Entries |
Document | Title | Date |
20080210306 | Integrated surface-machined micro flow controller method and apparatus - A surface-micromachined mass flow controller (MFC) comprises an electrostatically actuated microvalve integrated with a thermal flow sensor. The microvalve comprises a normally-open diaphragm defining an aperture allowing fluid communication between first and second flow channels. The diaphragm includes a second electrode actuable toward a valve seat including a first electrode. Fabricated utilizing a multilayer Parylene process, the active microvalve and the flow sensor are integrated onto a single chip to perform closed-loop flow control. For flow control, both Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) and actuation voltage adjustment are demonstrated. | 09-04-2008 |
20080257414 | Method For Reduction Of Crude Oil Viscosity - The present invention relates to a method for reducing the viscosity and facilitating the flow of petroleum-based fluids. The method includes the step of applying an electric field of sufficient strength and for a sufficient time to the petroleum-based fluid to cause a reduction in viscosity of the fluid. | 10-23-2008 |
20080271786 | AUTOMATIC BALANCING DEVICE AND SYSTEM FOR CENTRIFUGE ROTORS - An apparatus and method for automatic balancing and inertial damping of vibrations in a rotor are disclosed. According to one embodiment, a rotor drive shaft is adapted to mount a rotor and rotate the rotor. A lower drive shaft connects to a source of rotation. A flexible coupling attaches the rotor drive shaft to the lower drive shaft and transfers a rotational force applied by the source of rotation to the rotor while permitting relative lateral motion between the rotor drive shaft and the lower drive shaft. An inertial coupling is coupled to the rotor drive shaft and provides inertial resistance to the relative lateral motion. A clamping collar is coupled to the inertial coupling to couple the inertial coupling to a chassis and permit the relative lateral motion between the rotor drive shaft and the lower drive shaft. | 11-06-2008 |
20080276991 | Preset Flow Control Modules for Dispensing Valves - A flow controller for fluids. The flow controller may include a flow control chamber, a diffuser positioned within the flow control chamber, and a fixed-length stop. The fixed-length stop is positioned a predetermined distance into the diffuser so as to control the flow rate of the fluids passing through the flow control chamber. | 11-13-2008 |
20080302423 | Temperature-Controlled Variable Fluidic Resistance Device - A thermally controlled variable restrictor device provides variable restriction of fluid flow by temperature-induced viscosity changes. The thermally controlled variable restrictor device allows fast variable fluid control by employing a thermo-electric heater-cooler in intimate contact with a fluid channel containing a fluid thereby effecting rapid viscosity changes in the flowing fluid. The permeability and flow rate of fluids through the variable restrictor device can be manipulated by changing the temperature of a restriction element. | 12-11-2008 |
20090000665 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR INDUCING CONTROLLABLE JETS IN LIQUIDS - A method for inducing a controllable jet in a transparent liquid is disclosed. The method comprises providing a gas-liquid interface, providing a laser source and generating a beam comprising a sequence of laser pulses, and focusing the beam to a target location within the liquid at a predetermined distance from the gas-liquid interface and creating a plurality of cavitation bubbles, yielding a jet directed away from the gas-liquid interface. Other methods and apparatus are also described and claimed. | 01-01-2009 |
20090050211 | Method and Apparatus For Water Surge Protection - A method and apparatus protecting a water distribution system from main breaks caused by sudden pressure spikes in the distribution system. A surge suppressor apparatus may include a surge suppressor tank. The surge suppressor tank may be a hollow, cylindrical container adapted to retain liquid. The surge suppressor apparatus may also include a tee pipe integrally formed to the suppressor tank. The tee pipe is sized so that it connects to an underground supply pipe. End caps may be integrally formed to the suppressor tank. The end caps create an airtight seal in the surge suppressor tank. | 02-26-2009 |
20090056814 | Method and device for storing chemical products in a container - In a method for the storage of chemical products in a container ( | 03-05-2009 |
20090065066 | METHOD FOR VAPORIZING LIQUID MATERIAL CAPABLE OF VAPORIZING LIQUID MATERIAL AT LOW TEMPERATURE AND VAPORIZER USING THE SAME - A vaporizer is provided with a vaporizing chamber heated by heaters; a primary filter positioned in a bottom end portion of the vaporizing chamber and heated by the heater; a liquid material supply portion for dropping down a flow-controlled liquid material from upper portion of the vaporizing chamber toward the primary filter; a carrier gas guiding passage for guiding a carrier gas into the underside of the primary filter; and a material delivering passage for discharging a mixed gas including the carrier gas and a vaporized liquid material from the top of the vaporizing chamber. The liquid material dropped down onto the primary filter is partially vaporized, while the rest thereof is atomized by being subjected to bubbling effect provided by the carrier gas flowing from underneath. | 03-12-2009 |
20090071542 | MICROVALVE HAVING MAGNETIC WAX PLUG AND FLUX CONTROL METHOD USING MAGNETIC WAX - Provided is a microvalve having a magnetic wax plug which includes a micro fluidic structure having an inlet portion and an outlet portion, a magnetic wax plug provided at a predetermined section where the inlet portion and the outlet portion meet, existing in a solid state, melted at a temperature higher than a predetermined temperature, and reversibly moving along a magnetic field, so as to control flux of a fluid through the micro fluidic structure, a heating portion provided corresponding to the section and heating the magnetic wax plug to be melted, and a magnetic field application portion selectively applying a magnetic field to a position where the melted magnetic wax plug arrives. | 03-19-2009 |
20090095352 | LARGE SCALE PULSED ENERGY WATER TREATMENT SYSTEM - A flow of fluid such as water is subjected to pulsed energy by dividing the flow into a plurality of divided flows; subjecting each divided flow to pulses of electromagnetic energy; and coalescing the plurality of divided flows into an output flow. A treatment apparatus includes a flow divider apparatus that has a inflow coupler and a plurality of conduits in fluid communication with the inflow coupler. Each conduit has a coil assembly thereon. The apparatus has a outflow coupler that is in fluid communication with each conduit. Coil assemblies on adjacent conduits may be staggered between the inflow coupler and the outflow coupler. The apparatus may include a control circuit for each coil assembly, for generating ringing pulses in the coil assembly. | 04-16-2009 |
20090107554 | HIGH POLYMER CONTENT HYBRID DRAG REDUCERS - A drag reducing composition comprising particles of at least two different drag reducing polymers. The different drag reducing polymers can be formed by different processes, such as bulk polymerization or emulsion polymerization, and the particles of the different drag reducing polymers can have different mean particle sizes. The drag reducing compositions can be added to a hydrocarbon-containing fluid to decrease the pressure drop associated with the turbulent flow of the hydrocarbon-containing fluid through a conduit. | 04-30-2009 |
20090107555 | Dual Function Fuel Atomizing and Ignition Additives - The present disclosure relates to methods and compositions for improving fuel atomization and combustion efficiency comprising fuel additives for use in combustion systems where fuel is injected into the combustion zone under very high pressure | 04-30-2009 |
20090114285 | FLOW CHANNEL STRUCTURE, FLOW CHANNEL BOARD HAVING THE SAME, AND FLUID CONTROL METHOD - A flow channel structure includes a first introduction part that introduces a sample, a second introduction part that introduces a fluid for sandwiching the sample, a discharge part that discharges the sample, a bent part at which a flow channel is bent at approximately 90 degrees around a Y axis, provided that an introduction direction of the sample is an X direction, and a bent part at which the flow channel is bent at approximately 90 degrees around an X axis. | 05-07-2009 |
20090133756 | METHOD OF TRANSPORTING A VISCOUS PRODUCT BY CORE ANNULAR FLOW - Method relating to the transportation of viscous products in a pipe by core annular flow, allowing to limit the restart pressures required for circulating the viscous product. | 05-28-2009 |
20090139578 | CENTRIFUGAL FORCE BASED PLATFORM, MICROFLUIDIC SYSTEM INCLUDING THE SAME, AND METHOD OF DETERMINING HOME POSITION OF THE PLATFORM - Provided are a centrifugal force based platform formed to be rotatable and including a home mark having a retro-reflective property of light, and a centrifugal force based microfluidic system including the platform. The method of determining a home position of the centrifugal force based platform includes: rotating the platform formed and including a home mark having a retro-reflective property of light; emitting light from a light-emitting unit to the platform; and detecting the emitted light, which is retro-reflected by the home mark, in a light-receiving unit, and then determining the home position of the platform based on the detected light. | 06-04-2009 |
20090165862 | Outlet device for disinfection apparatus and method for liquid transfer - An embodiment of the present invention discloses a method for liquid transfer and a liquid disinfection apparatus for cleaning of objects, such as health care objects. The disinfection apparatus includes a chamber which is arranged to receive said objects for cleaning, a spray system including nozzles for distributing liquid in the chamber, and an outlet tank connected to a sewer system. The chamber is adapted to receive a liquid volume which is being circulated by the spray system including nozzles for cleaning of objects. In at least one embodiment, the disinfection apparatus further includes a rapid transfer port which is liquid flow connected between the chamber and an outlet tank so as to constitute an immediate transfer of the first volume from the chamber to the outlet tank, essentially without any tubing arranged between the chamber and the outlet tank. | 07-02-2009 |
20090178716 | System and Method for Acoustic Focusing Hardware and Implementations - The present invention is a method and apparatus for acoustic focusing hardware and implementations. | 07-16-2009 |
20090183778 | TANK WITHDRAWAL SYSTEM WITH ELECTRIC AND FLUIDIC HEATING DEVICE - The invention relates to a tank withdrawal system for a vehicle tank filled with a frozen liquid. The tank withdrawal system comprises a heating system comprising at least one electric heating element as primary heating device and a conduit system provided with at least one withdrawal conduit with a withdrawal opening arranged in the vehicle tank. The cold start volume of the frozen liquid extending around the withdrawal opening can be melted by the primary heating device. To quickly melt a cold start volume while melting off the remaining frozen liquid consuming as minimal amount of energy, the heating system comprises a secondary heating device supplied with a heating fluid and the conduit system comprises at least one heating conduit through which the heating fluid can flow and which is arranged in the liquid in the vehicle tank. | 07-23-2009 |
20090211645 | VIBRATION-DRIVEN DROPLET TRANSPORT DEVICES HAVING TEXTURED SURFACES - Methods and devices for moving a droplet on an elongated track on a textured surface using vibration. The elongated track on the textured surface includes a plurality of transverse arcuate projections such that a droplet on the surface is in the Fakir state and when the surface is vibrated the droplet is urged along the track as a result of an imbalance in the adhesion of a front portion of the droplet and a back portion of the droplet to the textured surface. | 08-27-2009 |
20090242036 | Directed-flow conduit - Device including channel having channel input and output. Channel has interior channel surface extending along channel path from channel input to output. In one implementation, channel includes plurality of channel sections in serial communication along channel path. Each of channel sections includes first internal circumference spaced apart along channel path from second internal circumference, in each of channel sections the first and second internal circumferences being substantially different. Each of channel sections includes sub-surface of interior channel surface. At least region of sub-surface of each channel section includes distribution of raised micro-scale features. As another implementation, at least first region of interior channel surface includes distribution of raised micro-scale features interrupted by plurality of raised barriers spaced apart along channel path on interior channel surface. Each raised barrier extends on interior channel surface in directions partially transverse to and partially parallel to longitudinal axis. Method also provided. | 10-01-2009 |
20090260692 | AUTONOMOUS ELECTROCHEMICAL ACTUATION OF MICROFLUIDIC CIRCUITS - A microfluidic structure with an electrically controlled pressure source is shown. The pressure source is an electrolyte connected with electrodes. Dissociation of the electrolyte generates the pressure, which is used to obtain a valve-like or pump-like behavior inside the microfluidic structure. A process for manufacturing the microfluidic structure and a method to circulate fluids in a microfluidic channel are also described. | 10-22-2009 |
20100006158 | FLUID JET FOR TUBS - A fluid jet for injecting fluids in the liquid of a tub through a throughbore in a wall of the tub comprises a gas injector with a hollow body having a gas inlet receiving a gas flow from a pressurized gas source. A gas outlet produces a flux of gas with the gas flow. A liquid injector comprises a hollow body with a liquid inlet connected to a pressurized liquid source to receive a liquid flow therefrom. A liquid outlet produces a flux of liquid with the liquid flow, the gas injector being received in the hollow body of the liquid injector, for the gas outlet and the liquid outlet to form a common jet outlet. The liquid injector is secured to the wall of the tub opposite the throughbore such that fluids exiting the common jet outlet are directed concurrently through the throughbore into the liquid of the tub. | 01-14-2010 |
20100051111 | SLIT VALVE CONTROL - Embodiments disclosed herein generally relate to methods for sealing a processing chamber with a slit valve door. The door initially raises from a position below the opening for the processing chamber to a raised position. The door then expands until an O-ring that is on the door just touches the sealing surface. Then, the door expands again to compress the O-ring against the sealing surface. The door expands by flowing a gas into the interior volume of the door. By controlling the pressure buildup within the door, the speed with which the door expands is controlled to ensure that the door gently contacts the sealing surface and then compresses against the sealing surface. Thus, the door may be prevented from contacting the sealing surface with too great a force that may jolt or shake the processing chamber and produce undesired particles that may contaminate the process. | 03-04-2010 |
20100059122 | Controlling Fluid Through an Array Of Fluid Flow Paths - A method of controlling fluid through a layer of a soft compressible (e.g., gel) material including an array of fluid flow paths. The fluid flow paths are normally open, allowing fluid flow. An electric field is applied in regions where fluid flow is undesirable. The electric field compresses the material closing the flow path thereby preventing further fluid flow. | 03-11-2010 |
20100089461 | Removing Non-Condensable Gas from a Subambient Cooling System - In certain embodiments, removing non-condensable gas from a cooling system includes trapping contents of a discharge tube of a heat exchanger, where the heat exchanger is in thermal communication with an ambient environment at an ambient temperature. The contents of the discharge tube comprises a vapor portion of a cooling fluid, a liquid portion of the cooling fluid, and a non-condensable gas. The cooling fluid is at a subambient pressure, and the ambient temperature is lower than a boiling point of the cooling fluid. A first additional portion of the cooling fluid is inlet into the discharge tube to increase a pressure within the discharge tube. The vapor portion of the cooling fluid within the discharge tube is allowed to condense. A second additional portion of the cooling fluid is inlet to purge the non-condensable gas from the discharge tube. | 04-15-2010 |
20100096019 | VARIABLE FLOW RESHAPABLE FLOW RESTRICTOR APPARATUS AND RELATED METHODS - A novel apparatus and associated methods for controlling the flow through a flow restrictor using a reshapable lumen. The lumen reshapes as a function of the pressure differential over the flow restrictor. Because flow rate is proportional by the fourth order of magnitude to the diameter of the lumen, small changes in the pressure differential allow for larger changes in the flow rate over conventional flow restrictor systems and provides for real time, fine-tuned adjustments to the flow rate. | 04-22-2010 |
20100101655 | BALLAST SYSTEM - The present embodiments relate to ballast systems for marine structures. The ballast system comprises a ballast tank and a pump. The pump comprises a low side and a high side and the ballast system comprises a first inlet conduit assembly adapted to provide a fluid communication between the ballast tank and the low side. The ballast system is adapted to provide a first operating condition in which first operating condition a fluid is pumped from the low side to the high side. | 04-29-2010 |
20100132801 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR MICROREACTOR FLUID DISTRIBUTION - A microreactor includes a plurality of interconnected microstructures arranged in m process units with the process units configured to be operable together in parallel. Each of the m process units has a number n of respective process fluid inlets, wherein a number y of the n respective process fluid inlets are connected individually to respective non-manifolded fluid pumps, and wherein a number n minus y of the n respective process fluid inlets are connected to a respective manifolded fluid pump via a manifold, wherein y is an integer from 1 to n-1 inclusive. | 06-03-2010 |
20100139776 | DRIVEN SEPARATOR FOR GAS SEAL PANELS - A system and method for supplying clean dry gas to gas seals of a compressor. The system uses a rotary separator magnetically coupled to a source of rotational power, along with a gas stream cooling unit configured to condensate liquids out of a wet gas stream before the wet gas stream is supplied to the rotating separator. The system may further include a gas stream pressure booster, a heating unit to heat a dry gas stream generated by the rotary separator, and a controlled recirculation loop configured to continually recirculate the wet gas through the driven rotary separator until a desired amount of condensates are removed from the wet gas stream. | 06-10-2010 |
20100154892 | LIQUID FLOW CONTROL AND BEVERAGE PREPARATION APPARATUSES, METHODS AND SYSTEMS - Apparatuses, methods and systems for liquid flow control and beverage preparation are disclosed. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention include liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsules, pods, cartridges, pouches, systems, and modules for controlling and directing flow streams of liquid through a beverage preparation process. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention may be used in combination with or included as an integral assembly of any apparatus, method or system for liquid dispension. | 06-24-2010 |
20100154893 | DRAG REDUCING POLYMERS FOR LOW MOLECULAR WEIGHT LIQUIDS APPLICATIONS - A method for drag reducing low molecular weight liquids is provided. More specifically, a method to separate drag reducers from low molecular weight liquids, such as hydrocarbons and anhydrous ammonia, is provided. | 06-24-2010 |
20100180953 | Thermally Induced Single-Use Valves and Method of Use - In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a thermally induced single-use valve is provided including a silicon wafer having a top surface and a bottom surface and at least one cavity formed in the bottom surface of the wafer, a thermally deformable membrane suspended across the cavity on the top surface of the wafer and at least one resistive element patterned on top of the thermally deformable membrane. | 07-22-2010 |
20100186825 | PIPE ASSEMBLY WITH SCOOP FOR DIRECTING FLUID INTO A STANDPIPE AND FOR MITIGATING ACOUSTIC AND VORTEX COUPLED RESONANCE - A piping assembly for directing fluid and mitigating acoustic and vortex coupled resonance is provided that includes a main pipe delivering fluid in a first direction; a standpipe coupled to the main pipe at an intersection; and a scoop positioned at the intersection directing the fluid towards the standpipe. A scooping insert and a method for disrupting vortex shedding in a piping assembly are also provided. | 07-29-2010 |
20100200073 | FLUID TRANSPORT DEVICE AND FLUID TRANSPORT CONTROL METHOD - A fluid transport device transports fluid containing electrolytes within a flow channel. At least a portion of the inner walls of the flow channels are hydrophilic from the inlet to the outlet thereof except at least one valve portion. The device also includes: the valve portions, which are hydrophobic and function to block transport of at least one fluid; electrodes, which are provided at the at least one valve portion and function to reduce the surface tension of the fluid; and air vents, which are provided at the at least one valve portion and function to introduce air in order to block the fluid. | 08-12-2010 |
20100200074 | Fluid Control Platform and System - A fluid control platform that may control various fluid control components and is scalable by connecting with additional substantially identical platforms, as well as related systems, methods of manufacturing the same, and methods of fluid control are disclosed. the platform may include a programmable controller, a power supply, a data input, a data output device, and/or a networking connection, among other things. A coordinated fluid control system may include multiple networked platforms, which may be networked to each other in, for example, a ring. The programmable controller may be provided with hardware that permits operation of each of a plurality of fluid control components, some of which may be intelligent fluid control components. | 08-12-2010 |
20100212749 | MOTOR CONTROLLED SPEED PIPELINE APPARATUS AND METHOD - A pipeline apparatus has a body configured to fit inside a pipeline. A flow channel is formed within the body and includes an inlet, an outlet, and a bypass channel connecting the inlet and the outlet, the inlet being configured to receive a portion of a fluid flowing through the pipeline, and the outlet being configured such that the fluid flowing through the bypass channel flows out of the bypass channel through the outlet. A flow control valve is attached to the body and has a sleeve configured to move to vary a flow rate of the fluid flowing out of the outlet. A motor is provided in a chamber in the body and is configured to move the sleeve. | 08-26-2010 |
20100224260 | Anti-Siphoning Device And System - An anti-siphoning fuel system that includes a fuel inlet, a fuel tank, at least one fill tube connecting the fuel inlet to the fuel tank such that fuel may flow from the fuel inlet to the fuel tank, and an anti-siphoning element or device coupled to the fill tube that obstructs a siphoning hose inserted in to the fill tube from entering the fuel tank. The fill tube comprises at least one bend between the fuel inlet and the anti-siphoning element or device. | 09-09-2010 |
20100229955 | Increasing Fluidity of a Flowing Fluid - There is disclosed apparatus and processes for increasing fluidity of a flowing fluid. The apparatus may have a number of treatment chambers adapted to receive and pass the flowing fluid. In each treatment chamber a field is applied to the fluid. The fields may be parallel to the fluid's direction of flow, and may alternate in sequence. The fluidity of the fluid is increased through exposure to the fields. | 09-16-2010 |
20100236633 | PIPES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR TRANSPORTING FLUIDS - There is disclosed a system adapted to transport two fluids and a gas comprising a nozzle comprising a first nozzle portion comprising the first fluid and the gas, and a second nozzle portion comprising the second fluid, wherein the second nozzle portion has a larger diameter than and is about the first nozzle portion; and a tubular fluidly connected to and downstream of the nozzle, the tubular comprising the first fluid and the gas in a core, and the second fluid about the core. | 09-23-2010 |
20100236634 | Method of Formation of Hydrate Particles in a Water-Containing Hydrocarbon Fluid Flow - The present invention relates to a method of adding nucleation seeds in order to promote the formation of hydrate particles in a flow containing hydrocarbon fluids and water. The method may include adding nucleation seeds at a point in the flow before the hydrate-forming area, the nucleation seeds being available for the promotion of the hydrate formation when this area is reached. The invention also relates to use of various compounds for the promotion of hydrate formation in such a fluid flow, thereby forming a transportable hydrate slurry. | 09-23-2010 |
20100243066 | Closed-Loop Sensor Tester for Simulating Open-Area Releases - A system and method for closed-loop testing of a biological or chemical sensor is disclosed. The tester is fluidically coupled to the input port and exhaust port of a sensor. A mixture of a chemical or biological simulant and air is generated by the tester and is delivered to the sensor. The mixture of simulant and air exiting the sensor is delivered to a collection device. | 09-30-2010 |
20100258197 | METHOD FOR TRANSPORTING FLUID - There is provided a method for transporting a fluid, in which even if the fluid is transported for a long period of time, dehydration after transportation is not needed, and the transported fluid can be used immediately after transportation. Specifically, there is provided a method for transporting a fluid, comprising steps of: dehydrating some of the transportation fluid during transportation by using a dehydration system comprising a separation membrane through which water permeates, and returning the dehydrated fluid to the transportation fluid so as to keep water content in the transportation fluid in a fixed range. In one embodiment, the transportation fluid is a liquid, and the dehydration system comprises a heater for heating the liquid to a temperature in a range in which the liquid does not boil, and a membrane separation apparatus for dehydrating the heated liquid, wherein the membrane separation apparatus is a PV method apparatus comprising a primary side chamber extending in an up and down direction to introduce the liquid from a lower portion thereof and discharge it from an upper portion thereof, a separation membrane in contact with the primary side chamber to allow water in the liquid to permeate through as a gas, and a secondary side chamber being located on the opposite side to the primary side chamber with the separation membrane held therebetween and being under a pressure lower than that in the primary side chamber. | 10-14-2010 |
20100263734 | METHODS AND SYSTEM FOR COOLING A REACTION EFFLUENT GAS - In one embodiment, a method for cooling a reaction effluent gas includes feeding a sufficient amount of a suitable silicon source cooling gas into a stream of the reaction effluent gas, wherein the reaction effluent gas is produced by a thermal decomposition of at least one silicon source gas in a reactor, and wherein sufficient amount of the suitable silicon source cooling gas is defined based a concentration of the at least one chemical species in the reaction effluent gas; cooling the reaction effluent gas to a sufficient temperature so that: the cooled reaction effluent gas is capable of being handled by a material that is not suitable for handling the reaction effluent gas. | 10-21-2010 |
20100276006 | ULTRASONIC DRAG MODULATION - Drag experienced by a vehicle travelling through an environmental media, such as air, is actively modulated by an energy beam which may either increase or decrease the drag. The energy beam may provide either a chemical, acoustic, or electromagnetic energy at a transition region between turbulent and laminar flow or at the leading edge of a laminar flow, or in the direction of a crosswind, in order to facilitate the respective increase or decrease in drag. An energy beam may be directed in a rearwards direction, relative to a direction of travel. | 11-04-2010 |
20100288370 | TEXTILE HAVING WATER TRANSPORT AND HEATING CAPABILITIES - A textile ( | 11-18-2010 |
20100307601 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CONDITIONING A SUSPENSION CONTAINING MAGNETIZABLE PARTICLES - Methods comprising: providing a suspension comprising magnetizable particles; and delivering the suspension through a gap ( | 12-09-2010 |
20100307602 | System and Method for Processing High Purity Materials - Systems and methods for processing high purity materials are disclosed. A unit operation processes a material stream, an operational parameter of the unit operation is monitored, and a standby unit is charged with pressurized gas to achieve system pressure. The material stream is diverted to the standby unit in response to the operational parameter of the unit operation registering a threshold value. Flow exiting the standby unit is first vented via an outlet, and then directed toward a point of use after the pressurized gas has been purged. The unit operation may then be serviced and subsequently brought back online. A second unit operation may process a second material stream simultaneously, and the second material stream may be periodically diverted to the standby unit in like manner, thus reducing line pressure variation. The disclosed method may be performed manually or implemented automatically through use of a controller. | 12-09-2010 |
20100326534 | SYSTEM & METHOD FOR REDUCING VISCOUS FORCE BETWEEN A FLUID AND A SURFACE - A metamaterial has a magnetic permeability response at frequencies sufficient to generate a repulsive force between a fluid and a surface to which the metamaterial may be applied. The metamaterial may be nanofabricated such that an absolute value of the magnetic permeability of the metamaterial is substantially greater than an absolute value of an electric permittivity of the metamaterial. The metamaterial may generate a repulsive force between the surface and the fluid moving relative to the surface and thereby reduce viscous drag of the fluid on the surface. A method of reducing the viscous drag of the fluid moving past the surface includes producing relative motion between the surface and the fluid and generating the repulsive force between the surface and the fluid. | 12-30-2010 |
20110000552 | DYNAMIC LEAK CONTROL FOR SYSTEM WITH WORKING FLUID - An organic rankine cycle system includes a sensor for sensing a condition indicative of pressure within the system and a control which responsively provides heat to said system when the pressure within the system is sensed to be at a predetermined threshold, near ambient pressure, during periods in which the system is shut down or preparing to operate. Provision is also made to remove the heat from the system when the pressure therein rises to a predetermined higher pressure threshold. | 01-06-2011 |
20110011463 | Reducing drag on a mobile body - A vortex ring generator adapted to be associated with a body subjected to fluid flow, the vortex ring generator being adapted to produce a fluid flow in the form of a vortex ring with the fluid flow moving over the body from the vortex ring generator. | 01-20-2011 |
20110023970 | DEVICE FOR CREATING A MICROFLUIDIC CHANNEL STRUCTURE IN A CHAMBER - A device for creating a microfluidic channel structure includes two plates forming a chamber between the two plates. The chamber has at least one inlet for feeding a fluid into the chamber and at least one outlet for discharging the fluid out of the chamber. A cooling element is associated with at least one of the two plates for converting fluid disposed in the chamber into a solid. A plurality of heating elements is associated with at least a first of the two plates and distributed so as to provide, by a heating up of some of the heating elements so as to convert areas of the solid that are in a vicinity of the heating elements to the fluid, a channel structure leading from the at least one inlet through the chamber to the at least one outlet. The channel structure is configured to convey fluid flow. | 02-03-2011 |
20110023971 | Device for controlling the flow of fluids through microfluidic channels - A device for controlling a flow of fluids through n=2 | 02-03-2011 |
20110023972 | DISPERSE NON-POLYALPHAOLEFIN DRAG REDUCING POLYMERS - A drag reducing composition comprising at least one non-polyalphaolefin polymer having an average particle size in the range of from about 5 to about 800 micrometers. The non-polyalphaolefin polymer can initially be formed via emulsion polymerization. The initial polymer particles can then be at least partially consolidated and then reduced in size and suspended in a carrier fluid. The resulting drag reducing composition can be added to a hydrocarbon-containing fluid to decrease the pressure drop associated with the turbulent flow of the hydrocarbon-containing fluid through a conduit. | 02-03-2011 |
20110023973 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MANIPULATING FLUID MEDIUM - A system for manipulating a fluid medium is disclosed. The system comprises a plurality of particles suspended in the fluid medium, and a light source configured for irradiating the particles by light to induce nonlinear optical effects. The particles are constituted such that the nonlinear optical effects result in drag forces exerted by the particles on the fluid medium. The magnitude of the drag forces is sufficient to establish hydrodynamic flow of the fluid medium. | 02-03-2011 |
20110030807 | FLUID AMPLIFIER - A fluid amplifier which includes a housing, a fluid input into the housing, a fluid output from the housing, the fluid amplifier characterised in that it includes at least one secondary fluid conduit with at least one localised port located within the housing. | 02-10-2011 |
20110030808 | PULSED LASER TRIGGERED HIGH SPEED MICROFLUIDIC SWITCH AND APPLICATIONS IN FLUORESCENT ACTIVATED CELL SORTING - In certain embodiments this invention provides a pulsed-laser triggered microfluidic switching mechanism that can achieve a switching time of 70 μs. This switching speed is two orders of magnitude shorter than that of the fastest switching mechanism utilized in previous μFACS. | 02-10-2011 |
20110030809 | FLUID PROCESSING AND TRANSFER USING INTER-CONNECTED MULTI-CHAMBER DEVICE - A micro-fluidic device comprises a body. The body defines pneumatic ports, chambers for receiving liquids, and a connecting conduit. Each port is sealed with a seal and is shaped to couple to a pneumatic conduit through the seal. At least some of the chambers each have a top opening and a bottom opening. The top openings are in fluid communication with corresponding ports. The bottom openings are in fluid communication with one another through the connecting conduit, which is above the bottom openings. Selective application of pneumatic pressures to the chambers through the pneumatic conduits can transfer a liquid from one chamber to another through the connecting conduit, for example, for processing bio-samples within the device. | 02-10-2011 |
20110041922 | CONTROLLED LIQUID HANDLING - The present invention relates to methods, devices and apparatuses for performing controlled liquid handling, and particularly, for performing controlled liquid handling in micro conduit systems. The invention involves pressing the liquid to be controlled against an enclosed gas to pressurize the gas, and controlling the flow of the liquid by controlling the subsequent evacuation of the pressurized gas. The present invention may be use for liquid handling in chemical and biomedical analysis systems. | 02-24-2011 |
20110079289 | MICROVALVE HAVING MAGNETIC WAX PLUG AND FLUX CONTROL METHOD USING MAGNETIC WAX - Provided is a microvalve having a magnetic wax plug which includes a micro fluidic structure having an inlet portion and an outlet portion, a magnetic wax plug provided at a predetermined section where the inlet portion and the outlet portion meet, existing in a solid state, melted at a temperature higher than a predetermined temperature, and reversibly moving along a magnetic field, so as to control flux of a fluid through the micro fluidic structure, a heating portion provided corresponding to the section and heating the magnetic wax plug to be melted, and a magnetic field application portion selectively applying a magnetic field to a position where the melted magnetic wax plug arrives. | 04-07-2011 |
20110083751 | VORTEX GENERATOR - A vortex generator, designed to bring a medium into a controlled vortex motion, with a hollow inlet section ( | 04-14-2011 |
20110100475 | BOUNDARY LAYER ENERGISER - A boundary layer energiser ( | 05-05-2011 |
20110100476 | VALVE UNIT, MICROFLUIDIC DEVICE HAVING THE SAME, AND METHOD OF DRIVING THE VALVE UNIT - A normally open valve unit to close a channel, a microfluidic device equipped with the same, and a method of driving the valve unit are provided. The valve unit includes a valve substance including a phase transition material, a valve substance chamber which communicates with the channel and in which the valve substance is disposed, and a fusion structure formed in a section of the channel in which ,wherein when the valve substance contained in the valve substance chamber is fused by applied energy and flows into the section of the channel in which the fusion structure is formed, and the valve substance is heated to melt the fusion structure and conduct fused bonding of the channel, thereby closing the channel. | 05-05-2011 |
20110114192 | APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING DROPLET MOTION IN ELECTRIC FIELD AND METHOD OF THE SAME - The present invention relates to an apparatus for controlling droplet motion in an electric field by reducing volume of a single droplet to a very small volume using a strong electric field and controlling a position of a droplet using a repulsive force of the same polarity, and a method of the same. The apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a first electrode, an insulator disposed above the first electrode, a discharge tip disposed above the insulator by a predetermined distance and dividing a transferred fluid into a small volume of a droplet, and a second electrode contacting the fluid supplied through the discharge tip. The first electrode and the second electrode may form an electric field at an end of the discharge tip by forming a potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode. | 05-19-2011 |
20110126914 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR HANDLING SOLIDS IN MICROFLUIDIC SYSTEMS - Systems and methods related to handling solids in microfluidic systems are generally described. Many of the systems and methods described herein address the need to inhibit the formation of blockages in microfluidic channels. | 06-02-2011 |
20110132466 | DRAG REDUCING COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE AND USE - A drag reducing composition comprising a primary polyolefin obtained by polymerizing mono-olefins containing from about 2 to about 30 carbon atoms, and a surfactant having an HLB in the range of 6.5 to 8.5 in an aqueous suspending media. | 06-09-2011 |
20110139262 | Process of preparing improved heavy and extra heavy crude oil emulsions by use of biosurfactants in water and product thereof - The present invention provides a process, which allows working with viscous petroleum referred to as “heavy and extra heavy crudes” by adding an appropriate biosurfactant to an aqueous phase containing a biosurfactant active compound. The result is the formation of a stable crude/water emulsion even with salt present therein. | 06-16-2011 |
20110146806 | Method and device for reducing water friction on the hull of a ship - The invention relates to a method for reducing water friction on the hull of a ship, particularly a canal boat, in which a gas is introduced between the hull and the surrounding water below the water level. The inventive method is characterized in that the gas is introduced into the water in an upper area of the hull close to the water level and that, when the ship is in motion with a resulting water flow along the hull, the introduced gas is guided aftwards into a lower lying area of the hull, particularly below the ship's bottom. The invention also relates to a device for reducing water friction on the hull of a ship. | 06-23-2011 |
20110162722 | PROCESS FOR REDUCING THE RESTART PRESSURE OF STREAMS SELECTED FROM WAXY CRUDE OILS, WATER-IN-CRUDE EMULSIONS AND DISPERSIONS OF HYDROCARBON HYDRATES - For reducing the restart pressure of streams selected from waxy crude oils, water-in-crude emulsions and dispersions of hydrocarbon hydrates, at least partially structured, a mechanic disturbance is applied, in flow-stop conditions, on the streams, The temperatures are lower than the WAT (Wax Appearance Temperature) for the waxy crude oils and water-in-crude emulsions. The temperatures are laso lower than the forming temperatures of said hydrates and pressures higher than the forming pressure of said hydrates, for the dispersions of hydrocarbon hydrates. | 07-07-2011 |
20110162723 | HYDRAULIC FLUID COMPOSITION THAT REDUCES HYDRAULIC SYSTEM NOISE - Noise generation in a hydraulic system is reduced by contacting a hydraulic fluid comprising a polyalkyl(meth)acrylate polymer with a hydraulic system. | 07-07-2011 |
20110168273 | METHOD AND DEVICES FOR REGULATING THE FLOW RATE AND FOR SLOWING DOWN NON-FERROMAGNETIC, ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTING LIQUIDS AND MELTS - The invention relates to a method for regulating the flow rate and for slowing down non-ferromagnetic, electrically conducting liquids and melt streams through magnetic fields, in particular in the tapping of metallurgical containers such as blast furnaces and melt furnaces. The method is characterized in that the melt stream is routed in a closed routing element using at least one stationary magnetic field with a constant polarity, at least one stationary magnetic alternating field or using a multi-poled magnetic travelling field, in such a way that the magnetic field lines transversally penetrate the melt flow across the entire cross section thereof and such that a voltage is induced in the melt stream by the magnetic fields, there being eddy currents induced thereby in the melt stream that are disposed radially and axially when a stationary magnetic field of constant polarity is used and that are disposed axially when a stationary alternating magnetic field or electromagnetic travelling field is used, and that due to the interactions between the magnetic fields and the eddy currents forces are generated that can affect the flow rate of the melt stream. | 07-14-2011 |
20110174384 | REAL-TIME CONTROL OF EXHAUST FLOW - A flow control system for controlling exhaust flow can measure effluent escaping from the exhaust hood at a given flow rate. An interferometric detector can measure fluctuations in fluid properties external to and/or in the vicinity of the exhaust hood. The flow control system may vary a flow rate of the exhaust hood and/or control exhaust hood structures responsive to the measurements to contain the effluent while minimizing the exhaust of air from the occupied space. | 07-21-2011 |
20110174385 | ELECTROMAGNETIC SYSTEM - An electromagnetic system includes a channel and at least one chamber comprising a first end and a second end. The channel traverses at least a portion of a longitudinal length of the at least one chamber, whereby the channel enters the chamber at the first end and exits the chamber at the second end. The channel includes an internal cavity for allowing materials to flow therein and be exposed to electromagnetic energy. In one embodiment, the chamber is designed so that the materials in the channel is exposed to lower electromagnetic energy at the first end of the chamber and exposed to a higher electromagnetic energy at the second end of the chamber | 07-21-2011 |
20110203673 | Microjet Control for Flow & Noise Reduction in Automotive Applications - The present invention comprises a method and associated devices for reducing the noise produced by an open cavity within a moving automobile (such as open sunroofs and open windows). The invention proposes placing microjet orifices proximate the open cavity. These inject small but rapidly moving columns of air into the prevailing flow. The projected columns reduce the formation of large coherent structures in the prevailing flow. As these large coherent structures are a critical component of the resonance which is responsible for much of the noise produced across the open cavity, the overall noise level is reduced by the microjets. | 08-25-2011 |
20110240131 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SCALE INHIBITION - The present invention discloses methods for inhibiting scale formation or precipitate formation in oil field flow lines and processing equipment exposed to fluid containing components that form scale or precipitates on surfaces of oil field flow lines and processing equipment, especially in highly paraffinic crude oils, where the method and system include applying an electric field across the fluid flowing through a flow line, where the fluid includes a scale or precipitate inhibitor and where the fluid strength and the inhibitor concentration is sufficient to reduce or prevent scale or precipitant formation. | 10-06-2011 |
20110247698 | REDUCING FLUID TURBULANCE IN A FLEXIBLE PIPE - A method and apparatus for reducing fluid turbulence in a flexible pipe are disclosed. The method includes the steps of urging an elongate roll of liner material along a bore region provided by an inner surface of an innermost layer of a flexible pipe body, and at least partially unfurling the roll of liner material thereby extending the roll of liner material radially outwardly in the bore region into an abutting relationship against the inner surface of the carcass. | 10-13-2011 |
20110247699 | Use of a zwitterionic surfactant together with an anionic ether-containing surfactant as a drag-reducing agent - The present invention relates to the use of a zwitterionic surfactant in combination with an ether sulphate or ether carboxylate surfactant in a water-based system as a drag-reducing agent. The combination has besides a high drag-reducing effect also a low sensitivity to hard water. | 10-13-2011 |
20110272036 | HYDRAULIC HEATER VALVE - Provided is a valve assembly having a thermal valve member and a priority valve member that are shiftable to first and second positions in response to a temperature and pressure of a fluid flowing through the valve assembly. Consequently, the valve can provide for flow through a heating orifice under low temperature, high pressure conditions so that pressure drops in fluid lines coupled to the valve assembly may be prevented or reduced, allowing fluid lines with small diameters to be used in an aircraft or other fluid flow system, thereby reducing the weight of the aircraft or fluid flow system. | 11-10-2011 |
20110277848 | Acoustical Fluid Control Mechanism - An acoustical fluid control mechanism and a method of controlling fluid flow of a working fluid with the acoustical fluid control mechanism are provided. The mechanism comprises a resonance chamber that defines a cavity. The resonance chamber has a port. The cavity is sealed from the ambient but for the port for enabling oscillatory flow of a working fluid into and out of the cavity upon exposure of the resonance chamber to an acoustic signal containing a tone at a frequency that is substantially similar to a particular resonance frequency of the resonance chamber. The mechanism further includes a rectifier for introducing directional bias to the oscillatory flow of the working fluid through the port. The rectifier has an inlet connected to the port and an outlet for transmitting the directional flow of the working fluid away from the cavity. The outlet is in fluid communication with the port of the resonance chamber at least during transmission of the directional flow of the working fluid therethrough. | 11-17-2011 |
20110297239 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR THE ELECTROMAGNETIC STIRRING OF ELECTRICALLY CONDUCTIVE FLUIDS - The invention relates to a method and to a device for the electromagnetic stirring of electrically conductive fluids in the liquid state and/or in the state of onsetting solidification of the fluid, using a rotating magnetic field that is produced in the horizontal plane of a Lorentz force. The aim is to achieve an intensive three-dimensional flow on the inside of the fluid for mixing in the liquid state up to the direct vicinity of solidifying fronts, and to simultaneously ensure an undisturbed, free surface of the fluid. The solution is to change the direction of rotation of the magnetic field rotating in the horizontal plane at regular time intervals in the form of a period duration, wherein the frequency of the directional change of movement of the magnetic field vector is adjusted such that in the state of mixing the liquid fluid a period duration is adjusted between two directional changes of the magnetic field during a time interval as a function of the adjustment time with the condition (I) 0.5.ti.a12-08-2011 | |
20110308628 | WATER HEATER DRAIN HOSE AND METHOD OF USE - A drain hose and method for improving the flow of water from a water heater during draining by cleaning the drain valve of the water heater and the water hose. The apparatus and method provide improved drainage, where the improvement is provided by inclusion of an agitator for agitating the drainage water, wherein such agitation disturbs and removes debris within the drain valve of the water heater and within the drain hose itself. | 12-22-2011 |
20120000544 | DRAG REDUCTION OF ASPHALTENIC CRUDE OILS - The process begins by obtaining a first batch of monomers selected from a group of acrylates with a molecular weight equal to or less than butyl acrylate and/or methacrylate with a molecular weight equal to or less than butyl methacrylate. A second batch of monomers is then selected from a group of acrylates with a molecular weight greater than butyl acrylate and/or methacrylate with a molecular weight greater than butyl methacrylate. A mixture is then prepared by mixing the first batch of monomers and the second batch of monomers, wherein the second batch of monomers are greater than 50% by weight of the mixture. Finally, the mixture is polymerized to produce a drag reducing polymer. The drag reducing polymer is capable of imparting drag reducing properties in liquid hydrocarbons. | 01-05-2012 |
20120012189 | SIPHON WEIR VALVE FOR HIGH FLOW MUNICIPAL WATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS - A device allows a liquid to flow between two open structures with different liquid surface elevations separated by a wall. The device has a conduit with an inlet on one side of the wall and an outlet on the other side of the wall separated by a high point above the expected liquid surface elevation. The conduit also has two valved openings, one connected to a source of suction that can evacuate air from the conduit and the other connected to a vent. In one example, the conduit is formed between a pair of spaced transverse walls attached to an arched cover. The transverse walls each have a slot allowing the device to be placed on top of a dividing wall between two tanks with surfaces of the dividing wall defining part of the conduit. In an example with multiple conduits, one or more interior walls are provided between a pair of end walls and a cover over the interior and end walls may be provided in segments. To initiate flow, a conduit is evacuated of sufficient air to allow a siphon to develop. To stop the flow, sufficient air is allowed to enter the conduit through the vent valve to break the siphon. To control the rate of flow in a device with multiple conduits, flow can be permitted in just some of the conduits. Flowrate through a conduit can also be varied by controlling the volume of air at the top of a conduit. | 01-19-2012 |
20120018001 | Method for Improved Performance of a Functional Fluid - In accordance with the invention, it has been discovered that the performance of a functional fluid, such as a lubricant, can be improved by following a method of operating a functional fluid using device, such as an engine, comprising: supplying to the device a functional fluid composition comprising an additive package; operating the device containing the functional fluid composition; and adding to the functional fluid composition, during the operation of the device, a supplemental additive package; resulting in a performance improvement of the functional fluid composition during its service life and/or an extension of the functional fluid composition's service life, and so an improvement in the performance of the device. | 01-26-2012 |
20120037236 | MANIPULATION OF MAGNETIC PARTICLES IN CONDUITS FOR THE PROPAGATION OF DOMAIN WALLS - A system and a method for the controlled manipulation of any number of magnetic particles in solution are shown. The system and the method of the present invention are based on the employment of magnetic conduits properly structured in order to inject, move and annihilate with high precision magnetic domain walls and on the fact that said magnetic domain walls exert a high attraction force on magnetic particles. The injection, movement and annihilation of domain walls along said magnetic conduit result, therefore, in the trapping, movement and release, respectively, of single magnetic particles placed in solution in proximity of said magnetic conduits. The devices of the present invention guarantee the possibility of a digital transfer of magnetic particles along conduits formed by linear segments as well as high control and nanometric precision in the manipulation of said magnetic particles on curved conduits. | 02-16-2012 |
20120060934 | PIPELINE FLUID HEATING SYSTEM - A system for heating fluid lines to prevent freezing and ice build up. Heated fluid lines are utilized within the pipeline to achieve improved thermal transfer. | 03-15-2012 |
20120073671 | QUANTUM REACTION METHOD AND DEVICE THEREOF - A quantum reaction method and a device thereof. The quantum reaction method includes steps of: providing a first reaction space and a second reaction space. Building at least one magnetic force tunnel set between the first and second reaction spaces. Building at least one agitation magnetic field set in at least one of the first and second reaction spaces. Filling into the first and second reaction spaces a reaction fluid approximately at the pressure and temperature of liquid-gas interface (boiling point curve); and turning on the agitation magnetic field set to agitate the reaction fluid, whereby the magnetic force tunnel set guides the reaction fluid to back and forth flow between the first and second reaction spaces to alternately react. | 03-29-2012 |
20120085423 | Electromagnetic flow regulator, system, and methods for regulating flow of an electrically conductive fluid - Disclosed embodiments include electromagnetic flow regulators for regulating flow of an electrically conductive fluid, systems for regulating flow of an electrically conductive fluid, methods of regulating flow of an electrically conductive fluid, nuclear fission reactors, systems for regulating flow of an electrically conductive reactor coolant, and methods of regulating flow of an electrically conductive reactor coolant in a nuclear fission reactor. | 04-12-2012 |
20120090691 | QUARTZ SHOWERHEAD FOR NANOCURE UV CHAMBER - Embodiments of the invention generally provide apparatuses and methods for controlling the gas flow profile within a processing chamber. In one embodiment, a processing tool includes an ultraviolet processing chamber defining a processing region, a substrate support, a window disposed between a UV radiation source and the substrate support, and a transparent showerhead disposed within the processing region between the window and the substrate support and having one or more transparent showerhead passages between upper and lower processing regions. The processing tool also includes a gas distribution ring having one or more gas distribution ring passages between a gas distribution ring inner channel and the upper processing region and a gas outlet ring positioned below the gas distribution ring, the gas outlet ring having one or more gas outlet passages between a gas outlet ring inner channel within the gas outlet ring and the lower processing region. | 04-19-2012 |
20120097257 | SURFACE TENSION CONTROLLED VALVES - The present teachings relate to surface tension controlled valves used for handling biological fluids. The valves controlled by optically actuating an electro-wetting circuit. | 04-26-2012 |
20120103428 | VAPORIZATION CHAMBERS AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - A vaporization chamber may include at least one conduit and a shell. The at least one conduit may have an inlet at a first end, an outlet at a second end and a flow path therebetween. The shell may surround a portion of each conduit and define a chamber surrounding the portion of each conduit. Additionally, a plurality of discrete apertures may be positioned at longitudinal intervals in a wall of each conduit, each discrete aperture of the plurality of discrete apertures sized and configured to direct a jet of fluid into each conduit from the chamber. A liquid may be vaporized by directing a first fluid comprising a liquid into the inlet at the first end of each conduit, directing jets of a second fluid into each conduit from the chamber through discrete apertures in a wall of each conduit and transferring heat from the second fluid to the first fluid. | 05-03-2012 |
20120118395 | REPETITIVE PRESSURE-PULSE APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CAVITATION DAMAGE RESEARCH - An apparatus for inducing cavitation at a surface of a specimen includes a cavitation chamber, a window extending through the wall of the chamber to an area outside the chamber, a test specimen positioned within the chamber, and a cavitation media inside the chamber and in contact with the surface of the specimen. A laser light source is disposed outside the chamber, and is operable to provide a laser beam through the window and into the cavitation media. The laser light source generates a shock wave in the cavitation media, the shock wave causing cavitation at the surface of the specimen. | 05-17-2012 |
20120125443 | WATER COLLECTION AND DISTRIBUTION MONITORING SYSTEM AND METHODS - The invention relates to a grey water reclamation system and methods therefor. Grey water is captured from a source, such as a sink, and stored in a main body containing a pump. The grey water is transported to a flush tank for use with a toilet. The system provides for use of a mixture of fresh water and grey water without interrupting the service to the user. Usage of grey water is maximized without completely eliminating the fresh water as a component that ensures service when grey water is unavailable. | 05-24-2012 |
20120132288 | FLUID INJECTION - The present invention generally relates to systems and methods for the control of fluids and, in some cases, to systems and methods for flowing a fluid into and/or out of other fluids. As examples, fluid may be injected into a droplet contained within a fluidic channel, or a fluid may be injected into a fluidic channel to create a droplet. In some embodiments, electrodes may be used to apply an electric field to one or more fluidic channels, e.g., proximate an intersection of at least two fluidic channels. For instance, a first fluid may be urged into and/or out of a second fluid, facilitated by the electric field. The electric field, in some cases, may disrupt an interface between a first fluid and at least one other fluid. Properties such as the volume, flow rate, etc. of a first fluid being urged into and/or out of a second fluid can be controlled by controlling various properties of the fluid and/or a fluidic droplet, for example curvature of the fluidic droplet, and/or controlling the applied electric field. | 05-31-2012 |
20120138158 | ELECTROWETTING-BASED VALVING AND PUMPING SYSTEMS - The present teachings relate to microfluidic valves and pumping systems, which may be suitable for controlling and facilitating liquid flow. Electrodes are disposed proximately to volumes containing a liquid. The liquid flow can be facilitated by electrowetting forces. Processes for controlling the flow of liquids, as well as for pumping liquids, are also disclosed. | 06-07-2012 |
20120160334 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ACTUATING A VALVE | 06-28-2012 |
20120167995 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR CONTACTING A FLUID STREAM WITH PARTICULATE SOLIDS - An apparatus and method for contacting a fluid stream with particulate solids are provided. The apparatus comprises a vessel having an upper portion and a lower portion and an inlet for receiving particulate solids and an outlet for discharging the particulate solids. An inner cone is coaxially positioned within an inverted truncated outer cone forming an annulus in the lower portion of the vessel. A truncated conical baffle is disposed within the lower portion of the vessel and at least partially above the inverted truncated outer cone and the inner cone. The truncated conical baffle has a downwardly and inwardly sloping wall with a lower portion thereof overlapping interiorly an upper portion of the inverted truncated outer cone. A plurality of guide tents are spaced apart in the annulus, each guide tent having sloped guide surfaces oriented to guide the flow of particulate solids into the outlet. | 07-05-2012 |
20120211088 | METHODS FOR MANIPULATING LIQUID SUBSTANCES IN MULTI-CHAMBERED RECEPTACLES - A receptacle having a plurality of interconnected chambers arranged to permit multiple process steps or processes to be performed independently or simultaneously. The receptacles are manufactured to separate liquid from dried reagents and to maintain the stability of the dried reagents. An immiscible liquid, such as an oil, is included to control loading of process materials, facilitate mixing and reconstitution of dried reagents, limit evaporation, control heating of reaction materials, concentrate solid support materials to prevent clogging of fluid connections, provide minimum volumes for fluid transfers, and to prevent process materials from sticking to chamber surfaces. The receptacles can be adapted for use in systems having a processing instrument that includes an actuator system for selectively moving fluid substances between chambers and a detector. The actuator system can be arranged to concentrate an analyte present in a sample. The detector can be used to detect an optical signal emitted by the contents of the receptacle. | 08-23-2012 |
20120216876 | Suppression and Separation of Interactive Acoustic Modes in a Fluid-Filled Resonator - A method and an apparatus for systematic suppression and separation of interactive acoustic modes within a liquid-filled spherical resonator are described. The method and apparatus allow for augmenting the response and acoustic energy of liquid-filled spherical shell resonators. In some aspects, manipulation of acoustic resonant modes is used to achieve desirable conditions. The response of a system can be influenced by one or more of the interactive modes, which are more sensitive to a change in the speed of sound. This is attained in some cases by changing parameters, which are a function of the speed of sound in a liquid medium, such as, temperature and pressure. | 08-30-2012 |
20120234395 | Shock Wave Modification Method and System - A shock wave in a gas is modified by emitting energy to form an extended path in the gas; heating gas along the path to form a volume of heated gas expanding outwardly from the path; and directing a path. The volume of heated gas passes through the shock wave and modifies the shock wave. This eliminates or reduces a pressure difference between gas on opposite sides of the shock wave. Electromagnetic, microwaves and/or electric discharge can be used to heat the gas along the path. This application has uses in reducing the drag on a body passing through the gas, noise reduction, controlling amount of gas into a propulsion system, and steering a body through the gas. An apparatus is also disclosed. | 09-20-2012 |
20120241014 | PORTABLE PRESSURE WASHER - A portable pressure washer that includes a base and a tank assembly formed as a one-piece structure and for engagement with the base. The tank assembly has a pair of water tanks that are disposed separately from each other and a solution tank that is disposed between the pair of water tanks Each of the tanks is provided with a filler cap. A latch mechanism is disposed at opposite ends of the base for releasably securing the tank assembly with the base. The base houses a liquid pump and air compressor. A manual selector is mounted at the base and has separately selectable positions including a first position in which the pump is connected with the water tanks, and a second position in which the pump is connected with the solution tank. A spray hose is coupled from the pump for directing either of the water or solution when the pump is activated. | 09-27-2012 |
20120241015 | Microfluidic Protein Crystallography Techniques - The present invention relates to microfluidic devices and methods facilitating the growth and analysis of crystallized materials such as proteins. In accordance with one embodiment, a crystal growth architecture is separated by a permeable membrane from an adjacent well having a much larger volume. The well may be configured to contain a fluid having an identity and concentration similar to the solvent and crystallizing agent employed in crystal growth, with diffusion across the membrane stabilizing that process. Alternatively, the well may be configured to contain a fluid having an identity calculated to affect the crystallization process. In accordance with the still other embodiment, the well may be configured to contain a material such as a cryo-protectant, which is useful in protecting the crystalline material once formed. | 09-27-2012 |
20120247568 | METHOD OF DRAINING A SYSTEM FOR ANCHORING A STRUCTURAL CABLE TO A CONSTRUCTION ELEMENT - Method of draining a system for anchoring a structural cable to a construction element, the anchor system comprising a first chamber delimited by an envelope, the first chamber containing a first part of the structural cable and a first filling material, the method comprising: inserting at least one heating element into the first filling material via an opening in the envelope of the first chamber; heating the first filling material with the aid of the heating element to fluidize some or all of the first filling material; and extracting the fluidized first filling material via an opening in the envelope of the first chamber. | 10-04-2012 |
20120247569 | THERMOACOUSTIC APPARATUS AND THERMOACOUSTIC SYSTEM - A standing wave and a traveling wave are generated rapidly, and thereby heat exchange is performed rapidly and efficiently. The thermoacoustic apparatus includes a first stack | 10-04-2012 |
20120273053 | Electrorheological valve - An ER fluid valve includes a housing and a plurality of parallel flow passages through the housing each defined by spaced electrodes at least one of which is controllable independently of other flow passages electrodes. A controller is configured to selectively establish electrical fields for all of the independently controllable electrodes to close all of the flow passages to ER fluid flowing through the housing. By removing the fields from all of the independently controllable electrodes, all the flow passages are open to the ER fluid flowing through the housing. By establishing fields for select independently controllable electrodes to close their associated flow passages and by leaving other flow passages open, restricted flow of the ER fluid through the housing is accomplished to vary the flow rate through the housing. | 11-01-2012 |
20120273054 | Method of Changing Fluid Flow by Using an Optical Beam - The application of an optical beam redirects sheathed micro-fluidic flow without direct interaction with the sample. The hydrodynamic properties of the sheath are locally modified due to optical absorption and heating, resulting in a spatial shift of the sample flow. The technique can result in up to 100 μm shift at peak flow velocities of 19 mm/sec. | 11-01-2012 |
20120279577 | TEMPERATURE-CONTROLLABLE PIPE SUITABLE FOR OFFSHORE APPLICATIONS - A flexible pipe which can be heated efficiently, and may therefore be used for conveying oil in cold regions, is provided. The pipe comprises in order from inside to outside: an interior lining; a wound tape; and at least one reinforcement layer. The wound tape contains a first exterior layer of a plastics molding composition that is not electrically conductive; an intermediate layer of an electrically conductive plastics molding composition; and a second exterior layer of a plastics molding composition that is not electrically conductive. A volume resistivity to IEC 60093 of the intermediate layer is in the range from 10 | 11-08-2012 |
20120285548 | LONG COOL-DOWN TUBE WITH AIR INPUT JOINTS - A conduit system comprising: a conduit formed by a surface extending from a first end to a second end, wherein the conduit is configured to channel a mixture stream from the first end to the second end; and a plurality of fluid delivery features disposed along the conduit between the first end and the second end, wherein each fluid delivery feature is configured to deliver a conditioning fluid into the conduit in an annular formation in a direction angled towards the second end in the same direction as the flow of the mixture stream, thereby providing a sheath of conditioning fluid between the conduit surface and the mixture stream. | 11-15-2012 |
20120285549 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR EVALUATING VIBRATION RESISTANCE OF A COMPONENT OF A FLUID CONTROL VALVE - Methods and apparatus for evaluating vibration resistance of a component of a fluid control valve are disclosed herein. An example method disclosed herein includes selecting a component of a fluid control valve and positioning a sensor relative to the selected component. The method also includes mechanically exciting the selected component, determining a resonant frequency of the selected component, and taking corrective action based on the resonant frequency of the selected component. | 11-15-2012 |
20120285550 | Novel Electrostatically Addressable Microvalves - A method of controlling a main fluid in a conduit using a microvalve is described. The microvalve includes a corresponding actuation aperture in an actuation aperture layer. A control fluid flows through the actuation aperture in response to an electric field applied via a charge distribution near an actuation aperture layer. In one embodiment, the electric field may adjust the opening and closing of the actuation aperture thereby controlling the flow of the control fluid. In a second embodiment, the control fluid is an electrorheological fluid where the electric field controls the viscosity of the ER fluid, thereby controlling fluid flow through the actuation aperture. In both embodiments the flow of the control fluid controls stretching of a flexible membrane into and out of the conduit, thereby controlling the flow of the main fluid by opening or closing the conduit. | 11-15-2012 |
20120291874 | AIRFLOW CONTROL DEVICE AND AIRFLOW CONTROL METHOD - An airflow control device | 11-22-2012 |
20120305091 | DRAG REDUCTION OF ASPHALTENIC CRUDE OILS - A method of introducing a drag reducing polymer into a pipeline such that the friction loss associated with the turbulent flow though the pipeline is reduced by suppressing the growth of turbulent eddies. The drag reducing polymer is introduced into a liquid hydrocarbon having an asphaltene content of at least 3 weight percent and/or an API gravity of less than about 26° to thereby produce a treated liquid hydrocarbon. The treated liquid hydrocarbon does not have a viscosity less than the viscosity of the liquid hydrocarbon prior to treatment with the drag reducing polymer. Additionally, the drag reducing polymer is added to the liquid hydrocarbon in the range from about 0.1 to about 500 ppmw. | 12-06-2012 |
20120312384 | ELECTROKINETIC FLUIDIC SYSTEM - An electrokinetic fluidic system ( | 12-13-2012 |
20120318369 | VIBRATION-DRIVEN DROPLET TRANSPORT DEVICES HAVING TEXTURED SURFACES - Methods and devices for moving a droplet on an elongated track on a textured surface using vibration. The elongated track on the textured surface includes a plurality of transverse arcuate projections such that a droplet on the surface is in the Fakir state and when the surface is vibrated the droplet is urged along the track as a result of an imbalance in the adhesion of a front portion of the droplet and a back portion of the droplet to the textured surface. | 12-20-2012 |
20120318370 | PROCESS AND ARRANGEMENT FOR RECOVERING FLUID FROM A SHIP WRECK - An arrangement for recovering oil from a sunken ship wreck ( | 12-20-2012 |
20130014828 | 3D Chemical Pattern Control in 2D Fluidics Devices - Methods of controllably creating three-dimensional (3D) combined-flow-interface patterns in multi-lane fluidic devices, and systems, apparatuses and software therefor. In one example, the 3D-pattern is created and varied as a function of one or more of the geometry of the inlets to a main fluidic channel in which the 3D-pattern is formed, the Reynolds number of the flows, the dimensions of the main fluidic channel and the inlets, and the spacing of adjacent inlets. In one embodiment particularly disclosed, differing 3D combined-flow-interface patterns are created using a three-lane fluidic device having a fixed inlet geometry. In another embodiment particularly disclosed, differing 3D combined-flow-interface patterns are created using a five-lane fluidic device having a fixed inlet geometry that can be used to effectively mimic variable inlet geometries. | 01-17-2013 |
20130014829 | Removable Cutting/Welding Torch Cutting Tip Insert - Disclosed is a removable device to be inserted into the center hole of the cutting tip of a cutting/welding torch that can be easily cleaned without distorting future cuts, minimizes the amount of oxygen needed for a cutting or welding task, concentrates, controls and defines the flow of air and oxygen into a cutting/welding torch, prevents the center hole of a cutting/welding torch from becoming distorted and imprecise over time, improves the quality of a cut, and minimizes the amount of cut steel that must be cleaned up after a cutting/welding task is completed. | 01-17-2013 |
20130037117 | DRAG REDUCTION OF ASPHALTENIC CRUDE OILS - A method of introducing a drag reducing polymer into a pipeline such that the friction loss associated with the turbulent flow though the pipeline is reduced by suppressing the growth of turbulent eddies. The drag reducing polymer is introduced into a liquid hydrocarbon having an asphaltene content of at least 3 weight percent and an API gravity of less than about 26° to thereby produce a treated liquid hydrocarbon. The treated liquid hydrocarbon does not have a viscosity less than the viscosity of the liquid hydrocarbon prior to treatment with the drag reducing polymer. Additionally, the drag reducing polymer is added to the liquid hydrocarbon in the range from about 0.1 to about 500 ppmw. | 02-14-2013 |
20130037118 | MONOMER SELECTION TO PREPARE ULTRA HIGH MOLECULAR WEIGHT DRAG REDUCER POLYMER - The process begins by obtaining a first batch of monomers selected from a group of acrylates with a molecular weight equal to or less than butyl acrylate and/or methacrylate with a molecular weight equal to or less than butyl methacrylate. A second batch of monomers is then selected from a group of acrylates with a molecular weight greater than butyl acrylate and/or methacrylate with a molecular weight greater than butyl methacrylate. A mixture is then prepared by mixing the first batch of monomers and the second batch of monomers, wherein the second batch of monomers are greater than 50% by weight of the mixture. Finally, the mixture is polymerized to produce an ultra high molecular weight polymer. | 02-14-2013 |
20130061936 | GENERATING FLUID FLOW IN A FLUIDIC NETWORK - In one embodiment, a method of generating net fluid flow in a microfluidic network includes, with a fluid actuator integrated asymmetrically within a microfluidic channel, generating compressive and tensile fluid displacements that are temporally asymmetric in duration. | 03-14-2013 |
20130074943 | SOLUBILIZING SURFACTANTS INTO SUPERCRITICAL CARBON DIOXIDE FOR ENHANCED OIL RECOVERY - Embodiments of the present disclosure include a process and a system for solubilizing a surfactant in supercritical carbon dioxide that include providing a turbulent flow of the supercritical carbon dioxide into which the surfactant solubilizes and injecting the surfactant into the turbulent flow of the supercritical carbon dioxide to achieve a Jet Mixing Number of 0.01 to 1.0. In one or more embodiments, a pump provides turbulent flow to supercritical carbon dioxide moving through at least a portion of piping, and an injector associated with the piping conveys the surfactant through surfaces defining a port in the injector to inject the surfactant into the turbulent flow of the supercritical carbon dioxide so as to achieve the Jet Mixing Number of 0.01 to 1.0. | 03-28-2013 |
20130098466 | CIRCULATION AID FOR PRIMARY FRACTIONAL QUENCH LOOPS - The Invention directed to a method of reducing the increase m viscosity and the drop in the heat transfer coefficient that commonly occurs with quenching media which is repeatedly circulated through a hot reaction vessel. The method comprises adding a preserving composition to the quenching media. The composition comprises: a) high temperature polymerization inhibitor, b) a tar dispersant, and c) a viscosity reducer. The method allows the quenching media to remain effective longer than would otherwise be the case and thereby prevents problems associated with having to devote excessive resources for controlling heat recovery, viscosity increases, product downgrades or having to operate equipment at temperatures beyond their optimum performance designs. | 04-25-2013 |
20130098467 | METHOD FOR IMPROVING THE FLOW CONDITIONS IN PIPES THAT HAVE BEEN USED FOR TRANSPORTING HEAVY OR EXTRA-HEAVY CRUDES OR CRUDES WITH HIGH ASPHALTENE CONTENT - A method for altering flow conditions in a pipe includes the steps of preparing a mixture of a surfactant, a co-surfactant and a carrier fluid; transporting the mixture to a pipe having inner flow surfaces and hydrocarbons adhered to the inner flow surfaces; and holding the mixture in the pipe for a period of time sufficient to form a water film over the inner flow surfaces and over the hydrocarbons adhered to the inner flow surfaces. | 04-25-2013 |
20130104998 | ELECTROMAGNETIC VALVE FOR A PRESSURE CONTAINER | 05-02-2013 |
20130112279 | HOT MELTING SYSTEM - A system for melting adhesive comprises a melter, a feed system, a pump, and a controller. The melter has a melting volume, and receives and melts adhesive. The feed system supplies unmelted adhesive to the melter, while the pump pumps melted adhesive from the melter. The controller directs the pump to pump melted adhesive at a throughput rate such that the ratio of the melting volume to the throughput rate is a dwell time less than a discoloration time of the adhesive. In some embodiments, the controller also directs the feed system to replenish adhesive in the melter as a function of adhesive level in the melter. | 05-09-2013 |
20130118598 | FORMATION AND BREAKING OF EMULSION USING LOW MOLECULAR WEIGHT AMINE - A method for transporting a heavy crude oil, includes the steps of mixing a heavy crude oil with water, a low molecular weight amine and salt at a mixing intensity of less than 300 rpm to produce an oil in water emulsion; transporting the oil in water emulsion to a destination; and adding an additional quantity of salt and heat to the oil in water emulsion to break the emulsion and produce a heavy crude oil phase which is at least 90% dehydrated. | 05-16-2013 |
20130126003 | THERMAL SWITCH USING MOVING DROPLETS - A thermal switch has a first substrate, a thermally conductive region on the first substrate, a thermally insulative region on the first substrate adjacent the thermally conductive region, a second substrate arranged adjacent the first substrate, a droplet of thermally conductive liquid between the first and second substrate adjacent the thermally conductive region and the thermally insulative region, and an actuator arranged on one of the first or second substrates to cause the droplet to move between the thermally conductive region and the thermally insulative region on the first substrate. | 05-23-2013 |
20130126004 | METHOD, SYSTEM AND DEVICE FOR REDUCING FRICTION OF VISCOUS FLUID FLOWING IN ACONDUIT - A device is disclosed for improving flow of a viscous fluid in a fluid transport conduit. The device includes a porous conduit having a passage through which the viscous fluid may pass between upstream and downstream sections of the fluid transport conduit and a casing member having a wall which extends around the porous conduit. The device is configured such that, when it is in situ, a fluid transfer chamber having at least one fluid inlet is defined between the casing member wall and porous conduit. A lubricating fluid may pass under pressure through the inlet(s) into the fluid transfer chamber and through the porous conduit into the passage to lubricate the flow of the viscous fluid being transported. | 05-23-2013 |
20130126005 | METHOD OF ULTRASONIC CAVITATION TREATMENT OF LIQUID MEDIUM - The subject invention refers to the field of cavitation treatment of liquid medium as well as the medium having the density of water or other liquid phase exceeds 65-70% of total mass. Method of ultrasonic cavitation treatment of liquid medium is what the mode of acoustic cavitation is being simultaneously generated on two or several different frequencies, at that the mechanical vibration system—channel with rectangular cross-section, is made in the form of tandem membranes having different frequencies of fundamental harmonic of vibrations, generating of acoustic vibrations with formation of standing wave is performed in phase over against the channel, that in turn generate quasi-plane standing waves, corresponding with vibrations frequencies of the membranes, in the channel clearance. This method allows to upgrade the power and amplitude of acoustic wave, coherence) cavitation influence to the treated liquid medium and the bodies place in this medium with the simultaneous limitation of power of ultrasonic sources. | 05-23-2013 |
20130146148 | Adaptive Pressure Insensitive Mass Flow Controller and Method for Multi-Gas Applications - A system and method for controlling a flow of a fluid using a multi-mode control algorithm is described. The method includes disengaging and engaging a feedback control loop that controls a valve of the mass flow controller based upon a rate of pressure change of the fluid. The method also includes calculating a valve position of the valve based on pressure measurements when the feedback control loop has been disengaged and characterization data that characterizes the mass flow controller, and determining, when the feedback control loop is first re-engaged, a difference between a measured flow rate and a flow set point. An adjustment to the characterization data is applied based upon the difference to improve an accuracy of the calculation of the valve position when the feedback control loop is disengaged again. | 06-13-2013 |
20130146149 | Increasing Fluidity of a Flowing Fluid - There is disclosed apparatus and processes for increasing fluidity of a flowing fluid. The apparatus may have a number of treatment chambers adapted to receive and pass the flowing fluid. In each treatment chamber a field is applied to the fluid. The fields may be parallel to the fluid's direction of flow, and may alternate in sequence. The fluidity of the fluid is increased through exposure to the fields. | 06-13-2013 |
20130167939 | Method and System for Reducing the Visibility of a Plume Created at the Outlet of an Industrial Process - A method and system for reducing the visibility of a plume created at the outlet of an industrial process, where the industrial process expels hot, humid air into the outside air through an output area of an outlet and, as a result of the expelled air A coming into contact with the outside air E, a visible plume might otherwise be created. The method includes the steps of having an auxiliary air that is dryer than the process air and hotter than the outside air available and combining this auxiliary air with the hot, humid process air such that the auxiliary air forms a protective, insulating or sheathing layer of air around the process air. This combination of the process air with the auxiliary are is carried out after (i.e., downstream from) an extraction process or processes of the industrial process and in the atmosphere generally adjacent to the output area of the process outlet. | 07-04-2013 |
20130180595 | VESSEL, DISTRIBUTION TRAY, AND METHOD FOR PASSING ONE OR MORE FLUIDS - One exemplary embodiment can be a method passing one or more fluids through a compartment. The method may include collecting a liquid on a tray, passing a vapor through the compartment, and mixing the vapor with the liquid entering the compartment via at least one aperture to impart swirling to the vapor and liquid exiting the compartment. Also, the compartment can include or consist of an interior wall and an exterior wall, and generally the compartment at least partially forms rifling on the interior wall. | 07-18-2013 |
20130186473 | MAGNETORHEOLOGICAL FLUID-BASED DEVICE AND METHOD FOR USE - A magnetorheological fluid-based device and method may include the use of magnetorheological (MR) fluid, a primary magnetic field to control the viscosity of the fluid, and a secondary magnetic field to reduce clumping of ferromagnetic particles. | 07-25-2013 |
20130192682 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MAGNETICALLY CONDITIONING FLUIDS - Methods and apparatus for fluid conditioning to reduce scaling, inactivate microbes, reduce surface tension, maintain fluid composition, and improve pumping are provided for use in treating crude petroleum, industrial water, agricultural water, municipal water supplies, or any fluid flow system and comprise electromagnets of variable control that can be powered or in which a current can be induced by a permanent magnet. Magnetic field direction and intensity can be selected depending on the nature of the fluid and in some embodiments, the field can be varied during operation, including pulsing and variably selecting one or more field directions and intensities, or combinations thereof, during operation. A non-magnetic fluid transfer conduit section has at least one conductor assembly mounted about the section. In one embodiment, the conductor assembly comprises a concentric, tilted double helix coil or multipole coil. If desired, one or more rotating or reciprocating permanent magnets may be located in magnetic field contact with one or more multipole conductor assemblies and rotated or reciprocated to induce a current in the multipole conductor assembly, thereby to induce a magnetic field in the conductor assembly. | 08-01-2013 |
20130206243 | ACOUSTICALLY ACTUATED FLOW VALVE ASSEMBLY INCLUDING A PLURALITY OF REED VALVES - The present disclosure is directed to an acousticaly actuated flow valve having temperature-sensitive reed valves thereon. The flow valve and reed valves are configured to impart acoustical energy into a fluid flowing through the flow valve and one or more fluids downstream of the valve, leading to increased mixing of the fluids. The reed valves are further configured to be temperature-sensitive, thereby allowing more fluid to flow through the flow valve as the result of a change in temperature. | 08-15-2013 |
20130213487 | PIPELINE HEATING TECHNOLOGY - An apparatus including a transfer conduit having a length and an opening therethrough; at least one thermally conductive compartment coupled to an exterior surface of the transfer conduit, the at least one thermally conductive compartment having a length dimension that extends over a portion of the length of the transfer conduit; a heating element disposed in a portion of the at least one thermally conductive compartment; and a thermally conducting material disposed in the thermally conductive compartment. A method including transferring a fluid through a transfer conduit including at least one thermally conductive compartment coupled to an exterior surface thereof, the at least one thermally conductive compartment including a heating element and a thermally conducting material disposed therein; and providing a power source to the heating element sufficient to increase the temperature of the thermally conductive compartment. | 08-22-2013 |
20130213488 | ACOUSTIC WAVES IN MICROFLUIDICS - Various aspects of the present invention relate to the control and manipulation of fluidic species, for example, in microfluidic systems. In one set of embodiments, droplets may be sorted using surface acoustic waves. The droplets may contain cells or other species. In some cases, the surface acoustic waves may be created using a surface acoustic wave generator such as an interdigitated transducer, and/or a material such as a piezoelectric substrate. The piezoelectric substrate may be isolated from the microfluidic substrate except at or proximate the location where the droplets are sorted, e.g., into first or second microfluidic channels. At such locations, the microfluidic substrate may be coupled to the piezoelectric substrate (or other material) by one or more coupling regions. In some cases, relatively high sorting rates may be achieved, e.g., at rates of at least about 1,000 Hz, at least about 10,000 Hz, or at least about 100,000 Hz, and in some embodiments, with high cell viability after sorting. | 08-22-2013 |
20130213489 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR PRODUCING PROCESS VAPOR AND BOILER FEED STEAM IN A HEATABLE REFORMING REACTOR FOR PRODUCING SYNTHESIS GAS - A method for producing process vapor and boiler feed steam in a heatable reforming reactor for producing synthesis gas. The sensible heat of a synthesis gas produced from hydrocarbons and steam can be used so that two types of vapor are produced during the heating and evaporation of boiler feed water and process condensate. The method also includes a conversion of the carbon monoxide contained in the synthesis gas. The method includes an optional heating of the boiler feed water using the flue gas from the heating of the reforming reactor. The sensible heat of the synthesis gas and of the flue gas originating from the heating can be used more efficiently. The disadvantages from the flue gas heating, which are caused by the fluctuating heat supply in the flue gas duct, are avoided. A system for practicing the method is also disclosed. | 08-22-2013 |
20130213490 | HYDRATE DEPOSIT INHIBITION WITH SURFACE-CHEMICAL COMBINATION - A system for producing and transporting crude oil, comprising a well for producing the crude oil; a processing facility for processing the crude oil; and a pipeline traversing at least a portion of the distance between the well and the processing facility, wherein at least a portion of the pipeline travels through an atmosphere having a temperature less than 20° C., wherein the pipeline comprises a coating on an inner surface of the pipeline, and wherein the crude oil comprises a surfactant additive. | 08-22-2013 |
20130240046 | SOLUBILIZING SURFACTANTS INTO SUPERCRITICAL CARBON DIOXIDE FOR ENHANCED OIL RECOVERY - Embodiments of the present disclosure include a process and a system for solubilizing a surfactant in supercritical carbon dioxide that include providing a turbulent flow of the supercritical carbon dioxide into which the surfactant solubilizes and injecting the surfactant into the turbulent flow of the supercritical carbon dioxide to achieve a Jet Mixing Number of 0.01 to 1.0. In one or more embodiments, a pump provides turbulent flow to supercritical carbon dioxide moving through at least a portion of piping, and an injector associated with the piping conveys the surfactant through surfaces defining a port in the injector to inject the surfactant into the turbulent flow of the supercritical carbon dioxide so as to achieve the Jet Mixing Number of 0.01 to 1.0. | 09-19-2013 |
20130240047 | LOW TEMPERATURE TRANSPORT AND STORAGE OF AMINE GAS TREATMENT SOLUTIONS - A liquid aminoether acid gas absorbent which is subject to freezing in a cold climatic zone though which the aminoether is to be shipped is rendered freeze-resistant by mixing the aminoether with water prior to transport through the cold climatic zone; the aminoether/water mixture typically contains 10 to 40 weight percent water, based on the weight of the aminoether. The aminoether/water mixture can also be stored in the cold climatic zone without being externally maintained at a temperature above the inherent freezing point of the aminoether. | 09-19-2013 |
20130247997 | CIRCULATING HOT WATER SYSTEM AND OR APPLIANCE - A water heating system having a system inlet pipe ( | 09-26-2013 |
20130247998 | METHOD FOR FEEDING ZINC GAS AND APPARATUS THEREFOR - To provide a method and an apparatus for feeding a zinc gas superheated to a boiling point of zinc or higher at a controlled rate of feed. The method for feeding the zinc gas according to the invention includes a step for introducing melt zinc into a zinc gas evaporation apparatus, a step for generating the zinc gas from the melt zinc by inputting electric power corresponding to a rate of feed of the zinc gas to allow zinc to cause self-heating by high-frequency induction heating, a step for introducing the generated zinc gas into a gas heating apparatus, and a step for heating the zinc gas by resistance heating to form a superheated zinc gas. An apparatus for feeding the zinc gas according to the invention is applied to the method, and includes a zinc gas evaporation apparatus, a gas heating apparatus and a control apparatus. | 09-26-2013 |
20130255792 | REMOTE ACTUATION OF SAFETY DEVICE - Two-stage, sequential operation protective assemblies are provided, including a primary protective device ( | 10-03-2013 |
20130276904 | SAMPLE FLUID STREAM PROBE - A sample fluid stream in a probe apparatus may be redirected in a redirection area, and a flowing gas sheet may be directed into the redirection area. Additionally, a conduit downstream of a probe nozzle may define a reverse taper (where the conduit is wider downstream), a lip for collecting droplets that have collected on conduit walls, and/or re-entraining gas directed at collected droplets. Focusing gas may focus the sample fluid stream away from the walls of the conduit. Such focusing gas may be at different temperatures for different sections of the conduit. For example, the focusing gas may be a lower temperature near the probe inlet, and may be at a higher temperature to act as drying gas farther downstream. | 10-24-2013 |
20130284273 | METHOD OF USING AN ACTIVE FLOW CONTROL SYSTEM FOR LIFT ENHANCEMENT OR DESTRUCTION - A method for actively manipulating a primary fluid flow over a surface using an active flow control system including an active fluid flow device to provide lift enhancement and lift destruction. The method including the disposing of an active fluid flow device in the surface. The active fluid flow device is then operated to generate at least one of a steady blowing secondary fluid flow, a pulsed secondary fluid flow or an oscillating secondary fluid flow. While flowing the primary fluid over the surface to create a primary flow field, a secondary fluid flow is injected in an upstream direction and substantially opposed to the incoming primary fluid flow. The injecting of the secondary fluid flow in this manner provides for influencing of the primary flow field by manipulating a momentum of the secondary fluid flow to influence the incoming primary fluid flow and resultant lift. | 10-31-2013 |
20130299002 | Shock Wave Modification Method and System - A shock wave in a gas is modified by emitting energy to form an extended path in the gas; heating gas along the path to form a volume of heated gas expanding outwardly from the path; and directing a path. The volume of heated gas passes through the shock wave and modifies the shock wave. This eliminates or reduces a pressure difference between gas on opposite sides of the shock wave. Electromagnetic, microwaves and/or electric discharge can be used to heat the gas along the path. This application has uses in reducing the drag on a body passing through the gas, noise reduction, controlling amount of gas into a propulsion system, and steering a body through the gas. An apparatus is also disclosed. | 11-14-2013 |
20130306160 | APPARATUS AND METHOD OF DETECTING AND CONTROLLING FLUID IN MICROFLUIDIC DEVICE - A fluid control apparatus including a detecting unit including a light source for irradiating light toward a microfluidic device, and a photodetector for detecting light reflected from the microfluidic device, a transporting unit for moving the detecting unit; and a determining unit for controlling a transporting operation by the transporting unit, where determining a state of a fluid at a particular position relative to the microfluidic device is based on light reflected from the microfluidic device, and method of using same. | 11-21-2013 |
20130319537 | Flow Control of Combustible Mixture into Combustion Chamber - In a premix supply, for supplying a fuel and oxidizer gas into a combustion chamber for burning, the premix supply having a smaller diameter flow than the combustion chamber, the premix supply comprising at least one dielectric barrier discharge device (DBD) comprising two electrodes separated by a dielectric, improved flame stability limits may be provided for the adjacent combustor by the actuation of the DBD to induce ionic wind. Both electrodes may be provided in a single wall of the premix supply. The two electrodes may be arranged substantially upstream and downstream of each other. The electrodes may be arranged to generate an ionic wind preferentially directed in a direction of flow through the premix supply. | 12-05-2013 |
20130319538 | DIRECT COOLING OF CLATHRATE FLOWING IN A PIPELINE SYSTEM - Described embodiments include a system and a method. A described pipeline system includes a transportation conduit containing a gas hydrate flowing from a first geographical location to another geographical location. The pipeline system includes a cooling system in thermal contact with the flowing gas hydrate and maintaining the temperature of the flowing gas hydrate within a target temperature range predicted to maintain a selected stability of the flowing gas hydrate. In an embodiment, the pipeline system includes a controller configured to control a pressure or temperature of the flowing gas hydrate in response to a sensed pressure or temperature of the flowing gas hydrate. | 12-05-2013 |
20130327409 | ACTIVE GUIDANCE OF FLUID AGENTS USING MAGNETORHEOLOGICAL ANTIBUBBLES - Magnetorheological (MR) antibubbles are used for fluid delivery. A method of transporting a substance in a fluid in accordance with the invention comprising the steps of forming an antibubble in the fluid, the antibubble containing the substance to be transported and magnetic or magnetizable particles, and guiding the antibubble through the fluid with a magnet. The particles are ferromagnetic, paramagnetic or diamagnetic, and the magnet is a permanent magnet or an electromagnet. The substance to be transported may include a reactant associated with a catalytic mechanism; a pigment; or a lubricant. The delivery system may include a substance or magnetic particles which are fluorescent. | 12-12-2013 |
20130327410 | Commercial Hot Water Control Systems - A commercial hot water system includes a hot water source, and a hot water delivery line connected between the hot water source and at least one plumbing fixture. A pump, enables circulation of hot water to and from the fixtures. A controller provides for turning on the pump in conjunction with an external signal, and a detector, preferably a temperature sensor, in conjunction with the controller, is effective in stopping the pump to prevent heated water from being circulated. | 12-12-2013 |
20130333766 | COMPOSITION AND METHOD FOR REDUCING HYDROCARBON FRICTION AND DRAG IN PIPELINE FLOW - A method and composition for reducing drag, reducing friction, reducing viscosity, and/or improving flow of viscous hydrocarbons including adding an effective amount of a drag-reducing composition containing a blend of turpentine liquids to a viscous hydrocarbon storage or pipeline operation and forming a drag-reducing mixture of viscous hydrocarbons and the blend of turpentine liquids. | 12-19-2013 |
20130340838 | FACILITATING STREAMING FLUID USING ACOUSTIC WAVES - Systems and methods are provided facilitating a steaming fluid flow utilizing acoustic waves. A system includes an acoustic wave generator and an acoustic coupler associated with the acoustic wave generator and coupling acoustic waves generated by the acoustic wave generator into a fluid. The acoustic coupler includes one or more acoustic coupling lenses, which direct the acoustic waves into the fluid and facilitate, at least in part, a streaming fluid flow in a common direction. In an enhanced embodiment, the common flow direction is at an angle to a direction acoustic waves are generated, and the acoustic coupling lens(es), in directing the acoustic waves into the fluid, redirects the acoustic waves from the direction of acoustic wave generation. The acoustic wave generator generates the acoustic waves in the megahertz or gigahertz range, for example, with a frequency of 20 MHz or higher. | 12-26-2013 |
20130340839 | VALVE DISINFECTING METHOD - A method of disinfecting a valve configured for use as part of a water delivery system includes activating a heating element that is configured to heat a body of the valve to a temperature sufficient to kill organisms that may be present on internal surfaces of the valve, wherein the heating element and the valve are configured to be provided within the water delivery system. | 12-26-2013 |
20130340840 | ARTICLES AND METHODS FOR LEVITATING LIQUIDS ON SURFACES, AND DEVICES INCORPORATING THE SAME - Methods described herein provide a way to reduce or eliminate drag and adhesion of a substance flowing over a surface by creating a vapor cushion via evaporation of a phase-changing material of or on the surface or encapsulated within textures of the surface. The vapor cushion causes the flowing substance to be suspended over the surface, greatly reducing friction, drag, and adhesion between the flowing substance and the surface. The temperature of the flowing substance is above the sublimation point and/or melting point of the phase-changing material. The phase-changing material undergoes a phase change (evaporation or sublimation) upon contact with the flowing substance due to local heat transfer from the flowing substance to the material, generating a vapor cushion between the solid or liquid material and the flowing substance. | 12-26-2013 |
20140014192 | METHOD OF CONTROLLING A FLOW - The present invention relates to a method of controlling a flow in a micro conduit system, and particularly a micro conduit system comprising one or more capillary-stop valves ( | 01-16-2014 |
20140034141 | RECONFIGURABLE MICROACTUATOR AND METHOD OF CONFIGURING SAME - A microactuator may be configured by activating a source of electromagnetic radiation to heat and melt a selected set of phase-change plugs embedded in a substrate of the microactuator, pressurizing a common pressure chamber adjacent to each of the plugs to deform the melted plugs, and deactivating the source of electromagnetic radiation to cool and solidify the melted plugs. | 02-06-2014 |
20140041731 | AUTONOMOUS FLUID CONTROL ASSEMBLY HAVING A MOVABLE, DENSITY-DRIVEN DIVERTER FOR DIRECTING FLUID FLOW IN A FLUID CONTROL SYSTEM - An apparatus is presented for autonomously controlling fluid flow in a subterranean well, the fluid having a density which changes over time. An embodiment of the apparatus has a vortex chamber, a vortex outlet, and first and second inlets into the vortex chamber. Flow into the inlets is directed by a fluid control system which has a control passageway for directing fluid flow as it exits a primary passageway. A movable fluid diverter positioned in the control passageway moves in response to change in fluid density to restrict fluid flow through the control passageway. When fluid flow through the control passageway is unrestricted, fluid from the control passageway directs fluid exiting the primary passageway toward a selected vortex inlet. When flow through the control passageway is unrestricted, flow from the primary passageway is directed into the other vortex inlet. | 02-13-2014 |
20140053914 | Shock Wave Modification Method and System - A system for modifying a shock wave formed in a fluid by a body to modify effects of the shock wave on information transferred to or from the body. The system includes an element for heating fluid along a path to form a volume of heated fluid expanding outwardly from the path, the path extending from the body and through the shock wave; an element for transferring the information to or from the body; and an element for timing the transferring of the information relative to the heating of the fluid along the path to modify certain effects of the shock wave on the information. | 02-27-2014 |
20140069510 | VORTEX GENERATOR - A vortex generator, designed to bring a medium into a controlled vortex motion, with a hollow inlet section ( | 03-13-2014 |
20140076410 | Core Annular Flow of Crude Oils - A method is provided for enhancing the shear stability of a high-viscosity fluid-water flow system, such as a core annular flow system. The method employs a family of demulsifier additives for maintaining separation of the fluids in biphasic flow. The additive family is sodium salts of polynuclear aromatic sulfonic acids. In one aspect, the high-viscosity fluid is heavy oil. A method to flow oil through a biphasic flow system is also provided. The method includes locating an oil in the biphasic flow system; placing water within the biphasic flow system; flowing the oil through the biphasic flow system within an annular flow of water; and subjecting the water in the biphasic flow system to a salt of a polynuclear aromatic sulfonic acid additive so as to improve shear stability of the oil and water. | 03-20-2014 |
20140102544 | HIGH-TEMPERATURE THERMAL ACTUATOR UTILIZING PHASE CHANGE MATERIAL - Disclosed is a high-temperature thermal actuator that utilizes the dimensional change of a phase change media hermetically sealed within a shell. This actuator regulates and controls flow of a fluid between an intake and an exhaust utilizing a valve. In one example, the disclosed embodiments operate in temperature range between 350° C. and 400° C. This actuation range is tailored for specific applications utilizing an exemplary combination of RbNO | 04-17-2014 |
20140116525 | ADHESIVE DISPENSING SYSTEM AND METHOD USING SMART MELT HEATER CONTROL - An adhesive dispensing system is configured to automatically reduce the temperature of adhesive material to reduce degradation of the adhesive caused by holding the adhesive at an application temperature during periods of low throughput. To this end, a controller of the system operates a heater unit to maintain a unit set point temperature to heat and melt adhesive until a set threshold time has elapsed since the most recent supply of adhesive to the system by a fill system. Once the time elapsed since the most recent supply of adhesive exceeds the set threshold time, the heater unit is reduced in temperature to reduce the temperature of adhesive. This reduction is temperature is large enough to minimize degradation and outgassing but small enough to enable rapid warm-up times after a new supply of adhesive occurs. | 05-01-2014 |
20140130885 | EXTRACTION OF RESTRAINED LIQUID FROM WELLS - The present invention provides methods, systems, assemblies, and articles for extracting restrained liquid (e.g., surface tension-restrained liquid) from open wells in a chip, where the restrained liquid does not flow out of the wells due to gravity when the wells are held upside down. For example, the present invention provides extraction fixtures that may be attached to, and/or held adjacent to, a chip such that any restrained liquid that is forced out of the open wells is collected by, or flows through, the extraction fixtures. Also for example, the present invention provides assemblies composed of a extraction fixture attached to, and/or held adjacent to, a chip, and methods of subjecting such assemblies to a force such that at least a portion of the restrained liquid in the open wells is forced out and collected by, or flows through, the extraction fixture. | 05-15-2014 |
20140144517 | RAIL PLASMA ACTUATOR FOR HIGH-AUTHORITY FLOW CONTROL - Apparatus and methods for forming and propagating a plurality of plasma armatures along electrodes. In particular embodiments, the electrodes are flush mounted to the surface and the plasma armatures are formed and propagated at a high frequency and velocity. | 05-29-2014 |
20140144518 | VIBRATION-DRIVEN DROPLET TRANSPORT DEVICES - Methods and devices are provided for moving a droplet on an elongated track formed on a patterned surface using vibration. The elongated track includes a plurality of patterned transverse arcuate regions such that when the surface is vibrated the droplet is urged along the track as a result of an imbalance in the adhesion of a front portion of the droplet and a back portion of the droplet to the transverse arcuate regions. | 05-29-2014 |
20140150886 | TWO-STAGE FLOCCULATION OF FLUID FINE TAILINGS - A method for treating and disposal of fluid fine tailings utilizes two stages of thickening prior to disposal of the thickened tailings. The fluid fine tailings are adjusted to a sand-to-fines ratio of 0.5 to 1.3 using hydrocyclones or centrifuges in required. In a first stage of thickening a first flocculant is added to the fluid fine tailings which are fed to one or more conventional thickeners to produce a pumpable thickened tailings underflow having a solids content of between about 20 wt % to 40 wt %. The pumpable thickened tailings underflow is centrifugally pumped through a pipeline towards a disposal area. Adjacent the disposal area a second flocculant is added to the pumpable tailings underflow in a second stage of thickening to flocculate the tailings sufficient to produce a secondary thickened tailings underflow which when deposited has a solids content of about 50 wt % or higher at least one day after disposal. Alternatively, the second flocculant can be added prior to a paste thickener located adjacent the disposal area to further thicken the secondary thickened tailings underflow to a solids content of about 65 wt % for direct disposal at the disposal area. | 06-05-2014 |
20140150887 | OPTOFLUIDIC TWEEZERS - In a method of moving droplets, local heat is applied to a surface portion of a droplet for an amount of time sufficient to create a Marangoni flow in the droplet. Droplets are suspended in an emulsion in a carrier liquid on a substrate. A laser beam is used to move one of the droplets. the droplet consists of a first substance and a carrier liquid consists of a second substance that is not mixable with the first substance. The droplet is placed in the carrier liquid, and the mixture is emulsified. The emulsified mixture is placed on a substrate. Then the local heat is applied to the surface of the droplet. The first substance may include oil and the second substance may include water. | 06-05-2014 |
20140150888 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CHANGING THE PROPERTIES OF AT LEAST ONE LIQUID MEDIUM - Method and device for changing the properties of at least one liquid medium, in which method the liquid medium is exposed in at least one container to vibrations in the low-frequency power ultrasonic range and, to regulate the flow speed of the liquid material in the container in which the liquid medium is present for ultrasonic irradiation and/or to regulate the internal pressure of the container, the cross-section inside a line upstream of an inlet of the container in the direction of flow and/or downstream of an outlet of the container in the direction of flow is varied by means of at least one pinch valve. | 06-05-2014 |
20140158213 | ANTIFOULING STRUCTURE AND OPERATION METHOD OF SAME - Provided is an antifouling structure ( | 06-12-2014 |
20140182695 | Method of Using Microjet Actuators For The Control Of Flow Separation And Distortion - A system for controlling unwanted flow separation. One or more microjets are placed to feed auxiliary fluid into a region of suspected flow separation on a surface. If the separation is intermittent, sensors can be employed to detect its onset. Once separation is developing, the microjets are activated to inject a stream of high-velocity gas in a direction that is transverse to the prevailing flow. This injected stream forms counter-rotating vortices in the prevailing flow and thereby transfers momentum from the prevailing flow into the boundary layer proximate the surface. | 07-03-2014 |
20140216561 | VAPOR PRESSURE LOWERING AGENT FOR SEAL WATER IN DRAIN TRAP, METHOD FOR PREVENTING SEAL BREAKAGE IN DRAIN TRAP BY USING VAPOR PRESSURE LOWERING - It is an object to provide a water vapor pressure lowering agent which is safe, is easily mixed with seal water, and is usable even in a cold region. | 08-07-2014 |
20140230912 | DEVICE FOR HANDLING OBJECTS, USING ACOUSTIC FORCE FIELDS - The invention relates to a device ( | 08-21-2014 |
20140230913 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR PRODUCING MICRODROPLETS - A method and an apparatus for producing various types of microdroplets are provided. The apparatus has a cross intersection portion | 08-21-2014 |
20140246098 | MANIPULATION OF FLUIDS, FLUID COMPONENTS AND REACTIONS IN MICROFLUIDIC SYSTEMS - Microfluidic structures and methods for manipulating fluids, fluid components, and reactions are provided. In one aspect, such structures and methods can allow production of droplets of a precise volume, which can be stored/maintained at precise regions of the device. In another aspect, microfluidic structures and methods described herein are designed for containing and positioning components in an arrangement such that the components can be manipulated and then tracked even after manipulation. For example, cells may be constrained in an arrangement in microfluidic structures described herein to facilitate tracking during their growth and/or after they multiply. | 09-04-2014 |
20140261720 | FLAMELESS FLUID HEATER - Heat from a rotating prime mover(s) driving a fluid shear pump, heat from the prime mover and any exhaust heat generated by the prime mover is collected. The heat energy collected from all of these sources is transmitted through heat exchangers to a fluid where heat energy is desired. This fluid heating process is performed in the absence of an open flame. | 09-18-2014 |
20140261721 | System and Method for Acoustic Focusing Hardware and Implementations - The present invention is a method and apparatus for acoustic focusing hardware and implementations. | 09-18-2014 |
20140283919 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUSES FOR PROVIDING VISCOUS FLUID IN A PARTICULAR FORMAT AND IMPLEMENTATIONS THEREOF - The present invention involves providing a viscous fluid in a particular format and implementations thereof. In particular, a viscous slave fluid is provided in a particular format, wherein the particular format can be an end result or an intermediate result for the viscous fluid. In the case of an intermediate result, the viscous fluid in the second format may be further processed to a third format. Implementations or applications include supercharged fuel injection systems, methods, and apparatuses for internal combustion, lean-burn oil pre-mixing systems, methods, and apparatuses for liquid fuel combustion, and medical or biomedical devices, systems, and methods. | 09-25-2014 |
20140305509 | METHOD, SYSTEM AND DEVICE FOR REDUCING FRICTION OF VISCOUS FLUID FLOWING IN A CONDUIT - There is disclosed a device for improving flow of a viscous fluid in a fluid transport conduit, the device comprising: a porous conduit having a passage through which the viscous fluid may pass between upstream and downstream sections of the fluid transport conduit; and a casing member having a wall which extends around the porous conduit, the device being configured such that, when it is in situ, a fluid transfer chamber having at least one fluid inlet is defined between the casing member wall and porous conduit, whereby lubricating fluid may pass under pressure through the inlet(s) into the fluid transfer chamber and through the porous conduit into the passage to lubricate the flow. | 10-16-2014 |
20140305510 | AUTOMATIC PASSIVE CONTROL OF LIQUID POSITIONING IN MICROFLUIDIC CHIPS - A device for controlling liquid motion includes a substrate ( | 10-16-2014 |
20140318635 | SAFETY SYSTEM FOR DANGEROUS SUBSTANCES - An improved safety device, for oil and gas installations, includes one or more conduits for the transport of oil and/or gas, and one or more valves, where the safety system includes a freezing device, which can be provided substantially around a conduit and/or a valve, where the freezing device cools the conduit and/or valve in such a way, preferably by using liquid nitrogen of freon, that the medium in the conduit and/or the valve freezes. | 10-30-2014 |
20140338753 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DROPLET PRODUCTION AND/OR FLUIDIC MANIPULATION - The present invention generally relates to systems and techniques for manipulating fluids and/or making droplets. In certain aspects, the present invention generally relates to droplet production. The droplets may be formed from fluids from different sources. In one set of embodiments, the present invention is directed to a microfluidic device comprising a plurality of droplet-making units, and/or other fluidic units, which may be substantially identical in some cases. Substantially each of the fluidic units may be in fluidic communication with a different source of a first fluid and a common source of a second fluid, in certain embodiments. In one aspect, substantially the same pressure may be applied to substantially all of the different sources of fluid, which may be used to cause fluid to move from the different sources into the microfluidic device. In some cases, the fluids may interact within the fluidic units, e.g., by reacting, or for the production of droplets within the microfluidic device. In some cases, the droplets may be used, for example, to form a library of droplets. | 11-20-2014 |
20140338754 | Domestic Hot Water Distribution Device - A domestic hot water distribution device includes a supply water inlet, a waste water collector and means for heating the supply water in order to produce domestic hot water from the heat contained in the waste waters The heating means include thermo-electric modules laid out for operating heat transfer from the waste waters to the supply water to be heated. | 11-20-2014 |
20140360586 | Fluid ionization vaporization inlet for introduction of samples to spectroscopy instruments and methods of performing the same - A fluid ionization and vaporization inlet provides for the ionization and vaporization of samples to be delivered to analytical instrumentation of the scientist's choice. A sample may be injected through a septum onto a sample plate whereby heat, direct current, or both can be applied to ionize and/or vaporize the sample into a carrier gas, which is then provided to the analytical instrumentation. A continuous fluid sample may also be provided to the fluid ionization and vaporization inlet wherein it is heated to vaporize the sample, and then excited volatile molecules pass through a gas permeable membrane and combined with a carrier gas, which in turn is provided to the analytical instrumentation. | 12-11-2014 |
20140360587 | REDUCING FRICTION OF A VISCOUS FLUID FLOW IN A CONDUIT - A device for reducing friction of a viscous fluid flow in a conduit includes a body ( | 12-11-2014 |
20140360588 | Drag Reducing Compositions and Methods of Manufacture and Use - A drag reducing composition for use in hydrocarbon streams which contains a finely divided, solid polyolefin friction reducing agent, a suspending medium comprised of water and a liquid organic carrier containing from 10 to 14 carbon atoms and having at least one hydroxyl group and a partitioning agent comprising a compound having a hydrophobic group and a hydrophilic group and exhibiting at least some surface activity. | 12-11-2014 |
20140366950 | DISTRIBUTING GAS WITHIN AN AIRCRAFT - An aircraft comprising a Rubens' tube for distributing gas within the aircraft. The Rubens' tube comprises a tube with a plurality of outlets; an inlet for feeding the gas into the tube; and a loudspeaker arranged to set up a standing acoustic wave within the tube. Typically the Rubens' tube is arranged to feed inert gas into a fuel tank of the aircraft. | 12-18-2014 |
20150020890 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SUPPLYING MIXED GAS - A method and apparatus, for supplying high-pressure mixed gas of a low-vapor-pressure first gas as an active gas and a high-vapor-pressure second gas, are arranged to reduce an amount of the first gas discarded. The mixed gas in a high-pressure state is supplied from a mixing container to a use point. Upon reduction of pressure in the mixing container to a setpoint as a result of supply to the use point, a predetermined amount of the first gas is charged into a replenishment container connected to the mixing container by a replenishment line having a replenishment valve, and which is evacuated. As the second gas is charged into the replenishment container charged with the first gas, the replenishment valve is opened such that the first gas in the replenishment container is forced out by the second gas, thereby charging the mixing container with the mixed gas in the high-pressure condition. | 01-22-2015 |
20150027553 | Urea Injection Systems Valves - Apparatuses and methods for urea dosing of an exhaust after treatment system are disclosed. Exemplary apparatuses include a chamber configured to receive pressurized gas at a first inlet, receive urea solution at a second inlet, and provide a combined flow of pressurized gas and urea to an outlet, a flow passage extending from the first inlet to a seating surface, and a valve member configured to move between an open position in which the valve member is spaced apart from the seating surface and a closed position in which the valve member contacts the seating surface. As the valve member moves from the open position to the closed position the valve member contacts the seating surface at a first location and wipes an area of the seating surface extending from the first location in a direction toward the flow passage. | 01-29-2015 |
20150027554 | DROPLET MANIPULATING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MANIPULATING DROPLET - The disclosure relates to a droplet manipulating device and a method for manipulating a droplet. The droplets manipulating device includes a first magnetic field generator, a second magnetic field generator, and a flow channel. The first magnetic field generator produces a first magnetic field on the droplet, so that the droplet has the direction of magnetic field corresponding to the first magnetic field. Further, the second magnetic field generator produces a second magnetic field on the droplet so as to drive the droplet to be in motion in the flow channel. | 01-29-2015 |
20150027555 | MICROFLUIDIC PLATFORM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE SAME - A microfluidic platform including a microfluidic layer and a contact layer. The microfluidic layer is embedded with a microfluidic structure including a micro-channel and a fluidic sample contained in the micro-channel. The contact layer is able to be attached to the microfluidic layer, and includes a first heater for heating a first area of the microfluidic structure to a first temperature and a second heater for heating a second area of the microfluidic structure to a second temperature. The microfluidic layer and the contact layer rotate together during operation. A method for controlling a sample in the micro-channel of the microfluidic structure. | 01-29-2015 |
20150068611 | Method of Delivering a Process Gas from a Multi-Component Solution - A method and chemical delivery system are provided. The method includes providing a vapor phase of a multi-component liquid source. The method further includes contacting a pre-loaded carrier gas with the vapor phase, wherein the pre-loaded carrier gas includes a carrier gas and at least one component of the multi-component liquid source and delivering a gas stream comprising at least one component of the liquid source to a critical process or application, wherein the amount of the component in the carrier gas is sufficient to keep the ratio of components in the multi-component liquid source relatively constant. The chemical delivery system includes a multi-component liquid source having a vapor phase. The system further includes a pre-loaded carrier gas source that is in fluid contact with the vapor phase, wherein the pre-loaded carrier gas includes a carrier gas and at least one component of the liquid source and an apparatus for delivering a gas stream including at least one component of the liquid source, wherein the amount of the component in the pre-loaded carrier gas is sufficient to keep the ratio of components in the multi-component liquid source relatively constant. | 03-12-2015 |
20150075631 | THERMAL ACTIVATED COLD WATER DIVERSION VALVE - A device that directs cooled and otherwise wasted water to storage for reuse is disclosed. The valve incorporates a single flow stream through internal piping around a thermally sensitive coil which imparts rotation for automatic closing of a valve upon arrival of heated water to the valve. Once closed, the device resets itself for the next activation and use. The device is basically self contained and requires only single point installation. The unit provides for many households to experience substantial saving on daily energy and water expenses. The installation can be readily retrofitted to existing structures or incorporated in new construction whether any be homes, apartments, hotels, condominiums and businesses with water distribution requirements. Further, the present invention, requiring no external energy input, offers an alternative to expensive circulating hot water systems incorporating substantial initial cost and extended energy consumption. | 03-19-2015 |
20150075632 | MAGNETO-CRYOGENIC VALVES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MODULATING FLOW IN A CONDUIT - Provided are magneto-cryogenic valves, methods and systems that extract thermal energy from a fluid within a conduit such that the temperature of at least a portion of the fluid is reduced to a temperature below which at least a portion of the fluid becomes a solid thereby forming a frozen plug of fluid and magnetically susceptible particles that reversibly plugs the conduit, preventing flow of fluid past the plug. Also provided are methods and systems for temporarily preventing the flow of fluid in a conduit. | 03-19-2015 |
20150083230 | ADHESIVE BUFFER UNIT AND ASSOCIATED FILL SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR STORING AND MOVING ADHESIVE PARTICULATE - A buffer unit is configured to store and transfer adhesive particulate to at least one adhesive melter. The buffer unit includes a buffer bin defining an interior space configured to hold a bulk supply of adhesive particulate with an agitator plate positioned within the housing at a non-horizontal orientation. A vibration generating mechanism is coupled to the agitator plate so that vibration is transmitted into the adhesive particulate to form a flow of fluidized adhesive particulate which flows toward at least one pump inlet. The buffer unit breaks up clumps of coalesced adhesive particulate to avoid clogging the pump inlet, while also ensuring that all adhesive particulate in the buffer bin can be removed at the pump inlet. Additionally, makeup air used by pumps to generate vacuum at the pump inlet does not need to be drawn through the entire bulk supply of adhesive particulate. | 03-26-2015 |
20150096626 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR LOADING, MELTING AND DELIVERING FLUID FROM A FLUID DELIVERY DEVICE - A fluid delivery device is provided. The fluid delivery device includes a melter having a loading chamber and a hopper disposed in communication with the loading chamber, the loading chamber having one or more heating elements. The hopper includes a second heating element. The melter also includes a container handling system for lifting a container a predetermined height and moving the container from a position remote of the melter to a position within the loading chamber. The container includes contents stored within. The heating elements heat the contents so that the contents may be received in the hopper. The hopper may continue to heat the contents to provide a fluid. The fluid may be discharged from the hopper by way of a pump assembly. A pressure of fluid may be regulated at the pump assembly. | 04-09-2015 |
20150101673 | DRAG REDUCING COPOLYMERS FOR COLD FLUID APPLICATIONS - Drag reducing compositions comprising polymer particles, where the polymer particles include copolymers comprising the residues of at least one methacrylate monomer and at least one comonomer having a polymerizable vinyl group, where the comonomer has no more than one pendant substituent per vinyl carbon. The drag reducing compositions can have improved dissolution rates in hydrocarbon-containing fluids. The drag reducing compositions can be added to a hydrocarbon-containing fluid to decrease the pressure drop associated with the turbulent flow of the hydrocarbon-containing fluid through a conduit. | 04-16-2015 |
20150289488 | SYSTEM FOR CREATING A VERTICAL WATER FLOW IN A WATER COLUMN - A system for creating a vertical water flow in a water column that includes a first portion, and a second deeper portion is provided including a down-welling mechanism positioned within the water column. The down-welling mechanism is configured to create the vertical water flow downward to the second, deeper portion of the water column. | 10-15-2015 |
20150292533 | NOISE CONTROL OF CAVITY FLOWS USING ACTIVE AND/OR PASSIVE RECEPTIVE CHANNELS - An apparatus comprises a surface that is configured to be exposed to a fluid stream and a cavity wall that forms at least a portion of a cavity. A first channel opening is formed in the surface, and a second channel opening is formed in the cavity wall. A channel extends from the first channel opening in the cavity wall to the second channel opening in the surface. | 10-15-2015 |
20150308624 | METHOD FOR REDUCING THE PRESSURE DROP ASSOCIATED WITH A FLUID SUBJECTED TO A TURBULENT FLOW - Method for reducing the pressure drop associated with a fluid subjected to a turbulent flow which comprises introducing at least one latex into said fluid, comprising: (a) a continuous aqueous phase; (b) a plurality of particles, dispersed in said continuous aqueous phase, of at least one branched (co) polymer having a branching degree {GR) ranging from 0.05 to 0.6, preferably from 0.08 to 0.5, and a weight average molecular weight (M | 10-29-2015 |
20150323137 | SYSTEM AND PROCESS FOR HANDLING HEAVY OIL RESIDUE - The processes and systems herein described enable the use of CO | 11-12-2015 |
20150361999 | Ventilated Drainage System - A method and apparatus for draining fluid from a structure on an aircraft. The apparatus comprises a drainage tube, a housing, a number of inlet holes in the housing, and a number of outlet holes in the housing. The drainage tube has first end that connects to a structure on an aircraft and a second end opposite the first end. The housing connects to the structure. The drainage tube is located within the housing. Air flows into the housing during flight of the aircraft through the number of inlet holes in the housing. The air flows out of the housing during flight of the aircraft through the number of outlet holes. The air flowing into the housing through the number of inlet holes and out the housing through the number of outlet holes directs fluid out of the drainage tube and away from the structure during flight of the aircraft. | 12-17-2015 |
20160008806 | FLUID HANDLING DEVICE AND METHOD OF USING THE SAME | 01-14-2016 |
20160025116 | PHASEGUIDE PATTERNS FOR LIQUID MANIPULATION - The present invention relates to phaseguide patterns for use in fluid systems such as channels, chambers, and flow through cells. In order to effectively control filling and/or emptying of fluidic chambers and channels, techniques for a controlled overflowing of phaseguides are proposed. In addition, techniques of confined liquid patterning in a larger fluidic structure, including approaches for patterning overflow structures and the specific shape of phaseguides, are provided. The invention also proposes techniques to effectively rotate the advancement of a liquid/air meniscus over a certain angle. In particular, a phaseguide pattern for guiding a flow of a liquid contained within a compartment is provided, wherein an overflow of the phaseguide by a moving liquid phase is controlled by a local change in capillary force along the phaseguide, wherein said overflow by the liquid over the phaseguide is provoked at the position of the local change in capillary force. | 01-28-2016 |
20160044772 | SYSTEM AND METHOD TO REDUCE OSCILLATIONS IN EXTREME ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT GENERATION - A droplet generation system for use with a laser produced plasma (LPP) extreme ultraviolet (EUV) source plasma chamber is described. During EUV generation, oscillations can occur as a function of droplet time-of-flight within the plasma chamber. To reduce these oscillations, a droplet controller adjusts the rate at which droplets are generated which, in turn, dictates the droplet time-of-flight. The droplets are a result of coalescence of generated microdroplets such that the rate at which the droplets are generated is dictated by a frequency of a signal used to generate the microdroplets. This adjustment can be a modulation of a baseline droplet frequency. In some instances, the modulation function may be a sinusoid or implemented as a pseudo-random switch. | 02-11-2016 |
20160052621 | ENERGY EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENTS FOR TURBOMACHINERY - A method and apparatus are disclosed that allow Conformal Vortex Generator art to improve energy efficiency and control capabilities at many points in a turbomachine or device processing aero/hydrodynamic Newtonian fluid-flows. | 02-25-2016 |
20160169451 | PROCESS AND SYSTEM FOR DELIVERING STEAM | 06-16-2016 |
20180023728 | FLUID-BASED GATING MECHANISM WITH TUNABLE MULTIPHASE SELECTIVITY AND ANTIFOULING BEHAVIOR | 01-25-2018 |