the treatment chamber (103), the filter elements comprising a multi-layer filtering wall (105) through which a fluid current can pass, and powder removing parts (106; 107, 108, 109, 110) designed to diffuse at least one service fluid directed towards at least the filtering wall (105); the powder removing parts (106; 107, 108, 109, 110) having at least first diffuser nozzles (107) and at least second diffuser nozzles (108) to diffuse the service fluid so as to free the filtering wall (105) of the powders trapped in it; there also being parts (140, 142, 147) for supporting and driving the filter elements (104, 105) which can change the angle of the filter elements (104, 105) from a first operating position, in which at least the first nozzles (107) act on the filtering wall (105), to a second operating position in wh

Abstract: A conduit may be used to deliver a pressurized fluid to a cell of a diesel particulate filter to clean the cell. The pressurized fluid may remove particulate matter from the cell. The conduit may be moved within the cell to dislodge particulate matter within the cell. The conduit may be manually or automatically inserted into the cell.

Abstract: A control system for use with a filter cleaning apparatus. The filter is supported in a housing and has a surface at which particulates are separated from a fluid stream passing through the filter and collected. The control system comprises a header for supplying pressurized fluid to at least one blowpipe to direct a stream of cleaning fluid into the filter to dislodge particulates from the surface of the filter. An actuatable valve is fluidly connected with the header and the blowpipe. Upon actuation, the valve permits pressurized fluid to flow from the header to the blowpipe. A wireless receiver is associated with the valve to actuate the valve upon receiving an actuation signal.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a filter cleaning device, in particular, diesel particulate filters. In one embodiment, the device includes a source of high pressure fluid and a mechanism transport the fluid to a nozzle or nozzles; an actuator for moving the nozzles; a controller with logic for instructing the actuator to automatically move the nozzle or nozzles across the surface of the filter; a collection device and suction device downstream of the filter; and ducting to transport the fluid between parts of the system. In one embodiment, a second collection device is used downstream of the suction device to provide additional particulate removal. There are three methods proposed for providing high pressure cleaning fluid to the filter face: 1) rotating the filter and rotating the jet about an axis outside of the filter; 2) moving a nozzle in two perpendicular directions (i.e., x-y); and 3) rotating a radial nozzle about the central axis of the filter.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a method and system for removing ash, particularly a heat-treated ash deposit from a filter. At least a majority (e.g., greater than 50 wt %) of the ash is removed as a result of the process. The filter containing the ash deposit is contacted with an acid composition to remove a majority of the ash, and the acid-contacted filter is then treated to remove at least a portion of the acid.

Abstract: Self cleaning air filtration machine and a method for using same comprising; a filter with a motor driven belt or disk or counter rotating disks that are perforated, a spray bar, a recirculation pump and supply line, a wet tank, a ultrasonic transducer, ultraviolet submersible bulbs, a water fill port, a liquid level sensor, a liquid and sediment drain port, and a power source. A preferred embodiment includes a subsonic transducer on the wet tank. A preferred embodiment includes a air diffuser, a toxic and noxious gas detection and recognition and radiation detection with automatic safety shut down and audible and visual alarm, a ultraviolet saturation chamber. A preferred embodiment includes a secondary wet filter, a secondary air diffuser, a secondary ultraviolet saturation chamber. A preferred embodiment includes a inline dryer assembly.

Abstract: A cleaning device for a bundle of tubular filter elements designed with one end open, preferably of an industrial dust filter, is proposed. Injectors for delivery of a pulse-like compressed-air jet into the filter elements are arranged above the openings of the filter elements. The compressed-air supply of the injectors, controlled via valves, takes place via a number of nozzle tubes extending at right angles to the injectors, and a number of injectors are connected in a row to each nozzle tube. Only some of the nozzle tubes are connected directly to valves and these nozzle tubes extend to a deflection, from which at least one further nozzle tube closed at its end extends in the opposite direction. The deflection is preferably at the same time a branching from which two nozzle tubes extend, which are located on the two sides of the centrally arranged nozzle tube.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a filter cleaning device, in particular, diesel particulate filters. In one embodiment, the device comprises a source of high pressure fluid and means to transport the fluid to a nozzle or nozzles; an actuator for moving the nozzles; a controller with logic for instructing the actuator to automatically move the nozzle or nozzles across the surface of the filter; a collection device and suction device downstream of the filter; and ducting to transport the fluid between parts of the system. In one embodiment, a second collection device is used downstream of the suction device to provide additional particulate removal. There are three methods proposed for providing high pressure cleaning fluid to the filter face: 1) rotating the filter and rotating the jet about an axis outside of the filter; 2) moving a nozzle in two perpendicular directions (i.e., x-y); and 3) rotating a rectangular nozzle about the central axis of the filter.

Abstract: The present invention includes a composition having detackifying and detoxifying properties such that the composition is useful for detackifying and detoxifying paint particles in spray booth water and for treating a paint booth dry filter to render the filter fire retardant, non-combustible and non-hazardous to enable disposal of a used dry filter in a standard landfill. The present invention also includes a method for the detackification and detoxification of oversprayed paint in a paint spray booth system wherein said oversprayed paint comes into contact with water of a waste water system.

Abstract: Particles may be used to filter oleo material such as grease from a flow of fluid such as a gas. The particles can be arranged into a bed to filter the oleo material from the fluid. The filtrate substance collect on the inorganic particles. The particles are re-usable, in that they can be subjected to filtrate-separation techniques, e.g., solvent extraction, detergent washing, and centrifugal separation, to separate the oleo material from the particles.

Abstract: The present invention relates a method for cleaning polymeric microfiltration membranes and membrane units, and to compositions useful in such methods. The compositions include at least one soluble sulfite reducing agent and a compatible solvent.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of cleaning a particle filter (1) by means use of a fluid, whereby the filter material is alternately treated with pressure and high flow rate. By means of the above using this method, the ash is washed out of the filter material, essentially more effectively; namely, and more completely and more gently for the filter material (2) than previously possible.

Abstract: Shown is an apparatus and method for cleaning filter units of an air filtering system using a reverse flow pulse of pressurized air. The filter cleaning system includes a venturi element (36) with a narrowed throat portion (56). A blowpipe (46) is substantially axially aligned with the venturi (36) and has an outlet nozzle (50) that is flared in a substantially conical shape with an included angle that (64) that exceeds an angle at (62) at which high pressure air would ordinarily diverge from an unmodified blowpipe opening. The nozzle (50) is axially spaced from the venturi at a selected distance (70) such that a high velocity pulse of air delivered by the blowpipe (46) through the nozzle (50) is delivered to the outlet portion (58) of the venturi (36) substantially between the outlet opening (62) and the throat (56).

Abstract: A washable air filter for an internal combustion engine which has high durability and can be washed with ease to reuse it is disclosed. The washable air filter includes an outer cylindrical member 10; an inner cylindrical member 11; a first filter element 30 formed from a stainless mesh sheet which is folded in a pleated-form having peaks and valleys arranged alternately and provided between the outer cylindrical member 10 and the inner cylindrical member 11; and a second filter element 33 provided between the outer cylindrical member 10 and the first tilter element 30. Since the washable air filter uses the filter element made from the stainless mesh sheet, it is possible to effectively remove dust particles from air. Further, the washable air filter can be reused because dust particles are removed off the filter element by washing after use.

Abstract: A method for cleaning air and an air cleaner utilizing it are disclosed, by which the air cleaner can be made smaller than the conventional air cleaners when the performances are the same. According to the method of the invention, a filter formed on peripheral portion of a disk is formed along the peripheral portion of the disk so as to surround inside area of the disk is rotated, which filter is bent into wave-shape such that irregularities of the wave are formed in radial direction of the disk, thereby discharging air existing on the inside area of the disk to outside of the disk through the filter.

Abstract: The particulate filter is disassembled in order to separate it from the exhaust line and the filtering support of the particulate filter is contacted with a cleaning solution, for example contained in a tank, for a period sufficient to ensure soaking of the filtering support, thereby facilitating the detachment of residues retained in the filtering support.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a filter cleaning device, in particular, diesel particulate filters. In one embodiment, the device comprises a source of high pressure fluid and means to transport the fluid to a nozzle or nozzles; an actuator for moving the nozzles; a controller with logic for instructing the actuator to automatically move the nozzle or nozzles across the surface of the filter; a collection device and suction device downstream of the filter; and ducting to transport the fluid between parts of the system. In one embodiment, a second collection device is used downstream of the suction device to provide additional particulate removal. There are three methods proposed for providing high pressure cleaning fluid to the filter face: 1) rotating the filter and rotating the jet about an axis outside of the filter; 2) moving a nozzle in two perpendicular directions (i.e., x-y); and 3) rotating a rectangular nozzle about the central axis of the filter.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method for cleaning the upstream surface (14) of a particulate filter (10) of a heat engine exhaust line, the filter (20) being arranged in a casing (12) having an outlet (22) for exhaust gases. The method comprises a step which consists in circulating a liquid flux through the particulate filter (10) from its downstream surface (18) towards its upstream surface (14) viewed from the direction of exhaust gas flow in the filter. The liquid flux circulated through the particulate filter (10) has a flow rate higher than 50 litres/minute and is distributed over the main part of the downstream surface (18) of the particulate filter.

Abstract: A filter unit (1) for filtering gas has a plurality of bag filters (10) hanging down from a suspension plate (7) dividing a housing into a lower gas inlet side (9) and an upper outlet side (8) for filtered gas. The individual bag filter (10) has an open end (11) at the suspension plate, a tubular wall (20) of a flexible filter material, and a lower end closure (23) of an impermeable material and provided with a drain (25). The end closures of the bag filters are interconnected.

Abstract: A gas turbine suction air filter is provided wherein, despite a large capacity, dust is easily removed by an ultrasonic washer. A gas turbine suction air filter (1) has a box-like frame member (3) and a filter cloth (5) contained in the frame member (3). The frame member (3) is made of a metal material, preferably a stainless steel. The filter cloth (5) is formed having many pleats so that many folded faces (7) are formed. No intervening member is provided between adjacent folded faces (7, 7), with only a space being arranged there. The filter cloth (5) is a non-woven fabric of a synthetic resin fiber, preferably a polypropylene fiber. While this filter (1) has a large capacity, an ultrasonic wave reaches the entire filter cloth (5) when the filter (1) is washed by an ultrasonic washer.

Abstract: A method and system for removing particles from a particulate laden gas stream through the use of centripetal and centrifugal forces. A rotating shaft and brushes create centrifugal force upon particulates within the gas, while a centripetal force created by a pressure differential, directs the gas radially inward. The centripetal force may be created and maintained by self-pumping means driven by a rotating shaft. Rinsing means are provided for periodically rinsing particles accumulated within the bristles.

Abstract: A novel process for the regeneration of PTMSP membranes is disclosed. The regeneration process includes washing a fouled PTMSP membrane with a solution containing at least about 50% butanol in water for a time sufficient to increase the flux and/or selectivity of the membrane. This regeneration process with a butanol containing solution significantly improves both the flux and selectivity of the PTMSP membrane and can regenerate the flux of the PTMSP membrane to the level of a previously unused membrane.

Abstract: A processing apparatus is provided, particularly a granulating or coating apparatus. A filtering assembly is arranged above or adjacent a processing chamber for removing dust from process air containing a particulate material. The filtering assembly includes at least one filter which is passed by the process air coming from the processing chamber. The filter includes a plurality of filter surfaces arranged adjacent to one another to form a substantially circular filter body. The filter surfaces extend substantially radially and in meander-like geometry to be inclined with respect to the process air flow.

Abstract: A filter for filtering a particle-containing medium and having nozzles includes a housing having an inlet opening and an outlet opening for the cleaning fluid, the openings forming between them a passage defined by a wall, a valve body having a valve head and a valve rod, the valve rod being arranged to be moved in the interior of the passage between a first end position and a second end position to control the flow of the cleaning fluid toward the partition plate and/or the filter devices, the outlet opening forming a valve seat adapted to cooperate with the valve head in the first position to prevent outflow of the cleaning fluid, and a spring for generating a bias of the valve body in a direction toward the first end position.