CLASS 494, | IMPERFORATE BOWL: CENTRIFUGAL SEPARATORS |
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SECTION I - CLASS DEFINITION
Apparatus and process, not provided for elsewhere, for the breaking up or subdividing of material, which material comprises a mixture of fluids or fluent substances, into two or more components by utilizing a rotatable, receptacle-like member having a generally solid wall, and commonly termed a bowl, for subjecting the material to centrifugal force.
(1) Note. When the material is subjected to centrifugal force, the usual tendency is for the heavier component(s) (e.g., the "heavies") to move outwardly from the axis of rotation of the member and the lighter component(s) (e.g., the "lights") to move inwardly toward the axis. When plural heavier components of more than one density are present in the material, the outward movement ordinarily results in stratification, with the most dense component forming the layer nearest the wall, and so forth. When the heavier component, or one or more of a plurality thereof, is particulate in nature, the resulting layer, or layers, tends to be more or less solid. |
(2) Note. Most frequently, the member is capable of receiving and holding the material while at rest, and thus is truly a receptacle; in some instances (e.g., a member in the form of a open-ended cylinder), however, it can receive and hold material only when in its operating (i.e., rotating) mode. |
(3) Note. The use of the phrase "generally solid" to describe the wall of the member is not intended to infer that the wall behaves as anything other than an imperforate surface insofar as the separating function is concerned; rather, the purpose of the qualifying word is to acknowledge that there sometimes are one or more openings (e.g., discharge apertures) in the wall which serve a nonseparating function. See also Subclass References to the Current Class, below. |
SECTION II - LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
A centrifugal extractor, per se, for treating textiles is not in Class 494 if of the imperforate bowl type, inasmuch as the mixture involved is not one which this class (494) provides for. (See References to Other Classes, below.) If the extractor is perforate in nature, it may be proper for Class 210 (e.g., subclasses 360.1+).
LINE WITH CLASS 196 AND WITH CLASS 208
While the treating of a nominally mentioned oil by merely subjecting it to the action of an imperforate bowl, centrifugal separator does not go beyond the scope of this class (494), the apparatus of Class 196 and the processes of Class 208, in References to Other Classes, below, involve more; for example, (a) apparatus, or process, respectively, pertaining to an additional, chemical treatment of the oil, or (b) specific properties (e.g., the composition) of the oil or of one or more of its components.
SECTION III - SUBCLASS REFERENCES TO THE CURRENT CLASS
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43, | (2) Note, for a discussion of the phrase "generally closed," and see the Class Definition, (3) Note, above. |
SECTION IV - REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES
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29, | Metal Working, subclass 279 for a hand tool which is particularly adpated for applying or removing component parts of a centrifugal separator. |
34, | Drying and Gas or Vapor Contact With Solids, subclasses 312+ for a process of that class which involves subjecting the material being treated to centrifugal force, and subclasses 58+ for apparatus which utilizes centrifugal force. |
57, | Textiles: Spinning, Twisting, and Twining, subclasses 76+ . |
68, | Textiles: Fluid Treating Apparatus, subclasses 23+ for a machine of that class which is combined with a liquid extractor and wherein the extractor is centrifugal in nature. A centrifugal extractor, per se, for treating textiles also is in that area (23+) if of the imperforate bowl type, inasmuch as the mixture involved is not one which this class (494) provides for. For an extractor that is perforate in nature, see Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, above. |
73, | Measuring and Testing, subclasses 535+ . |
95, | Gas Separation: Processes, for processes involving steps resulting in separation of a gas from a fluid mixture comprising (a) a gas and solid or liquid particles entrained therein, (b) a liquid and gas entrained therein, or (c) a plurality of gases. However, gas separation processes that use an imperforate bowl, centrifugal separator are proper for Class 494. |
96, | Gas Separation: Apparatus, for apparatus used in separation of a gas from a fluid mixture comprising (a) a gas and solid or liquid particles entrained therein, (b) a liquid and gas entrained therein, or (c) a plurality of gases. However, gas separation apparatus that is an imperforate bowl, centrifugal separator is proper for Class 494. |
99, | Foods and Beverages: Apparatus, subclasses 452+ for apparatus of that class utilized for the mechanical, fluid or heat treatment of dairy food. Prominent in this class (494), however, is the separating of raw milk into one or more heavier components (e.g., skim milk) and one or more lighter components (e.g., cream). |
118, | Coating Apparatus, subclasses 52+ . |
124, | Mechanical Guns and Projectors, subclasses 4+ . |
127, | Sugar, Starch, and Carbohydrates, subclass 19 for apparatus of that class for treating sacchariferous material involving the treatment of sugar crystals and wherein the apparatus includes means for applying centrifugal force, and subclass 56 for a process of that class directed to the separation, in a mechanical manner, of impurities from a sugar solution and wherein centrifugal force is relied upon to separate impurities from a sugar solution which is of a different specific gravity than the impurities. |
134, | Cleaning and Liquid Contact With Solids, subclass 17 and 33. |
156, | Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture, subclass 74 . |
159, | Concentrating Evaporators, subclasses 6.1+ . |
162, | Paper Making and Fiber Liberation, subclass 384 . |
164, | Metal Founding, subclasses 114+ , 175, and 286+. |
184, | Lubrication, subclasses 6.24+ for a system of lubrication which is provided with means for treating the lubricant of the system and wherein the treatment is in the nature of purification, which may involve a separating operation. |
184, | Lubrication, subclass 43 , 70, and 77. |
196, | Mineral Oils: Apparatus, subclass 14.5 for apparatus of that class for separating wax from a petroleum oil for either recovering the wax or purifying the oil, and subclasses 46+ for apparatus adapted for separating either impurities or nonmineral oil components from mineral oil. (See Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, for the line with Class 494.) |
200, | Electricity: Circuit Makers and Breakers, subclass 80 . |
208, | Mineral Oils: Processes and Products, appropriate subclasses, for a process of that class for the recovery or treatment (including separating) of naturally occurring mineral oil, which process results in the production of a purified or modified oil or of coke. (See Lines With Other Classes and Within This Classabove, for the line with Class 494.) |
209, | Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids, appropriate subclasses, for process and apparatus for separating solid materials and assorting or segregating them in grades or classes according to physical characteristics. The relationship of Class 209 with this class (494) is explained in (6) Note of the class definition of Class 209, which reads as follows: "This class does not include apparatus or methods which involve the use of bowls or receptacles rotating at speed high enough to develop sufficient centrifugal force to separate one class of solids from others unless there is "amalgamation" involved, in which case such apparatus or methods are classifiable in subclass 60 and 199 of this class. Cases not falling within the exception noted are classifiable in Class 494, Imperforate Bowl: Centrifugal Separators. This class, however, does include some borderline cases where it is not clear that the separation of the classes of solids is wholly dependent upon centrifugal force generated by high speed rotation of the receptacle." |
210, | Liquid Purification or Separation, subclasses 360.1+ for apparatus of that class wherein the constituents of a mixture are separated by passing the mixture through a medium having openings (i.e., a filter) and wherein the medium is adapted for rapid movement about an axis of rotation, subclasses 781+ for a process of that class for separating one constituent of either a liquid-liquid or a liquid-solid mixture and wherein motion, relative to its support or housing, is imparted to the filter medium and further wherein the mixture is caused to pass through the medium by centrifugal force, and subclasses 787+ for a process for separating one constituent of either a liquid-liquid or a liquid-solid mixture and wherein centrifugal force is developed by cyclonic movement of the mixture (but not involving movement of the filter); also, see Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, above. |
239, | Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing, subclass 7 . |
241, | Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration, appropriate subclasses, for process or apparatus of that class when combined with process or apparatus for the separation of material. The relationship of that class (241) to the material separating classes is explained in Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, in the class definition thereof, which reads, in part, as follows: "Class 241 is superior to the material separation classes and, therefore, provides for processes and apparatus in which comminution is combined with steps or means to separate the material into classes according to the physical characteristics of its components, before, during, or after the comminuting operation. See subclasses 9+ , 24 and 68+ or, if the separation involves applying a fluid to the material, subclasses 19, 20 and 38+." |
264, | Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating: Processes, subclass 8 , 114, 270, and 311. |
266, | Metallurgical Apparatus, subclass 204 and 227+. |
277, | Seal for a Joint or Juncture, subclasses 427+ and 433. |
366, | Agitating, subclass 263 . |
415, | Rotary Kinetic Fluid Motors or Pumps, subclasses 13+ , 25, and 89. |
422, | Chemical Apparatus and Process Disinfecting, Deodorizing, Preserving, or Sterilizing, subclass 72 for apparatus of that class comprising means for analyzing a liquid or solid sample and wherein the means includes a centrifuge. |
427, | Coating Processes, subclass 240 . |
451, | Abrading, subclasses 465+ and 506. |
SECTION V - GLOSSARY
BOWL
A receptacle-like member having generally-imperforate sidewalls and constituting that portion of a SEPARATOR within which the subdividing of material into two or more components takes place, or, at least, commences. Ordinarily considered as part of the member are such devices or structure as are either affixed thereto or integral therewith. The art term, rotor, is sometimes used to mean approximately the same as BOWL. (See the Class Definition, (2) Note and (3) Note, above, and see Subclass References to the Current Class, above, for a discussion of the phrase "generally closed.")
SEPARATOR
The combination of a BOWL plus such other devices or structure not clearly a part of the BOWL as are necessary to constitute apparatus of the kind capable of subdividing material by subjecting it to centrifugal force within the BOWL. The art terms, centrifuge and centrifugal, are sometimes used to mean approximately the same as SEPARATOR.
SUBCLASSES
1 | WITH CONDITION RESPONSIVE MEANS: | ||||||
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus provided with means which reacts to a condition,
or a change of condition, of the separator, or the environment of
the separator, or the material entering, within, or departing from
the separator, the reaction of the means serving as a response to
the condition or the change therein.
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2 | For controlling outlet valve: |
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Apparatus wherein the means is one which serves to operate, or to regulate the operation of, a valve which controls an outlet of the separator, usually located on the receptacle-like member. | |
3 | In response to location of inner boundary of heavy component: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Apparatus wherein the condition to which the means reacts
is the locus defining the innermost extent to which stratification
of the heavier component of the material has progressed within the
member.
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4 | In response to centrifugal force: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Apparatus wherein the condition to which the means reacts
is the effect of the force imposed upon it by the rotation of the
member.
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5 | For controlling inlet valve: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Apparatus wherein the means is one which serves to operate,
or to regulate operation of, a valve which controls an inlet of
the separator, which valve occasionally is located on the receptacle-like
member.
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6 | In response to level of liquid-type material in bowl or in reservoir for supplying bowl: |
This subclass is indented under subclass 5. Apparatus wherein the condition to which the means reacts is the location of the surface of a quantity of material to be, or being, separated, which surface is that formed by the material when it is in either the receptacle-like member or in a container which furnishes (e.g., meters) it to the member, and which material is in the nature of either a liquid or a slurry. | |
7 | For controlling drive of (a) bowl or (b) driven means within bowl: | ||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Apparatus wherein the means is one which serves to operate,
or to regulate the operation of, a motor, transmission or other
device which drives either (a) the receptacle-like member or (b)
a conveyor, an agitator or other driven device located in the member.
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8 | In response to load imposed upon driven means: |
This subclass is indented under subclass 7. Apparatus wherein the condition to which the means reacts is the effort (e.g., the torque) which the conveyor, agitator or other driven device in the member must develop to move the material which it engages therein. | |
9 | In response to speed of bowl or rotarily-driven means therewithin: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 7. Apparatus wherein the condition to which the means reacts
is the velocity, usually expressed in revolutions per minute, at
which either the member, or a device therein which is driven rotatably,
turns, or a change in that value.
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10 | WITH MEANS FOR INDICATING, INSPECTING, MEASURING, SIGNALING, OR TESTING: | ||||||||||
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus provided with means for carrying out, or for facilitating
the carrying out of, those purposes ordinarily associated with the functions
of indicating, inspecting, measuring, signaling, or testing, which
means might comprise, but are not limited to, a tachometer, a viewing
port, a scale, an audible or visual alarm, or a viscosimeter, respectively.
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11 | WITH CYCLIC OR TIME CONTROL MEANS: | ||||||||||
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus provided with means for causing the separator,
or a component thereof, to operate in accordance with (a) a predetermined sequence
of events (e.g., program control by a cam), or (b) the progression
of time (e.g., the length of time to be allotted to each of one
or more phases of the separating function) as determined by a device
having at least the capability of establishing a time interval (e.g.,
a timer) and possibly having also the capability of relating the
time interval to the time of day (e.g., a clock-timer).
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12 | INCLUDING MEANS OR STRUCTURE FOR PROMOTING SAFETY: | ||||
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus which includes a provision in the nature of a
device or element, or merely a structural feature, which is indicated
as being intended to reduce or eliminate one or more hazards of
a kind associated with the separator, especially during its operation.
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13 | WITH MEANS FOR EXCHANGING HEAT: | ||||||
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus provided with means for changing the heat content
of either the material or the separator.
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14 | Comprising or including means for cooling: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 13. Apparatus wherein the means for changing the heat content
comprises or includes a device, fluid or system for reducing the
heat content.
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15 | WITH MEANS FOR LUBRICATING: | ||||
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus provided with means for furnishing antifriction
material to one or more regions thereof.
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16 | INCLUDING PLURALITY OF MINIATURE BOWLS (E.G., TEST TUBES) DISTRIBUTED ABOUT A ROTATABLE CARRIER AND READILY REMOVABLE THEREFROM: | ||||||||||||||||
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus which includes two or more, extremely small, receptacle-like
members for receiving the mixture and holding it during separation,
and a revolving support for holding, at intervals spaced therearound,
the members and further wherein the members are retained by the
support in such a manner that they may be more or less easily disengaged
therefrom.
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17 | And means for introducing either material or auxiliary fluid into bowls: | ||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 16. Apparatus which includes also means for feeding either (a)
the material which is to be separated or (b) one or more fluids,
which fluid or fluids are not initially a part of the material to be
separated, to the members.
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18 | Including conduit of flexible umbilical cable type: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 17. Apparatus which further includes a flaccid, tubular element
for conducting the mixture or other fluid from a stationary supply,
or supply connection, to or from the receptacles while they are
rotating with the carrier.
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19 | And means for rotating each bowl about own axis: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 16. Apparatus which includes also means for imparting rotary
movement, about its principle axis, to each of the members.
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20 | Having bowls, or holders therefor, pivotably attached to carrier for tilting during rotation of carrier: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 16. Apparatus wherein either each member, or each of a plurality
of receivers provided with accommodations for one or more members,
is joined to the support in a manner (e.g., pivoted at a locus above
the center of gravity of the member or the receiver) whereby the
lower portion of each member or receiver will swing, about a horizontal
axis, outwardly and upwardly when acted upon by the centrifugal force
developed by the revolving of the support.
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21 | Comprising flexible bowls embraced by pockets provided therefor in carrier: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 16. Apparatus wherein the members are flaccid in nature and
are held within cavities, compartments or the like located in the
revolving support.
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22 | INCLUDING INTRODUCTION OF DIFFERING-WEIGHT FLUIDS (E.G., LIQUIDS) FOR COUNTERCURRENT FLOW: | ||||||||||||
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus which includes supplying to the bowl two or more
fluids, usually two liquids but sometimes a liquid and a gas, which differ
in specific gravity and which difference enables radially outwardly
movement of the heavier fluid to take place more or less simultaneously
with radially inwardly movement of the lighter fluid.
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23 | WITH MEANS FOR FURNISHING AUXILIARY FLUID TO MATERIAL OR APPARATUS: | ||||||||||||||||||||
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus provided with means for introducing, or for facilitating
the introduction of, one or more fluids, which fluid or fluids are
not initially a part of the material intended to undergo separation,
to the material or to one or more components or elements of the
separator.
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24 | Energy of fluid utilized for driving bowl: | ||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 23. Apparatus wherein the fluid is under pressure or otherwise
possesses energy, and wherein that property of the fluid is used
for imparting rotation to the member.
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25 | Gas other than air: |
This subclass is indented under subclass 23. Apparatus wherein the fluid introduced is in the nature of a gas, and wherein the gas has a composition which serves to distinguish it from that gas commonly considered to constitute "air". | |
26 | Air at atmospheric, or greater, pressure: | ||||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 23. Apparatus wherein the fluid introduced is air which is at
either the pressure normal to the region in which the separator
is located or a pressure which is elevated from that pressure.
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27 | Liquid: | ||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 23. Apparatus wherein the fluid introduced is in the nature
of a liquid.
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28 | Moving radially inwardly toward axis of rotation of bowl: | ||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Apparatus wherein the liquid flows from one or more regions
removed from the axis about which the member turns (e.g., an inlet
on the periphery of the member) in the direction of that axis.
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29 | Furnished at plural locations: | ||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Apparatus wherein the liquid is introduced at more than
one place.
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30 | Including one or more valves in incoming path: |
This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Apparatus wherein at least one valve is provided for controlling the liquid which is enroute to the separator. | |
31 | INCLUDING PLURALITY OF SEPARATE AND DISTINCT BOWLS: | ||||||||||||
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus which includes two or more receptacle-like members,
no one of which members is contained in whole or in part in any other
member, and each of which members serves as the locus of a separating
function.
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32 | And means external of bowls for conducting material therebetween: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 31. Apparatus which includes means (e.g., a conduit, surface,
etc.) for enabling material to move from one member to another,
which means is located, at least in part, outside of one or both
of the members with which it is associated.
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33 | Having bowls equally spaced from a central axis of rotation for orbiting thereabout: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 31. Apparatus wherein the members describe a common path as
they turn about an axis from which each member is equidistantly
removed.
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34 | Having bowls spaced along common axis of rotation: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 31. Apparatus wherein the members occupy successive, but not
overlapping, positions along the axis about which they turn.
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35 | BOWLS AND MEANS EXTERNAL THEREOF FOR RECIRCULATING MATERIAL: | ||||||||||||
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus wherein a receptacle-like member is provided with
means, located at least in part outside thereof, for conducting material
away from the member and subsequently returning all or a part of
that material to the member.
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36 | WITH MEANS FOR FILTERING: | ||||||
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus provided with means for removing an undesired
or unintended constituent (e.g., particles of a solid) from material which
is enroute to, or within, or enroute from, a separator, and wherein
the means is a medium of a porous or perforate nature which is placed
in the flow path of the material and prevents the constituent from
continuing to accompany the remainder of the material.
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37 | PROCESS: | ||||
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Method of (a) breaking down a mixture into two or more component
parts by means of an imperforate bowl, centrifugal separator or (b)
operating an imperforate bowl centrifugal separator for such a purpose.
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38 | INCLUDING SEALING MEANS: | ||||||||
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus which includes means for preventing the unintended
movement of a gas, liquid or solid to or from, or from one region
to another of, the separator.
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39 | For protecting evacuated, bowl-enclosing housing against gaseous infiltration: | ||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 38. Apparatus wherein the means comprises a device or element
for preventing the leakage or air or any other gas at ambient pressure
into, and thereby raising the absolute pressure within, a structure
in which the pressure has been reduced to less than atmospheric
and within which the bowl is located.
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40 | Comprising seal, or element cooperating therewith, movable axially for controlling outlet on periphery of bowl: | ||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 38. Apparatus wherein the means comprises either a seal (e.g.,
a gasket) or an element (e.g., a surface for engaging the seal),
which is movable in a direction paralleling the axis of the member
for the purpose of opening or closing one or more apertures located,
usually, on a line representing a circumference of the member.
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41 | For sealing between stationary and moving elements: |
This subclass is indented under subclass 38. Apparatus wherein one region moves relative to the surrounding area and the other region does not. | |
42 | INCLUDING DRIVEN MEANS AT LEAST PARTIALLY EXTERNAL OF BOWL FOR MOVING MATERIAL THERETO OR THEREFROM: | ||
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus which includes means (e.g., a pump, a screw conveyor)
which is located either (a) entirely outside the receptacle-like member,
or (b) partly outside the member and having a portion extending
thereinto, and wherein the means serves to move the material either
(a) toward, or toward and into, or (b) away from, or out of and
away from, the member.
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43 | ROTATABLE BOWL: | ||||||||||
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus comprising the receptacle-like member, or one
or more elements or portions thereof, of a separator, which member
is (a) generally closed insofar as its sidewall structure is concerned
and (b) subjected to turning about its principal axis for causing
material supplied to it to be divided into two or more components.
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44 | Comprising plurality of bowls partly or wholly within one another: | ||||||||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Apparatus wherein the member comprises two or more receptacle-like
members, which members at least partially enclose one another.
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45 | Including flexible, removable lining therein: | ||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Apparatus including structure within the member in the nature
of a membrane which (a) serves to line all or some portion of the
interior of the member, (b) is elastically or plastically deformable,
and (c) is adapted to be inserted into or taken out of the member.
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46 | Including bearing means adapted to enable bowl to establish dynamic axis of rotation: | ||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Apparatus which includes one or more surfaces which engage
either the member or an element (e.g., the drive spindle) thereof
and which surfaces are so constructed, mounted, etc., as to permit
the member, when placed in rotation, to define, as the axis about
which it turns, a line which may be slightly offset, in whole or
part, from that line which appears to represent its geometric center
when at rest.
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47 | Including means for imparting other movements to bowl in whole or in part before, during or after its axial rotation: | ||||||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Apparatus which includes means for moving the member, or
at least one portion thereof relative to another portion, in some
manner other than its customary turning about its principal axis,
and wherein the means may act either during the time the member
is turning or prior to or subsequent to such time.
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48 | Axial movement of one portion of bowl wall relative to another (e.g., for discharging): | ||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 47. Apparatus wherein the wall of the member is subdivided in
an axial direction for creating at least two separable parts, and
the means moves at least one of the parts axially away from or toward
at least one other of the parts.
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49 | Driven by energy of material supplied: |
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Apparatus wherein the energy for causing the member to turn about its axis is derived, in whole or in part, from the pressure or other energy possessed by the material to be, being, or which has been, separated. | |
50 | Including driven material-moving means therein: | ||||||||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Apparatus which includes driven means located within the
member for imparting movement to all or any portion of the material
contained in the member, which movement differs in either form or
function from that caused by the rotation of the member about its
axis.
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51 | Plural driven means: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 50. Apparatus wherein two or more driven means, at least two
of which means are independent of one another in one or more characteristics,
are present.
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52 | Rotatably driven coaxially with bowl but differing as to direction or speed: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 50. Apparatus wherein the driven means is one which is rotated
about an axis, and wherein that axis coincides with the axis of
rotation of the member, and further wherein the means is driven
in a direction, or at a speed, which differs from the direction,
or the speed, of the member.
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53 | Including element having helical blade: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Apparatus wherein the driven means includes a material-engaging
portion which is in the nature of a screw thread; e.g., a screw
conveyor.
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54 | Modified blade: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 53. Apparatus wherein the portion is so altered or changed as
to be structurally dissimilar, in one or more respects, to a conventional
screw thread, the alterations or changes being for a purpose related
to the portion"s function in the separating operation.
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55 | Including plurality of discrete pushing or scraping elements moving proximate to material collecting surface of bowl: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Apparatus wherein the driven means includes two or more
separate (i.e., noncontinuous), material-engaging elements (e.g.,
blades, plows), which elements force material from their path as
they travel adjacent those portions of the member upon which the
material tends to accumulate.
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56 | Including discharge-related structure in nature of (a) outlet having device for controlling quantity of flow, (b) element associated with pickup of material and adjustable for varying quality of flow, or (c) static scraper or the like for engaging material in moving bowl: | ||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Apparatus which includes structure that is involved in either
the preparation for departure, of the departure, or both, of material
from the member and which structure takes the form of (a) an exit
passage which includes a valve or like device for varying the amount
of material moving through the passage, or (b) an element which
is related to the gathering of material that is to be conducted
out of the member and which element is repositionable or otherwise adjustable
for changing the ratio of the lighter component or components to
the heavier component or components in the material gathered, or
(c) a blade or similar abutment which, except for purposes of repositioning,
is stationary relative to a member which is turning about its axis
and serves to dislodge (e.g., peel off) material being moved against
it by the member.
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57 | Element associated with pickup of material and adjustable for varying quality of flow: | ||||||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 56. Apparatus comprising an element which is related to the
gathering of material that is to be conducted out of the member
and which element is repositionable or otherwise adjustable for
changing the ratio of the lighter component or components to the
heavier component or components in the material gathered.
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58 | Static scraper or the like for engaging material in moving bowl: | ||||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 56. Apparatus comprising a blade or similar abutment which,
except for purposes of repositioning, is stationary relative to
a member which is turning about its axis, and serves to dislodge (e.g.,
peel off) material being moved against it by the member.
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59 | And structure to receive or guide material loosened: |
This subclass is indented under subclass 58. Apparatus comprising structure which either accumulates, or provides a path for the movement of, material which has been dislodged by the blade. | |
60 | Including housing for bowl: | ||||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Apparatus wherein the member is provided with structure
for enclosing or shrouding it to one degree or another.
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61 | With means for reducing, and maintaining, pressure in housing below that of environment: | ||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 60. Apparatus wherein the enclosing or shrouding structure is
provided with means for (a) at least partially evacuating the structure
relative to its surroundings and (b) keeping it approximately at
that degree of evacuation.
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62 | Serving to support bowl from above: |
This subclass is indented under subclass 60. Apparatus wherein the enclosing or shrouding structure includes a provision for suspending the member. | |
63 | For vertically-oriented bowl, and having plural receivers at top for separated components: | ||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 60. Apparatus wherein the enclosing or shrouding structure has
an upper portion which comprises two or more compartments, into
each of which is fed a separate component of the material.
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64 | Having structural provision for facilitating cleaning (e.g., quick take-apart): | ||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Apparatus wherein the member has, as an aspect of its structure,
one or more features which are intended to expedite, simplify or
otherwise contribute to (e.g., by affording accessibility) the removal
of material therefrom, frequently material which has accumulated therein
during a separating operation.
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65 | Vertically-oriented, and including structural provision for bottom entry of material: | ||||||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Apparatus wherein the member is one which turns about a
vertical axis, and wherein the member includes structure defining
an inlet or the like whereby material enters the member through
that portion thereof which is lowermost.
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66 | Including structure located within bowl and defining axially-extending, helical flow path: | ||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Apparatus wherein the member includes internal structure
which moves with it and serves to establish a route for the movement
of at least part of the material, and wherein the route established
is in the form of a helix which parallels the axis of rotation of
the member.
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67 | Including structure located within vertically-oriented bowl and extending outwardly from central region (e.g., axis) thereof: | ||||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Apparatus wherein the member turns about a generally vertical
axis and includes internal structure which moves with it, and wherein
the structure is so formed and positioned as to extend away from
either (a) the axis of rotation of the member, or (b) a locus somewhat removed
from the axis, in a manner whereby it is directed, at least in part,
toward a sidewall of the member.
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68 | Comprising plurality of elements, each concentrically encircling axis of bowl and spaced therealong: | ||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 67. Apparatus wherein the internal structure comprises, at least
in part, a plurality of elements which are centered on and extend
around the vertical axis of the member and which are arrayed (e.g.,
nested, stacked, etc.) along that axis in such a manner that at
least a slight gap exists between any two adjacent elements.
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69 | Each extended generally normally to region, and having surface displaying three-dimensional configuration: | ||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 68. Apparatus wherein the outward extension of each of the elements
is at more or less of a right angle to the axis, or to a locus somewhat removed
from the axis, and wherein each element has at least one of its
two, principal (i.e., more or less axially-facing) surfaces formed with
a pattern which includes a depth (i.e., a normal-to-the-surface)
dimension.
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70 | Each extending away from region with significant downward, as well as significant outward, component (e.g., nested cones): | ||||||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 68. Apparatus wherein each of the elements shows, in section,
a profile which is directed not only appreciably outwardly, but
also appreciably downwardly, as the element extends away from the
axis, or from a locus somewhat removed from the axis.
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71 | And the plurality divided vertically into two or more, physically separate or functionally distinct groups: |
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Apparatus wherein the plurality of elements comprise at least two groups of elements, one above another, and wherein the manner in which the groups can be differentiated may lie either (a) in the fact that one group is spaced from another group or (b) in the fact that one group plays a somewhat different role (e.g., is utilized at a different time) in the separating function than does another group. | |
72 | And extending therebeyond generally downwardly: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Apparatus wherein each element extends additionally, beyond
the downward and outward portion, in a direction which is at least
principally, if not exclusively, downward.
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73 | And one or more elements having surface displaying three-dimensional configuration: | ||||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Apparatus wherein at least one of the elements has one or
both of its two, principal (i.e., more or less axially-facing) surfaces
formed with a pattern which includes a depth (i.e., a normal-to-the-surface)
dimension.
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74 | Comprising plurality of axially-extending, plate-like elements, each having its inner edge lying along central region: | ||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 67. Apparatus wherein the internal structure comprises, at least
in part, a plurality of elements which (a) parallel the axis of
the member, (b) have length (i.e., height) and width dimensions, especially
the former, which greatly exceed their thickness dimension, and
(c) each have the edge thereof which faces toward the interior of
the member located proximate to either the axis or a locus parallel
thereto and somewhat removed therefrom.
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75 | And each extending outwardly in curve of changing or constant radius: | ||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 74. Apparatus wherein that dimension (i.e., width) of each element
which extends outwardly describes, in a horizontal section, a nonlinear path
in the nature of either a spiral or an arc of a circle.
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76 | Including plurality of axially-extending, tubular elements located within vertically-oriented bowl: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Apparatus wherein the member turns about a generally vertical
axis and includes internal structure which moves with it, and wherein
that structure comprises, at least in part, a plurality of elements
which parallel the axis and are in the nature of hollow cylinders.
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77 | Each element concentric with axis of bowl: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 76. Apparatus wherein each of the elements has, as its center,
the axis of the member, whereby the elements are located one within
another.
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78 | And at least one element having other-than-circular periphery: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 77. Apparatus wherein one or more of the elements describes,
in horizontal section, something other than a mere circle.
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79 | Including plurality of axially-extending, plate-like elements located within vertically-oriented bowl: | ||||||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Apparatus wherein the member turns about a generally vertical
axis and includes internal structure which moves with it, and wherein
that structure comprises, at least in part, a plurality of elements
which (a) parallel the axis of the member and (b) have length (i.e.,
height) and width dimensions, especially the former, which greatly
exceed their thickness dimension.
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80 | Including plurality of shelf-like elements located within vertically-oriented bowl and extending generally horizontally inwardly from wall thereof: | ||
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Apparatus wherein the member turns about a generally vertical
axis and includes internal structure which moves with it, and wherein
that structure comprises, at least in part, a plurality of elements
which (a) have more or less planar, upwardly-facing surfaces and
(b) extend more or less normally from the inner surface of the sidewall
of the member toward the axis thereof.
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81 | Material of bowl wall: | ||||
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Apparatus wherein the wall of the member is claimed in terms
of the chemical, mechanical, metallurgical, or physical characteristics
or properties of the substance or substances of which it is formed.
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82 | INCLUDING VIBRATION DAMPING MEANS: | ||||||||||||
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus which includes means for reducing, eliminating
or counteracting the development of unintended movement (e.g., oscillatory,
reciprocatory) on the part of the separator or a component thereof.
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83 | INCLUDING BEARING STRUCTURE: | ||||||
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus which includes one or more devices for aligning,
supporting or otherwise holding a component which is subject to
movement (e.g., linear, rotary) relative to a component which is
stationary, and isolating, to one degree or another, the effect
of the movement of the one upon the nonmovement of the other.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
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84 | INCLUDING SPECIFIC DEVICE OR STRUCTURE FOR DRIVING OR CONTROLLING BOWL: | ||||||||
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus which includes a prime mover, gear train, clutch,
brake, or the like, for starting, rotating, or stopping, or otherwise
regulating the speed of, the member, which prime mover, etc., is
either claimed with specificity or else is claimed broadly but disclosed
in detail.
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85 | MISCELLANEOUS: |
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus not otherwise provided for. | |
CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS
900 | INVOLVING MIXTURE CONTAINING ONE OR MORE GASES: |
Separating apparatus wherein at least one gas is present in the mixture entering the apparatus. | |
901 | INVOLVING MIXTURE CONTAINING OIL: |
Separating apparatus wherein oil of one kind or another is present in the mixture entering the apparatus. | |
902 | INVOLVING THE USE OF MERCURY: |
Separating apparatus wherein mercury is utilized, directly or indirectly, to contribute to, supplement, etc., the functioning of the apparatus. | |