| |
| United States Patent
|
7,018,528 |
| Lee |
March 28, 2006 |
Portable purifying system
Abstract
A portable purifying system for improved filtering and/or
separating of cleaning solutions such as solvents, particularly
those used in parts washers. The purifying system utilizes a
removable reservoir to provide a smaller reservoir within a larger
reservoir such as a parts washer. The portable purifying system
provides an apparatus and method of use to perform the following
steps: using re-circulating solvent from the larger reservoir,
washing oily parts in such manner that oily residue from the washed
parts is deposited in the smaller reservoir; separating cleaner
portions of solvent from dirtier portions of solvent within the
smaller reservoir using density differences to separate by gravity
action cleaner portions from dirtier portions; moving the cleaner
portions of solvent into the larger reservoir; and periodically
emptying and cleaning the smaller reservoir.
| Inventors: |
Lee; F. Donald
(Goodyear, AZ) |
| Appl. No.:
|
10/758,796 |
| Filed: |
January 15, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
|
60447790 |
Feb., 2003 |
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| Current U.S.
Class: |
210/167.29
; 134/109; 134/110; 210/167.31; 210/223; 210/232; 210/538 |
| Current
International Class: |
B08B
3/10 (20060101); B01D 17/02 (20060101); B01D
17/032 (20060101); B08B 3/14 (20060101) |
| Field of
Search: |
210/167,222,223,232,261,416.1,435,459,460,473,538
134/107,108,109,110,172,198 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent
Documents
Primary Examiner: Prince; Fred G.
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
Stoneman Law Offices, Ltd. Stoneman; Martin L.
Parent Case Text
The present application is related to prior provisional application
Ser. No. 60/447,790, filed Feb. 14, 2003, entitled "PORTABLE
PURIFYING SYSTEM", from which priority is claimed, the contents of
which are incorporated herein by this reference and are not admitted
to be prior art with respect to the present invention by the mention
in this cross-reference section.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A portable purifying system comprising, in combination: a) first
reservoir means, comprising a first configuration, at least one
upper rim portion, at least one open top portion, and at least one
side wall, for collecting, through said at least one open top, at
least one mixture comprising a first ratio of at least one desired
material and at least one second ratio of at least one undesired
material; b) gravity means for using gravity to separate differing
densities among the at least one first ratio of the at least one
desired material and the at least one second ratio of the at least
one undesired material; c) retrieving means for retrieving, from at
least one selected location in said first reservoir means, a higher
ratio of the at least one desired material; and d) outlet means for
providing an outlet spill outside said first reservoir means; e)
wherein said retrieving means comprises debris separating means for
separating debris from the at least one desired material; f) wherein
said first configuration of said first reservoir means comprises
said gravity means; and g) wherein said retrieving means comprises
substantially vertical cylinder means for forming at least one
passageway from the at least one selected location to said outlet
means, said outlet means being at least as high as at least one
location adjacent said upper rim portion of said first reservoir
means.
2. The purifying system according to claim 1 further comprising: a)
second reservoir means for holding essentially the at least one
desired material; b) wherein said first reservoir means is removably
situate within said second reservoir means.
3. The purifying system according to claim 1 wherein said retrieving
means comprises filtering means restricting passage of the at least
one such undesired material.
4. A portable purifying system comprising, in combination: a) at
least one first reservoir, comprising a first configuration, at
least one upper rim portion, at least one open top portion, and at
least one side wall, adapted to collect, through said at least one
open top, at least one mixture comprising a first ratio of at least
one desired material and at least one second ratio of at least one
undesired material; b) at least one gravity separator to use gravity
to separate differing densities among the at least one first ratio
of the at least one desired material and the at least one second
ratio of the at least one undesired material; c) at least one
retriever to retrieve from at least one selected location in said at
least one first reservoir, a higher ratio of the at least one
desired material; and d) at least one outlet adapted to provide at
least one outlet spill outside said at least one first reservoir; e)
wherein said retriever comprises at least one debris separator to
separate debris from the at least one desired material; f) wherein
said first configuration of said at least one first reservoir
comprises said at least one gravity separator; and g) wherein said
at least one retriever comprises at least one substantially vertical
cylinder to form at least one passageway from the at least one
selected location to said at least one outlet, said at least one
outlet being at least as high as at least one location adjacent said
upper rim portion of said at least one first reservoir.
5. The purifying system according to claim 4 further comprising: a)
at least one second reservoir structured and arranged to hold
essentially the at least one desired material; b) wherein said at
least one first reservoir is removably situate within said at least
one second reservoir.
6. The purifying system according to claim 5 further comprising at
least one support adapted to support said at least one first
reservoir within said at least one second reservoir.
7. The purifying system according to claim 4 wherein said at least
one retriever comprises at least one filter restricting passage of
the at least one such undesired material.
8. The purifying system according to claim 7 wherein said at least
one filter comprises polypropylene structured and arranged to filter
oils from the at least one such desired material.
9. The purifying system according to claim 4 wherein said at least
one first reservoir is portable.
10. The purifying system according to claim 4 wherein said at least
one first reservoir is removably attached to at least one wash
basin.
11. A portable purifying system comprising, in combination: a) at
least one portable reservoir comprising a first configuration, at
least one upper rim portion, at least one open top portion, and at
least one side wall, adapted to collect, through said at least one
open top, at least one mixture comprising a first ratio of at least
one desired material and at least one second ratio of at least one
undesired material; b) at least one vertical cylinder, having i) at
least one inlet portion to retrieve from at least one selected
location in said at least one portable reservoir, a higher ratio of
the at least one desired material, and ii) at least one outlet
portion adapted to provide at least one outlet spill outside said at
least one first reservoir; c) wherein said at least one vertical
cylinder is attached to said at least one reservoir such that said
at least one inlet portion draws from at least one selected location
within said at least one reservoir and said at least one outlet
portion outlets through said at least one side wall outside of said
at least one reservoir; and d) wherein said first configuration of
said at least one reservoir comprises at least one gravity separator
to use gravity to separate differing densities among the at least
one first ratio of the at least one desired material and the at
least one second ratio of the at least one undesired material.
12. The purifying system according to claim 11 further comprising at
least one oil-blocking filter removably covering said at least one
inlet.
13. The purifying system according to claim 12 further comprising at
least one first O-ring adapted to removably couple said at least one
oil-blocking filter to said at least one inlet.
14. The purifying system according to claim 13 further comprising at
least one second O-ring adapted to provide at least one seal between
said at least one outlet portion and said at least one side wall of
said at least one reservoir.
15. The purifying system according to claim 12 further comprising at
least one magnetic attractor located within or closely adjacent said
at least one reservoir.
16. The purifying system according to claim 15 wherein said at least
one magnetic attractor is located near at least one bottom portion
of said at least one reservoir.
17. The purifying system according to claim 16 wherein said at least
one reservoir has a fluid capacity of about five gallons.
18. The purifying system according to claim 17 wherein said at least
one reservoir comprises one 5-gallon bucket.
19. The purifying system according to claim 16 further comprising at
least one wash basin.
20. The purifying system according to claim 19 further comprising:
a) at least one support, having at least one circumferential band
and at least three support legs attached to said at least one
circumferential band; b) wherein said at least one reservoir is
removably supported by said at least one support.
21. The purifying system according to claim 20 further comprising at
least one height adjuster structured and arranged to adjust the
height of said at least one support.
22. The purifying system according to claim 19 further comprising at
least one support, having at least one first panel and at least one
second panel, adapted to support said at least one reservoir and
adapted to be transported substantially flat.
23. A portable purifying system comprising, in combination: a) means
for providing a smaller reservoir within a larger reservoir; b)
means for using re-circulating solvent from the larger reservoir,
washing oily parts in such manner that oily residue from the washed
parts is deposited in the smaller reservoir; c) means, within the
smaller reservoir, for separating cleaner portions of solvent from
dirtier portions of solvent; d) means for moving the cleaner
portions of solvent into the larger reservoir; e) means for using
density differences to separate by gravity action cleaner portions
from dirtier portions; and f) means for periodically emptying and
cleaning the smaller reservoir.
24. A portable purifying system comprising, in combination the steps
of: a) providing a smaller reservoir within a larger reservoir; b)
using re-circulating solvent from the larger reservoir, washing oily
parts in such manner that oily residue from the washed parts is
deposited in the smaller reservoir; c) within the smaller reservoir,
separating cleaner portions of solvent from dirtier portions of
solvent; d) moving the cleaner portions of solvent into the larger
reservoir; e) using density differences to separate by gravity
action cleaner portions from dirtier portions; and f) periodically
emptying and cleaning the smaller reservoir.
Description
BACKGROUND
This invention relates to providing a purifying system for purifying
cleaning solutions such as solvents being used for washing oily
components, particularly those used in parts washers (such as auto
parts washers). Solvents for parts washers typically include
petroleum distillate solvents or aqueous cleaning solvents. This
invention relates most generally to aqueous cleaning solvents;
however, it may be useful with petroleum distillate solvents as
well.
Typically, parts washers are used to clean parts that are dirty and
remove waste products such as hydrocarbons, oils and metallic
shavings. Parts washers typically have a basin with an attached hose
(one or more) for dispensing the cleaning solvent onto the parts.
The parts are typically placed in the basin and the cleaning solvent
poured over the parts while being washed (washing includes
scrubbing, brushing and soaking). The unwanted material from the
parts is washed down a drain in the basin, most typically back into
a reservoir below or adjacent the basin. Typically, the cleaning
solvent is pumped from a large reservoir beneath the basin such that
the cleaning solvent is re-circulated. Again, as the parts are
washed, a great deal of waste is removed from the parts such as
dirt, metals and assorted oils. These sediments and oils are mixed
with the cleaning solvent and eventually degrade the cleaning
solvent, thereby reducing its effectiveness such that it must be
replaced. Such cleaning solvents are costly both to purchase when
new and to dispose of when old (as they are generally considered to
be hazardous materials, especially when used).
Furthermore, there are often metals and other such debris in the
solvent that are undesirable and may even damage the re-circulating
pump, typically located near the bottom of the reservoir. It would
be advantageous to have a purifying system that would prolong the
life of the solvent. It would also be advantageous to have a
purifying system that would better protect the pump mechanism. It
would also be advantageous to provide a means for removing oils from
the solvent thereby increasing the useful life of the solvent.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
A primary object and feature of the present invention is to provide
a purifying system for purifying the solvent and filtering out oils
and debris such that the life of the solvent would be prolonged.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system that is portable and easily cleaned.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system that reduces the amount of hazardous waste
generated by current parts washers.
A further primary object and feature of the present invention is to
provide such a system that is efficient, inexpensive, and handy.
Other objects and features of this invention will become apparent
with reference to the following descriptions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this invention
provides a portable purifying system comprising, in combination:
first reservoir means, comprising a first configuration, at least
one upper rim portion, at least one open top portion, and at least
one side wall for collecting, through such at least one open top, at
least one mixture comprising a first ratio of at least one desired
material and at least one second ratio of at least one undesired
material; gravity means for using gravity to separate differing
densities among the at least one first ratio of the at least one
desired material and the at least one second ratio of the at least
one undesired material; retrieving means for retrieving, from at
least one selected location in such at least one first reservoir
means, a higher ratio of the at least one desired material; and
outlet means for providing an outlet spill outside such first
reservoir means; wherein such retrieving means comprises debris
separating means for separating debris from the at least one desired
material; wherein such first configuration of such first reservoir
means comprises such gravity means; and wherein such retrieving
means comprises substantially vertical cylinder means for forming at
least one passageway from the at least one selected location to such
outlet means, such outlet means being at least as high as at least
one location adjacent such upper rim portion of such first reservoir
means.
Moreover, it provides such a purifying system further comprising:
second reservoir means for holding essentially the at least one
desired material; wherein such first reservoir means is removably
situate within such second reservoir means. Additionally, it
provides such a purifying system wherein such retrieving means
comprises filtering means restricting passage of the at least one
such undesired material. Also, it provides such a purifying system
wherein such first reservoir means is portable. In addition, it
provides such a purifying system further comprising at least one
support means for supporting such first reservoir means within such
second reservoir means. And, it provides such a purifying system
wherein such first reservoir means is removably attached to at least
one washbasin. Further, it provides such a purifying system wherein
such filtering means comprises polypropylene means for filtering
oils from at least one such desired material.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides in combination: at least one first reservoir,
comprising a first configuration, at least one upper rim portion, at
least one open top portion, and at least one side wall, adapted to
collect, through such at least one open top, at least one mixture
comprising a first ratio of at least one desired material and at
least one second ratio of at least one undesired material; at least
one gravity separator to use gravity to separate differing densities
among the at least one first ratio of the at least one desired
material and the at least one second ratio of the at least one
undesired material; at least one retriever to retrieve from at least
one selected location in such at least one first reservoir, a higher
ratio of the at least one desired material; and at least one outlet
adapted to provide at least one outlet spill outside such at least
one first reservoir; wherein such retriever comprises at least one
debris separator to separate debris from the at least one desired
material; wherein such first configuration of such at least one
first reservoir comprises such at least one gravity separator; and
wherein such at least one retriever comprises at least one
substantially vertical cylinder to form at least one passageway from
the at least one selected location to such at least one outlet, such
at least one outlet being at least as high as at least one location
adjacent such upper rim portion of such at least one first
reservoir.
Even further, it provides such a purifying system further
comprising: at least one second reservoir structured and arranged to
hold essentially the at least one desired material; wherein such at
least one first reservoir is removably situate within such at least
one second reservoir. Moreover, it provides such a purifying system
wherein such at least one retriever comprises at least one filter
restricting passage of the at least one such undesired material.
Additionally, it provides such a purifying system wherein such first
reservoir is portable. Also, it provides such a purifying system
further comprising at least one support adapted to support such at
least one first reservoir within such at least one second reservoir.
In addition, it provides such a purifying system wherein such first
reservoir means is removably attached to at least one washbasin.
And, it provides such a purifying system wherein such at least one
filter comprises polypropylene structured and arranged to filter
oils from the at least one such desired material. It also provides
at least one first O-ring adapted to removably couple such at least
one oil-blocking filter to such at least one inlet. And, it provides
at least one second O-ring adapted to provide at least one seal
between such at least one outlet portion and such at least one
sidewall of such at least one reservoir.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a portable purifying system comprising, in
combination: at least one portable reservoir comprising a first
configuration, at least one upper rim portion, at least one open top
portion, and at least one side wall, adapted to collect, through
such at least one open top, at least one mixture comprising a first
ratio of at least one desired material and at least one second ratio
of at least one undesired material; at least one vertical cylinder,
having at least one inlet portion to retrieve from at least one
selected location in such at least one portable reservoir, a higher
ratio of the at least one desired material, and at least one outlet
portion adapted to provide at least one outlet spill outside such at
least one first reservoir; wherein such at least one vertical
cylinder is attached to such at least one reservoir such that such
at least one inlet portion draws from at least one selected location
within such at least one reservoir and such at least one outlet
portion outlets through such at least one side wall outside of such
at least one reservoir; and wherein such first configuration of such
at least one reservoir comprises at least one gravity separator to
use gravity to separate differing densities among the at least one
first ratio of the at least one desired material and the at least
one second ratio of the at least one undesired material.
Further, it provides such a purifying system further comprising at
least one oil-blocking filter removably covering such at least one
inlet. Even further, it provides such a purifying system further
comprising at least one magnetic attractor located within or closely
adjacent such at least one reservoir. Even further, it provides such
a purifying system wherein such at least one magnetic attractor is
located near at least one bottom portion of such at least one
reservoir. Even further, it provides such a purifying system wherein
such at least one reservoir has a fluid capacity of about five
gallons. Even further, it provides such a purifying system wherein
such at least one reservoir comprises one 5-gallon bucket.
Even further, it provides such a purifying system wherein such at
least one vertical cylinder comprises PVC pipe. Even further, it
provides such a purifying system further comprising at least one
washbasin. Even further, it provides such a purifying system further
comprising: at least one support, having at least one
circumferential band and at least three support legs attached to
such at least one circumferential band; wherein such at least one
reservoir is removably supported by such at least one support. Even
further, it provides such a purifying system wherein such at least
three support legs comprise PVC pipe. Even further, it provides such
a purifying system further comprising at least one height adjuster
structured and arranged to adjust the height of such at least one
support.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a portable purifying system comprising, in
combination, the steps of: means for providing a smaller reservoir
within a larger reservoir; means for using re-circulating solvent
from the larger reservoir, washing oily parts in such manner that
oily residue from the washed parts is deposited in the smaller
reservoir; means within the smaller reservoir, for separating
cleaner portions of solvent from dirtier portions of solvent; means
for moving the cleaner portions of solvent into the larger
reservoir; and means for periodically emptying and cleaning the
smaller reservoir. Even further, it provides such a purifying system
wherein the step of separating comprises the step of: means for
using density differences to separate by gravity action cleaner
portions from dirtier portions.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a portable purifying system comprising, in
combination, the steps of: providing a smaller reservoir within a
larger reservoir; using re-circulating solvent from the larger
reservoir, washing oily parts in such manner that oily residue from
the washed parts is deposited in the smaller reservoir; within the
smaller reservoir, separating cleaner portions of solvent from
dirtier portions of solvent; moving the cleaner portions of solvent
into the larger reservoir; and periodically emptying and cleaning
the smaller reservoir. It also provides such a system wherein the
step of separating comprises the step of: using density differences
to separate by gravity action cleaner portions from dirtier
portions.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the portable purifying system
installed in a parts washer according to a preferred embodiment of
the present invention.
FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the portable purifying system of
FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 shows a sectional view through section 3--3 of FIG. 1.
FIG. 4 shows an exploded perspective view of the reservoir of the
portable purifying system of FIG. 2.
FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a magnetic attractor of the
portable purifying system of FIG. 3.
FIG. 6 shows a detail view of detail 6--6 of FIG. 3.
FIG. 7 shows an exploded perspective view of the support stand of
the portable purifying system of FIG. 1.
FIG. 8 shows a sectional view through section 8--8 of FIG. 7.
FIG. 9 shows an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of
the reservoir of FIG. 4.
FIG. 10 shows a section view through an assembled vertical cylinder
of the reservoir of FIG. 9.
FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of the support stand of the
portable purifying system according to another preferred embodiment
of the present invention.
FIG. 12 shows a front view of a first panel of the support stand of
FIG. 11.
FIG. 13 shows a front view of a second panel of the support stand of
FIG. 11.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF BEST MODES AND PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE
INVENTION
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the portable purifying system 100
installed in a parts washer 102 according to a preferred embodiment
of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the
portable purifying system 100 of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a sectional view
through section 3--3 of FIG. 1.
Preferably, the portable purifying system 100 comprises a reservoir
assembly 104 and a support stand 106, as shown. Preferably, the
portable purifying system 100 is utilized within a parts washer 102,
as shown. Such parts washers 102 are preferable for use of the
portable purifying system 100 and commonly comprise a reservoir 108
(at least embodying herein at least one second reservoir structured
and arranged to hold essentially the at least one desired material,
and at least embodying second reservoir means for holding
essentially the at least one desired material) that further
comprises a pump 110 and heating element 112, as shown. Furthermore,
the parts washer 102 preferably comprises a washbasin 114, as shown.
Preferably, the washbasin comprises a wash pan 116, having a drain
118 and a cover 120. Preferably, at least one nozzle assembly 122 is
also provided, as shown. Preferably, the nozzle assembly 122
comprises a flexible conduit 124 having a nozzle end 126 and a
supply conduit 128 attached to the pump 110 to draw cleaning fluid
130 (herein referred to as solvent 130) from within the reservoir
108, as shown.
As described above, the parts washer typically operates as follows:
a part 132 is placed in washbasin 114; the parts washer circulating
pump 110 is started as well as heater 128 (heat is used to increase
the efficiency of the solvent in removing petroleum products such as
grease and oil); the solvent is pumped to nozzle 126 and over and
around part 132 (a brush may also be used at this time to scrub the
part); the now "dirty" solvent 130 gravitates toward the drain 118
and, in prior art, flows into the reservoir 108. In a preferred
embodiment of the present invention, the "dirty" solvent 130
gravitates toward the drain 118 but flows into the portable
purifying system 100, as shown.
Preferably, the reservoir assembly 104 comprises a reservoir 140,
preferably comprising a diameter (width) and depth preferably sized
about equal to a 5-gallon plastic bucket (at least embodying herein
wherein such at least one reservoir comprises one 5-gallon bucket),
preferably rounded, as shown (this arrangement at least embodies
herein first reservoir means, comprising a first configuration, at
least one upper rim portion, at least one open top portion, and at
least one side wall for collecting, through such at least one open
top, at least one mixture comprising a first ratio of at least one
desired material and at least one second ratio of at least one
undesired material; and, it at least embodies herein at least one
first reservoir, comprising a first configuration, at least one
upper rim portion, at least one open top portion, and at least one
side wall, adapted to collect, through such at least one open top,
at least one mixture comprising a first ratio of at least one
desired material and at least one second ratio of at least one
undesired material). Preferably, reservoir 140 is portable such that
it may be lifted by a person without the assistance of another
person (at least embodying herein wherein such first reservoir is
portable; and at least embodying herein wherein such first reservoir
means is portable). Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as economics, user preference, etc., other means for
portability, such as placing wheels along the bottom of the
reservoir, using assistance to transfer the reservoir, etc., may
suffice.
Such 5-gallon buckets are preferably high-density polyethylene
(HDPE) (such as available from US Plastics Corporation
www.usplastic.com 1390 Neubrecht Rd. Lima, Ohio 45801-3196;
1-800-809-4217) and may be hot-filled up to 190.degree. F., steam
sterilized or frozen. Preferably, all pails have a sturdy wire bail
136 with a plastic handgrip 138. Standard bucket measurements are
about eleven and three-quarters inches in diameter at the top
opening by about fourteen and one-eight inches high by about ten and
three-eighths inches in diameter at the closed bottom of the bucket
(this arrangement facilitates bucket stacking for easier storing of
the buckets). The bucket wall thickness typically ranges from about
one-eighth inch to about one-fourth inch. Upon reading the teachings
of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as economics, user preference, etc., other reservoir
arrangements, such as functionally being able to provide a reservoir
for gravity separation of the differing densities of material in the
dirty solvent, etc., may suffice. For example, parts washers range
in size and shape such that the capacity and shape of the reservoir
140 may also be altered without detracting from the intended
function. In light of the teachings herein, those knowledgeable in
such art may determine other such capacities and shapes for the
reservoir 140. For example, a typical parts washer having a 15 35
gallon capacity may preferably use a 5-gallon reservoir (at least
embodying herein wherein such at least one reservoir has a fluid
capacity of about five gallons); however a parts washer having a
smaller or larger capacity might preferably have a respectively
smaller or larger capacity reservoir 140. Furthermore, such
reservoir 140 needs to provide a deep enough reservoir to
accommodate the gravitational separating of the cleaner solvent 130
from the dirty solvent (this arrangement at least embodies herein
wherein such first configuration of such first reservoir means
comprises such gravity means; and at least embodies herein wherein
such first configuration of such at least one first reservoir
comprises such at least one gravity separator). Preferably, the
reservoir 140 comprises one-third to one-seventh of the total volume
of the solvent 130 being used in the parts washer. A "smaller"
reservoir 140 may lead to the portable purifying system 100 having
to be "cleaned" more often. Such cleaning process will be further
detailed below.
Reference is now made to FIG. 4 in addition to continued reference
to the above Figures. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the
reservoir of the portable purifying system of FIG. 2. Preferably,
the reservoir assembly 104 further comprises two vertical cylinders
142, as shown (at least embodying herein retrieving means for
retrieving, from at least one selected location in such at least one
first reservoir means, a higher ratio of the at least one desired
material; and at least embodying herein at least one retriever to
retrieve from at least one selected location in such at least one
first reservoir, a higher ratio of the at least one desired
material). Most preferably, the vertical cylinders 142 are comprised
of plastic, preferably a plastic that will not react with the
solvent, most preferably polyvinyl chloride pipe (herein referred to
as simply PVC pipe, most preferably, schedule 40 or above), as
shown; however, under appropriate circumstances, other materials may
suffice (the above arrangement at least embodies herein wherein such
at least one vertical cylinder comprises PVC pipe). For example, in
light of the teachings herein, those knowledgeable in such materials
art may, under appropriate circumstances choose other materials that
would suffice, such as, for example, high density polyethylene
(herein referred to as HDPE), stainless steel, etc.
Preferably, the vertical cylinders 142 comprise a minimum inner
diameter 143 of about one-inch (outlet portion shown is preferably
one and one-quarter inch inner diameter to accommodate inlet portion
146, as shown). Upon reading the teachings of this specification,
those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as economics,
user preference, material availability, durability, etc., other
inner diameters 143, may suffice. For example, the pipe inner
diameter 143 must provide for a volume of solvent 130 to flow
through the combined diameters of the vertical cylinders 142 at
least equal to, or greater than, the pump 128 flow which is draining
into the reservoir 140 or the reservoir 140 will overflow (such
operation is further explained below). Upon reading the teachings of
this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as economics, user preference, reservoir volume, bleed off
preferences (if desired), etc., other parameters for determining the
inner diameters 143, may suffice.
Preferably, each vertical cylinder 142 comprises an outlet portion
144 (at least embodying herein at least one outlet portion adapted
to provide at least one outlet spill outside such at least one first
reservoir), an inlet portion 146 (at least embodying herein at least
one vertical cylinder, having at least one inlet portion to retrieve
from at least one selected location in such at least one portable
reservoir, a higher ratio of the at least one desired material), a
filter 148 (at least embodying herein wherein such retrieving means
comprises debris separating means for separating debris from the at
least one desired material; and at least embodying herein wherein
such retriever comprises at least one debris separator to separate
debris from the at least one desired material) and a filter retainer
150, as shown. Preferably, the outlet portion 144 comprises a
T-portion 152, preferably a PVC pipe T-fitting having about a
90-degree T-portion 152, as shown. Preferably, each of the above
components (outlet portion 144, inlet portion 146, filter 148 and
filter retainer 150) are then assembled and connected as herein
described/shown.
Preferably, as best illustrated in FIG. 4, the outlet portion 152
inserts into an aperture 154 located along the top portion 156 of
the reservoir 104, preferably about two and one-half inches from the
top edge 158 of the reservoir 140 to the center of the outlet
opening 160 such that the outlet opening 160 spills outside of the
reservoir 140 (at least embodying herein outlet means for providing
an outlet spill outside such first reservoir means; and at least
embodying herein at least one outlet adapted to provide at least one
outlet spill outside such at least one first reservoir), as shown.
The above-described arrangement at least embodies herein wherein
such retrieving means comprises substantially vertical cylinder
means for forming at least one passageway from the at least one
selected location to such outlet means, such outlet means being at
least as high as at least one location adjacent such upper rim
portion of such first reservoir means; and at least embodies herein
wherein such at least one retriever comprises at least one
substantially vertical cylinder to form at least one passageway from
the at least one selected location to such at least one outlet, such
at least one outlet being at least as high as at least one location
adjacent such upper rim portion of such at least one first
reservoir; and also at least embodies herein wherein such at least
one vertical cylinder is attached to such at least one reservoir
such that such at least one inlet portion draws from at least one
selected location within such at least one reservoir and such at
least one outlet portion outlets through such at least one side wall
outside of such at least one reservoir.
Preferably, the outlet portion 152 is comprised of one-and
one-quarter-inch inner-diameter pipe, preferably PVC pipe as
described above, preferably about three and one-half inches in
length, such that the inlet portion 146 will tightly and preferably
"telescopically" fit into the outlet portion 152, as shown. Upon
reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary
skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering such issues as economics, user
preference, material availability, size, etc., other dimensions and
arrangements may suffice. Preferably, the outlet portion 152 is
attached to the reservoir 140, preferably by use of a cable tie 162,
as shown. Preferably the cable tie is made from heat-stabilized
nylon and is weather (ultra-violet) resistant (for example, such as
available from Talco Specialties www.talcospecialties.com).
Preferably, a cable tie 162 is inserted through first aperture 164
and wrapped around the outlet portion 152 then inserted through the
second aperture 166 then pulled tightly and clasped, as shown (see
FIG. 2). Preferably, sealant 168 is then applied between the outlet
opening 160 and the aperture 154. Preferably, the sealant 168 is
allowed to dry, forming a permanent seal such that the aperture 154
is sealed and the outlet portion 152 is held to the reservoir 140
both by the cable tie 162 and sealant 168, as shown. Preferably, the
sealant 168 is silicone, preferably clear (such as made by GE
Silicone www.gesealants.com). Silicone provides a sealant that is
water repellent, chemically inert and stable at extreme
temperatures.
FIG. 9 shows an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of
the reservoir of FIG. 4. FIG. 10 shows a section view through an
assembled vertical cylinder of the reservoir of FIG. 9. In another
preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, an O-ring 230,
preferably having an inner diameter just large enough to fit over
the outlet portion 152 (one and one-quarter inch inner diameter pipe
in the above described preferred embodiment of FIG. 1) and
preferably resistant to the solvent in the reservoir 104 for
example, preferably neoprene. Preferably, the O-ring 230 is used to
seal the outlet opening 160 and the aperture 154, as shown (at least
embodying herein at least one second O-ring adapted to provide at
least one seal between said at least one outlet portion and said at
least one side wall of said at least one reservoir). Upon reading
the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in
the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as economics, user preference, etc., other
sealing arrangements to seal the outlet opening 160 and the aperture
154 may suffice.
Preferably, in the described embodiment, the inlet portion 146
comprises one-inch-inner-diameter pipe, preferably PVC pipe as
described above, preferably about six and one-half inches in length.
Preferably, the inlet portion 146 comprises one flat-cut end 170
perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the inlet portion 146, as
shown. Preferably, the inlet portion 146 comprises one
forty-five-degree cut end 172 that is angled at a forty-five degree
angle to a longitudinal axis of the inlet portion 146, as shown.
Under appropriate circumstances, other arrangements may suffice. In
light of the teachings herein, those knowledgeable in such art may
choose to increase or decrease the cut angles, provided their
function is maintained. Applicant has found the approximate
preferred angles to be well-suited for multiple functions (for
example, ease of solvent flow through the pipe, ease of
assembly-disassembly with other components, increased filter surface
area, lighter oil flow along the filter media and minimal blockage
(as the solvent is circulated).
It is noted that the above-described reservoir 140 at least embodies
herein at least one portable reservoir comprising a first
configuration, at least one upper rim portion, at least one open top
portion, and at least one side wall, adapted to collect, through
such at least one open top, at least one mixture comprising a first
ratio of at least one desired material and at least one second ratio
of at least one undesired material.
Preferably, the flat-cut end 170 will tightly, slidably insert into
the bottom end 174 of the outlet portion 152, as shown. Preferably,
a filter 148 and a filter retainer 150 are connected to the
forty-five-degree cut-end 172, as shown.
Preferably, the filter 148 is an "oil only" polypropylene filter
(such as available from Kleentec; www.Kleetec.com). This arrangement
at least embodies herein at least one filter comprising
polypropylene structured and arranged to filter oils from the at
least one such desired material. This arrangement also at least
embodies herein wherein such filtering means comprises polypropylene
means for filtering oils from at least one such desired material.
Preferably, the filter 148 stops oil and larger particles from
entering the inlet portion 146 (at least embodying herein at least
one oil-blocking filter removably covering such at least one inlet).
Preferably, the filter 148 is placed over the forty-five-degree cut
end 172 and the filter retainer 150 is placed over the filter 148
and then slidably pushed onto and over both the filter and the
forty-five-degree cut end 172 of the inlet portion 146, as shown.
Preferably, the filter retainer 150 comprises one flat-cut end 176
perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the filter retainer 150 and
one forty-five-degree cut-end 178 that is angled at a forty-five
degree angle to a longitudinal axis of the filter retainer 150, as
shown. Preferably, the forty-five-degree cut end 178 is aligned and
matched in shape to the forty-five-degree cut end 172, as shown.
Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as economics,
user preference, viscosity of the solvent, etc., other cut-end 172
and 178 arrangements, such as more or less than forty-five-degrees,
etc., may suffice.
In an alternate preferred embodiment, shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10,
an O-ring 234 is used to hold filter 148 in lieu of filter retainer
150, as shown (at least embodying herein at least one first O-ring
adapted to removably couple said at least one oil-blocking filter to
said at least one inlet). Preferably, the filter 148 is placed over
the forty-five-degree cut end 172 and the filter retainer 150 is
placed over the filter 148 and then slidably pushed onto and over
both the filter and the forty-five-degree cut end 172 of the inlet
portion 146, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as economics, user preference, etc., other filter retaining
arrangements may suffice.
FIG. 6 is a sectional view through detail 6--6 of FIG. 3. FIG. 6
illustrates the above-described assembly of the filter 148 and
filter assembly 150. Preferably, as the solvent 130 passes through
the filter 148 into the inlet portion 146, the oils 180 are trapped
by the filter 148 and as the oils 180 form droplets 182 along the
filter surface 184, they start to gravitate upward towards the top
portion 156 of the reservoir 104, as shown (this arrangement at
least embodies herein wherein such retrieving means comprises
filtering means restricting passage of the at least one such
undesired material; and at least embodies herein wherein such at
least one retriever comprises at least one filter restricting
passage of the at least one such undesired material). Preferably,
the oils 180 are less dense than the solvent 130. In such instances
when the oils 180 are denser than the solvent 130, they preferably
gravitate towards the bottom 186 of the reservoir 104.
Preferably, the reservoir assembly 104 further comprises a magnetic
attractor 190. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a magnetic attractor
190 of the portable purifying system 100 of FIG. 3. Preferably, the
magnetic attractor 190 (at least embodying herein at least one
magnetic attractor located within or closely adjacent such at least
one reservoir) comprises a magnet 192, preferably a rare-earth
magnet, preferably about three-quarters to one-inch in diameter and
preferably about one-inch or larger in length. Preferably, the
magnetic attractor 190 is placed within a sealable container 194,
preferably plastic, preferably only slightly larger than the magnet
192, as shown. Preferably, the magnetic attractor 190 comprises a
hanger assembly 196 such that the magnetic attractor 190 may be
suspended in the reservoir 104, as shown. Most preferably the
magnetic attractor 190 is suspended within the solvent 130 about two
to about four inches above the bottom 186, as shown (at least
embodying herein wherein such at least one magnetic attractor is
located near at least one bottom portion of such at least one
reservoir). Preferably, the hanger assembly 196 is suspended by
cable 198, preferably suspended from vertical cylinders 142, as
shown. Cable 198 is preferably metal; however, plastic or other
material that will not react with the solvent may suffice.
It is noted that, in light of the teachings herein, those
knowledgeable in such art may determine that, under appropriate
circumstances with regard to reservoir 140 sizes and expected
metallic content of the solvent 130, other sizes, containers,
placement and types of magnets may suffice.
Preferably, the magnetic attractor 190 attracts metals that are
washed into reservoir 140 and magnetically draws them towards the
bottom 199 of the reservoir 140 or towards the magnet 192.
Preferably, the parts congregate around the sealable container 194.
Preferably, a user may clean the container by simply lifting it out
of the reservoir 140, removing the magnet 192 and wiping off the now
de-magnetized container 194, as shown. Preferably, a non-magnetic
material, such as plastic, is used for the container 194 such that
this cleaning process is easy. Applicant has determined that
utilizing a magnet 192 without the container 194 causes cleaning of
the metals from the magnet 192 to be quite time-consuming and messy.
Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as economics,
user preferences, material availability, etc., other types of
magnets and magnet arrangements, etc., such as magnetic materials,
electro-magnets, etc., may suffice.
Reference is now made to FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 with continued reference
to the above-described Figures. FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective
view of the support stand 200 of the portable purifying system 100
of FIG. 1. FIG. 8 is a sectional view through section 8--8 of FIG.
7. Preferably, the reservoir assembly 104 is elevated above the
bottom 186 of the parts washer reservoir 108, as shown (at least
embodying herein wherein such at least one first reservoir is
removably situate within such at least one second reservoir; and at
least embodying herein wherein such first reservoir means is
removably situate within such second reservoir means; and at least
embodying herein at least one support means for supporting such
first reservoir means within such second reservoir means).
Preferably, a support stand 106 is utilized for elevating the
reservoir assembly 104 (this arrangement at least embodying herein
at least one support adapted to support such at least one first
reservoir within such at least one second reservoir). Preferably,
the reservoir assembly 104 is removable from the support stand 200
to facilitate cleaning of the reservoir assembly 104 and its
components, such as filters 148 (cleaning or replacement), magnetic
attractor 190, and cleaning and replacement of the solvent in the
reservoir 140. This arrangement at least embodies herein wherein
such at least one reservoir is removably supported by such at least
one support.
Preferably, the support stand 106 comprises an annular band 202
having a diameter of about eleven to eleven and one-half inches to
fit a 5-gallon bucket as described above (at least embodying herein
at least one support, having at least one circumferential band and
at least three support legs attached to such at least one
circumferential band), as shown. Such 5-gallon buckets are
preferably tapered and stackable, as shown. The present embodiment
takes advantage of the taper in utilizing the reservoir support
stand 106, as shown. Preferably, the annular band 202 is metallic,
preferably galvanized steel. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as economics, user preference, shipping weight, etc., other
materials, such as plastic, etc., may suffice. Preferably, the
support stand 106 also comprises a leg support 204, preferably three
legs 206, preferably adjustable in height, as shown. Preferably,
each leg 206 is attached to the annular band 202 with a rivet 208,
as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those
with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as economics,
user preference, materials, etc., other attachment arrangements, may
suffice.
Preferably, each leg 206 comprises an upper attachment 210, a center
section 212 and an optional adjustment portion 214, as shown.
Preferably, the center section 212 is made from one-inch-diameter
PVC pipe (at least embodying herein wherein such at least three
support legs comprise PVC pipe). Preferably, the upper attachment
210 is a one-inch PVC connector, having a one-inch inner diameter.
Preferably, the optional adjustment portion 214 is one and
one-quarter inch PVC pipe having a one-inch inner diameter.
Preferably, the upper attachment 210, a center section 212 and an
optional adjustment portion 214 slidably fit into each other, as
shown. The upper attachment 210 and center section 212 may be glued
together, if desired, under appropriate circumstances. When an
adjustment portion 214 is used, the center section 212 is preferably
drilled to provide a plurality of apertures 216 for use in adjusting
the height of the legs 206, as shown (at least embodying herein at
least one height adjuster structured and arranged to adjust the
height of such at least one support). Preferably, a bolt and nut
assembly 218 is placed through an aperture 216 and through an
aperture 220 in leg 206 and connected to hold the leg in a desired
position, as shown. In light of the teachings herein, those
knowledgeable in such art may determine that, under appropriate
circumstances, with regard to the support of the reservoir assembly
104, other arrangements may suffice.
FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of the support stand of the
portable purifying system according to another preferred embodiment
of the present invention. FIG. 12 shows a front view of a first
panel of the support stand of FIG. 11. FIG. 13 shows a front view of
a second panel of the support stand of FIG. 11. In another preferred
embodiment of the support stand 106, support stand 240 is a
knockdown, non-adjustable support for reservoir 104, as shown.
Preferably, support stand 240 comprises a first panel 242 and a
second panel 244, as shown. Preferably, both the first panel 242 and
second panel 244 comprise rectangular-shaped perimeter 248,
preferably about fourteen inches wide by about twenty inches in
height, having a substantially U-shaped cutout 250, as shown.
Preferably, the U-shaped cutout 250 is about eleven inches in depth
and about eleven and one-half inches in width to accommodate a
5-gallon bucket, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as economics, user preference, reservoir size, etc., other
dimensions for the U-shaped cutout 250 may suffice. Preferably, both
the first panel 242 and second panel 244 comprise a chemically
resistant material such as, for example, polyacrylate (for example,
Lucite.RTM.), preferably about three-eighths inch in thickness. Upon
reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary
skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering such issues as economics, user
preference, material availability, durability, machining costs,
etc., other materials, such as HDPE, PVC, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, the first panel 242 and second panel 244 comprise
coupling slots 252 and 254 to provide a means for coupling the
preferably flat panels together, as shown. Preferably, slot 252 is
situate about the center 256 of the bottom portion 258 of the first
panel 242, as shown. Preferably, the slot 252 is slightly wider than
the width of the material of the second panel 244. Preferably, slot
254 is situate about the center 260 of the top portion 262 of the
second panel 244, as shown. Preferably, the slot 254 is slightly
wider than the width of the material of the first panel 242.
Preferably, each slot 242 and 244 are about one half the distance of
the base portion 266, preferably about four and one-half inches in
length, such that when the first panel 242 is placed over the second
panel 244 in a perpendicular arrangement, as shown, the slot 252
slides through the slot 254 and each respective slot 252 and 254
tightly fits to the respective remaining base portion 266, as shown.
In such manner, the first panel 242 and second panel 244 complete a
support stand 240 having a substantially flat standing bottom and
structured and arranged to hold a 5-gallon reservoir 104, as shown.
Preferably, an identifying plate 270 is permanently attached to each
reservoir 104, preferably along the top portion, as shown.
Preferably, the identifying plate 270 comprises a number or bar code
to track the individual reservoir for usage and performance. In
addition, the identifying plate 270 may comprises patent number or
patent pending indicia.
Reference is now made to all of the above Figures with particular
reference to FIG. 3 to illustrate a preferred operation of the
portable purifying system 100. Preferably, the reservoir 140 is
placed into the reservoir 108, as shown (at least embodying herein
means for providing a smaller reservoir within a larger reservoir).
Preferably, the reservoir support stand 106 is adjusted in height
such that the reservoir assembly 104 will be under the drain 118
with about two to about six inches of clearance between the top edge
158 of the reservoir 140 and the bottom 222 of the drain 118, as
shown. Under appropriate circumstances, other clearance arrangements
may suffice. For example, the reservoir may also be removably
attached to the washbasin (at least embodying herein wherein such
first reservoir means is removably attached to at least one wash
basin). Most preferably, the outlet openings 160 are higher than the
level of solvent 130 in the reservoir 108 of the parts washer 102,
as shown. Preferably, the reservoir 140 is next placed into the
reservoir support stand 106, as shown. Preferably, the parts washer
102 is already filled with solvent, preferably to a height as
recommended by the parts washer manufacturer, however less than a
height that would hinder the portable purifying system 100 from
being effective (meaning the height of the solvent in the reservoir
108 must preferably be lower than the outlet openings 160 as
described above).
Preferably, the parts washer pump 110 is activated and the solvent
130 begins to re-circulate. Preferably, a part 132 is placed in wash
basin 114 (at least embodying herein at least one wash basin) and
the nozzle end 126 is directed towards the part 132, as shown.
Preferably, as the solvent 130 washes over the part 132, a mixture
230 comprising the solvent 130 (a desired portion of the mixture),
oily residue 224, metals 226, sludge 228 and other loose debris
(together comprising an undesired portion of the mixture) are washed
down the drain 118 and into the reservoir 140 of the portable
purifying system 100, as shown (at least embodying herein means for
using re-circulating solvent from the larger reservoir, washing oily
parts in such manner that oily residue from the washed parts is
deposited in the smaller reservoir). Preferably, as the solution 230
enters the reservoir 140, the differing densities and materials of
the solution 230 separate, as shown. This arrangement at least
embodies herein wherein such first configuration of such at least
one reservoir comprises at least one gravity separator to use
gravity to separate differing densities among the at least one first
ratio of the at least one desired material and the at least one
second ratio of the at least one undesired material. This
arrangement also at least embodies herein means for using density
differences to separate by gravity action cleaner portions from
dirtier portions.
Preferably, the heavier metals 226, including magnetic and
non-magnetic metals, move towards the bottom 199 of the reservoir
140, preferably by gravity means, which naturally separate the
materials (the above described arrangement at least embodies herein
gravity means for using gravity to separate differing densities
among the at least one first ratio of the at least one desired
material and the at least one second ratio of the at least one
undesired material; and at least embodies herein at least one
gravity separator to use gravity to separate differing densities
among the at least one first ratio of the at least one desired
material and the at least one second ratio of the at least one
undesired material), as well as through the use of the magnetic
attractor 190. Preferably, the magnetic attractor 190 assists in
attracting such magnetic material towards the bottom 199 and towards
the magnetic attractor 190, as shown. Preferably, the heavier sludge
228 also moves toward the bottom 199, as shown.
The oily residue 224 moves toward the top portion 156 such that the
oily residue is suspended above the majority of the solvent 130, as
shown (the above arrangement at least embodies herein means within
the smaller reservoir, for separating cleaner portions of solvent
from dirtier portions of solvent). Preferably, the majority of the
solvent 130 resides in the middle portion 232 of the reservoir 140.
Under appropriate circumstances, other arrangements may suffice. For
example, if a lighter or denser solvent is used the majority of the
solvent (or other desired material) might reside in other portions.
Preferably, vertical cylinders 142 are placed in about the middle of
the cleanest portions of the solvent 130, as shown. Preferably, the
cleaner solvent 130 is further filtered by the filter 148 as the
solvent 130 moves upward through the vertical cylinders 142 (such
movement of the fluid in the reservoir and upward through the
vertical cylinders, as the fluid level in the reservoir rises,
occurring by well-known fluid-flow dynamics which will not be
further detailed herein) and outward through the outlet opening 160,
as shown (at least embodying herein means for moving the cleaner
portions of solvent into the larger reservoir).
Preferably, at regular intervals (based on usage) the reservoir 140
is periodically emptied of all contents and cleaned (at least
embodying herein means for periodically emptying and cleaning the
smaller reservoir). Preferably, the filters 148 are cleaned as they
get soiled and the magnetic attractor 190 is cleaned as metals 226
surround it. Preferably, the amount of solvent 130 added to the
portable purifying system 100 is only about as much as is removed
during such cleaning.
It is noted that the above-described steps at least embody herein a
portable purifying system comprising, in combination, the steps of:
providing a smaller reservoir within a larger reservoir; using
re-circulating solvent from the larger reservoir, washing oily parts
in such manner that oily residue from the washed parts is deposited
in the smaller reservoir; within the smaller reservoir, separating
cleaner portions of solvent from dirtier portions of solvent; moving
the cleaner portions of solvent into the larger reservoir; and
periodically emptying and cleaning the smaller reservoir; and using
density differences to separate by gravity action cleaner portions
from dirtier portions.
Although applicant has described applicant's preferred embodiments
of this invention, it will be understood that the broadest scope of
this invention includes such modifications as diverse shapes and
sizes and materials. Such scope is limited only by the below claims
as read in connection with the above specification. Further, many
other advantages of applicant's invention will be apparent to those
skilled in the art from the above descriptions and the below claims.
* * * * *
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