US5207896A — Wastewater treatment mechanism

Claim 1

Independent Claim 136 words

A mechanism for wastewater treatment comprising means for defining a chamber in which wastewater is treated during the passage thereof through said chamber, said chamber including filter means through which wastewater passes for separating larger and smaller solids between first upstream and second downstream side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones on opposite sides of said filter means, means within said chamber downstream of said second downstream settling zone for flow equalizing wastewater flow through said first and second side-by-side settling zones generally in variable response to upstream variable levels of the wastewater in at least one of said first and second side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones, inlet means upstream of said first settling zone for introducing wastewater into said chamber, and outlet means downstream of said flow equalizing means for discharging wastewater from said chamber.

Claim 2

Dependent Claim 136 words

A mechanism for wastewater treatment comprising means for defining a chamber in which wastewater is treated during the passage thereof through said chamber, said chamber including filter means through which wastewater passes for separating larger and smaller solids between first upstream and second downstream side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones on opposite sides of said filter means, means within said chamber downstream of said second downstream settling zone for flow equalizing wastewater flow through said first and second side-by-side settling zones generally in variable response to upstream variable levels of the wastewater in at least one of said first and second side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones, inlet means upstream of said first settling zone for introducing wastewater into said chamber, and outlet means downstream of said flow equalizing means for discharging wastewater from said chamber.

Claim 3

Dependent Claim 23 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 wherein said controlling means is an opening in fluid communication with said second downstream settling zone.

Claim 4

Dependent Claim 34 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 wherein said second downstream settling zone is defined by said filter means and a wall downstream thereof, and said controlling means is an opening in said wall.

Claim 5

Dependent Claim 57 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 wherein said second downstream settling zone is defined by said filter means and a first wall downstream thereof, a second wall downstream of said first wall and defining therewith a third downstream settling zone, and said controlling means is in fluid communication with said second and third downstream settling zones.

Claim 6

Dependent Claim 52 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 wherein said second downstream settling zone is defined by said filter means and a first wall downstream thereof, a second wall downstream of said first wall and defining therewith a third downstream settling zone, and said controlling means is an opening in said second wall.

Claim 7

Dependent Claim 40 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 wherein said controlling means is constructed and arranged to control waste water flow in response to the hydraulic head of the wastewater in at least one of said first and second settling zones.

Claim 8

Dependent Claim 40 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 wherein said controlling means is constructed and arranged to control wastewater flow proportionally in response to the hydraulic head of the wastewater in at least one of said first and second settling zones.

Claim 9

Dependent Claim 58 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 including means downstream of said controlling means for substantially all terminating bacteriological growth within the wastewater, and means for isolating the downstream side of said bacteriological growth terminating means from the upstream side thereof to thereby prevent hydraulic return flow of the bacteriological growth terminated wastewater to said second settling zone.

Claim 10

Dependent Claim 62 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 including means downstream of said controlling means for substantially all terminating bacteriological growth within the wastewater, and means for isolating the downstream side of said bacteriological growth terminating means from the upstream side thereof to thereby generally prevent hydraulic return flow of the bacteriological growth terminated wastewater to said second settling zone except by transmigration.

Claim 11

Dependent Claim 39 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 wherein said controlling means is constructed and arranged to control wastewater flow at at least two distinct levels of the wastewater in at least one of said first and second settling zones.

Claim 12

Dependent Claim 53 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 wherein said controlling means is constructed and arranged to control wastewater flow at at least two distinct levels of the wastewater in at least one of said first and second settling zones and said two distinct levels are defined by a pair of elevationally spaced openings.

Claim 13

Dependent Claim 54 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 wherein said controlling means is constructed and arranged to control wastewater flow at at least two distinct levels of the wastewater in at least one of said first and second settling zones and said two distinct levels are defined by a pair of generally vertically spaced openings.

Claim 14

Dependent Claim 65 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 wherein said controlling means is constructed and arranged to control wastewater flow at at least two distinct levels of the wastewater in at least one of said first and second settling zones and said two distinct levels are defined by a pair of elevationally spaced openings in a wall defining a downstream side of said second settling zone.

Claim 15

Dependent Claim 66 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 wherein said controlling means is constructed and arranged to control wastewater flow at at least two distinct levels of the wastewater in at least one of said first and second settling zones and said two distinct levels are defined by a pair of generally vertically spaced openings in a wall defining a downstream side of said second settling zone.

Claim 16

Dependent Claim 59 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 wherein said controlling means is constructed and arranged to control wastewater flow at at least two distinct levels of the wastewater in at least one of said first and second settling zones and said two distinct levels are defined by a pair of elevationally spaced openings, and said openings are different sizes.

Claim 17

Dependent Claim 73 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 wherein said controlling means is constructed and arranged to control wastewater flow at at least two distinct levels of the wastewater in at least one of said first and second settling zones and said two distinct levels are defined by a pair of elevationally spaced openings, said openings are different sizes, and a larger of said openings is disposed elevationally above a smaller of said openings.

Claim 18

Dependent Claim 43 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 including means for defining a third settling zone downstream of said controlling means, and said controlling means is constructed and arranged to control the wastewater flow from said second settling zone to said third settling zone.

Claim 19

Dependent Claim 71 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 including means for defining a third settling zone downstream of said controlling means, said controlling means is constructed and arranged to control the wastewater flow from said second settling zone to said third settling zone, and said controlling means is effective for separating the wastewater flow into at least two flow paths during passage from said second settling zone into said third settling zone.

Claim 20

Dependent Claim 73 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 including means for defining a third settling zone downstream of said controlling means, said controlling means is constructed and arranged to control the wastewater flow from said second settling zone to said third settling zone, and said controlling means is effective for separating the wastewater flow into at least two elevationally offset flow paths during passage from said second settling zone into said third settling zone.

Claim 21

Dependent Claim 74 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 including means for defining a third settling zone downstream of said controlling means, said controlling means is constructed and arranged to control the wastewater flow from said second settling zone to said third settling zone, and said controlling means is effective for separating the wastewater flow into at least two generally horizontally disposed flow paths during passage from said second settling zone into said third settling zone.

Claim 22

Dependent Claim 74 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 including means for defining a third settling zone downstream of said controlling means, said controlling means is constructed and arranged to control the wastewater flow from said second settling zone to said third settling zone, and said controlling means is effective for separating the wastewater flow into at least two generally vertically offset flow paths during passage from said second settling zone into said third settling zone.

Claim 23

Dependent Claim 77 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 including means for defining a third settling zone downstream of said controlling means, said controlling means is constructed and arranged to control the wastewater flow from said second settling zone to said third settling zone, and said controlling means is effective for separating the wastewater flow into at least two elevationally offset and similarly horizontally disposed flow paths during passage from said second settling zone into said third settling zone.

Claim 24

Dependent Claim 33 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 including means defining a third settling zone downstream of said controlling means, and means for effecting flow of wastewater generally horizontally through said third settling zone.

Claim 25

Dependent Claim 75 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 including means defining a third settling zone downstream of said controlling means, and means for effecting flow of wastewater generally horizontally through said third settling zone, means defining a fourth settling zone downstream of said third settling zone, and at least one of said first and second settling zones and said fourth settling zone being constructed and arranged to settle solids by vertical downward migration through the wastewater.

Claim 26

Dependent Claim 19 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 including means for defining a clarification chamber upstream of said first-mentioned chamber.

Claim 27

Dependent Claim 31 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 including means for defining a clarification chamber upstream of said first-mentioned chamber, and means for defining an aeration chamber upstream of said clarification chamber.

Claim 28

Dependent Claim 42 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 including means for defining a clarification chamber upstream of said first-mentioned chamber, means for defining an aeration chamber upstream of said clarification chamber, and means for defining a pretreatment chamber upstream of said aeration chamber.

Claim 29

Dependent Claim 26 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 including chlorination means downstream from said controlling means for chlorinating the wastewater as it flows in a downstream direction.

Claim 30

Dependent Claim 49 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 including chlorination means and dechlorination means respectively downstream from said controlling means for respectively chlorinating and dechlorinating the wastewater as it flows in a downstream direction, and said dechlorination means being operative incident to the discharge of the wastewater from said chamber.

Claim 31

Dependent Claim 33 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 wherein first and second wall means of the respective first and second settling chambers at least in part define the respective first and second filter means.

Claim 32

Dependent Claim 15 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 wherein said filter means is generally vertically disposed.

Claim 33

Dependent Claim 22 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 31 wherein said filter means and settling zones are in generally concentric relationship to each other.

Claim 34

Dependent Claim 26 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 wherein said wastewater flow controlling means effects variable control of wastewater flow through said first and second settling zones.

Claim 35

Dependent Claim 22 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 33 wherein said filter means and settling zones are in generally concentric relationship to each other.

Claim 36

Dependent Claim 60 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 33 wherein said filter means is generally vertically disposed in spaced relationship and in part defining said first and second side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones, and said filter means and first and second settling zones being constructed and arranged to effect generally vertical flow of wastewater within said first and second settling zones.

Claim 37

Dependent Claim 22 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 35 wherein said filter means and settling zones are in generally concentric relationship to each other.

Claim 38

Dependent Claim 60 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 wherein said filter means is generally vertically disposed in spaced relationship and in part defining said first and second side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones, and said filter means and first and second settling zones being constructed and arranged to effect generally vertical flow of wastewater within said first and second settling zones.

Claim 39

Dependent Claim 22 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 37 wherein said filter means and settling zones are in generally concentric relationship to each other.

Claim 40

Dependent Claim 22 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 wherein said filter means and settling zones are in generally concentric relationship to each other.

Claim 41

Dependent Claim 24 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 wherein said filter means and first and second settling zones are each of a generally annular configuration.

Claim 42

Dependent Claim 35 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 40 including a third generally horizontally disposed settling zone downstream of and generally surrounded by said second settling zone for gravity settling solids during generally horizontal wastewater flow therealong.

Claim 43

Dependent Claim 42 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 wherein said filter means and first and second settling zones are each of a generally annular configuration, and said filter means and first and second settling zones are generally in concentric relationship to each other.

Claim 44

Dependent Claim 35 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 42 including a third generally horizontally disposed settling zone downstream of and generally surrounded by said second settling zone for gravity settling solids during generally horizontal wastewater flow therealong.

Claim 45

Dependent Claim 42 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 1 wherein said filter means and first and second settling zones are each of a generally annular configuration, and said filter means and first and second settling zones are generally in nested relationship to each other.

Claim 46

Dependent Claim 35 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 44 including a third generally horizontally disposed settling zone downstream of and generally surrounded by said second settling zone for gravity settling solids during generally horizontal wastewater flow therealong.

Claim 47

Dependent Claim 126 words

A mechanism for wastewater treatment comprising means for defining a chamber in which wastewater is treated during the passage thereof through said chamber, inlet means for introducing wastewater into said chamber, first filter means in said chamber through which wastewater passes for separating larger and smaller solids and effecting gravity settling thereof in respective first upstream and second downstream side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones on opposite sides of said first filter means, second filter means through which wastewater passes upstream of said first filter means for preventing the entry of larger than the large solids into said first upstream zone, means downstream of said second settling zone for terminating substantially all bacteriological growth within the wastewater, and outlet means for discharging wastewater from said chamber.

Claim 48

Dependent Claim 126 words

A mechanism for wastewater treatment comprising means for defining a chamber in which wastewater is treated during the passage thereof through said chamber, inlet means for introducing wastewater into said chamber, first filter means in said chamber through which wastewater passes for separating larger and smaller solids and effecting gravity settling thereof in respective first upstream and second downstream side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones on opposite sides of said first filter means, second filter means through which wastewater passes upstream of said first filter means for preventing the entry of larger than the large solids into said first upstream zone, means downstream of said second settling zone for terminating substantially all bacteriological growth within the wastewater, and outlet means for discharging wastewater from said chamber.

Claim 49

Dependent Claim 31 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 46 including means for defining a generally inclined flow path for wastewater past said bacteriological growth terminating means to thereby effect flow controlled operation thereof.

Claim 50

Dependent Claim 54 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 46 wherein said bacteriological growth terminating means includes a tube for feeding chlorine in a generally downward direction and means for defining a generally inclined flow path for wastewater traversing the downward direction of chlorine feed to thereby effect flow controlled dosage of the chlorine to the wastewater.

Claim 51

Dependent Claim 57 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 46 wherein said bacteriological growth terminating means includes a tube for feeding chlorine tablets in a generally downward direction, and means for defining a generally inclined flow path for wastewater traversing the downward direction of chlorine tablets feed to thereby effect flow controlled dosage of the chlorine tablets to the wastewater.

Claim 52

Dependent Claim 78 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 46 wherein said bacteriological growth terminating means includes a tube for feeding chlorine tablets in a generally downward direction, means for defining a generally inclined flow path for wastewater traversing the downward direction of chlorine feed to thereby effect flow controlled dosage of the chlorine tablets to the wastewater, and said inclined flow path means being effective to subject only a lowermost of the chlorine tablets in said tube to wastewater flow.

Claim 53

Dependent Claim 45 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 46 including means downstream of said bacteriological growth terminating means defining a third settling zone for solids, said bacteriological growth terminating means delivers chlorine to said wastewater, and means downstream of said third settling zone for dechlorinating the wastewater.

Claim 54

Dependent Claim 49 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 46 wherein said bacteriological growth terminating means includes means for feeding tablets of chlorine/binder admixture into the wastewater, and means downstream of said feeding means for defining a third settling zone in which binder of the tablets will settle out of the wastewater.

Claim 55

Dependent Claim 61 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 46 wherein said bacteriological growth terminating means includes means for feeding tablets of chlorine/binder admixture into the wastewater, and means downstream of said feeding means for defining a third settling zone in which binder of the tablets will settle out of the wastewater, and means downstream of said third settling zone for dechlorinating the wastewater.

Claim 56

Dependent Claim 28 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 46 wherein said first and second filter means and said first and second settling zones are each of a generally annular configuration.

Claim 57

Dependent Claim 35 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 54 including a third generally horizontally disposed settling zone downstream of and generally surrounded by said second settling zone for gravity settling solids during generally horizontal wastewater flow therealong.

Claim 58

Dependent Claim 50 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 46 wherein said first and second filter means and said first and second settling zones are each of a generally annular configuration, and said first and second filtering means and said first and second settling zones are generally in concentric relationship to each other.

Claim 59

Dependent Claim 35 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 56 including a third generally horizontally disposed settling zone downstream of and generally surrounded by said second settling zone for gravity settling solids during generally horizontal wastewater flow therealong.

Claim 60

Dependent Claim 50 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 46 wherein said first and second filter means and said first and second settling zones are each of a generally annular configuration, and said first and second filtering means and said first and second settling zones are generally in nested relationship to each other.

Claim 61

Dependent Claim 35 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 58 including a third generally horizontally disposed settling zone downstream of and generally surrounded by said second settling zone for gravity settling solids during generally horizontal wastewater flow therealong.

Claim 62

Dependent Claim 160 words

A mechanism for wastewater treatment comprising means for defining a chamber in which wastewater is treated during the passage thereof through said chamber, inlet means for introducing wastewater into said chamber, first filter means in said chamber through which wastewater passes for separating larger and smaller solids and effecting gravity settling thereof in respective first upstream and second downstream side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones on opposite sides of said first filter means, second filter means through which wastewater passes upstream of said first filter means for preventing the entry of larger than the large solids into said first upstream zone, means downstream of said second settling zone for terminating substantially all bacteriological growth within the wastewater, means for isolating the downstream side of said bacteriological growth terminating means from the upstream side thereof to thereby prevent hydraulic return flow of the bacteriological growth terminated wastewater to said second settling zone, and outlet means for discharging wastewater from said chamber.

Claim 63

Dependent Claim 160 words

A mechanism for wastewater treatment comprising means for defining a chamber in which wastewater is treated during the passage thereof through said chamber, inlet means for introducing wastewater into said chamber, first filter means in said chamber through which wastewater passes for separating larger and smaller solids and effecting gravity settling thereof in respective first upstream and second downstream side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones on opposite sides of said first filter means, second filter means through which wastewater passes upstream of said first filter means for preventing the entry of larger than the large solids into said first upstream zone, means downstream of said second settling zone for terminating substantially all bacteriological growth within the wastewater, means for isolating the downstream side of said bacteriological growth terminating means from the upstream side thereof to thereby prevent hydraulic return flow of the bacteriological growth terminated wastewater to said second settling zone, and outlet means for discharging wastewater from said chamber.

Claim 64

Dependent Claim 28 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 60 wherein said first and second filter means and said first and second settling zones are each of a generally annular configuration.

Claim 65

Dependent Claim 35 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 61 including a third generally horizontally disposed settling zone downstream of and generally surrounded by said second settling zone for gravity settling solids during generally horizontal wastewater flow therealong.

Claim 66

Dependent Claim 50 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 60 wherein said first and second filter means and said first and second settling zones are each of a generally annular configuration, and said first and second filtering means and said first and second settling zones are generally in concentric relationship to each other.

Claim 67

Dependent Claim 35 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 63 including a third generally horizontally disposed settling zone downstream or and generally surrounded by said second settling zone for gravity settling solids during generally horizontal wastewater flow therealong.

Claim 68

Dependent Claim 50 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 60 wherein said first and second filter means and said first and second settling zones are each of a generally annular configuration, and said first and second filtering means and said first and second settling zones are generally in nested relationship to each other.

Claim 69

Dependent Claim 35 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 65 including a third generally horizontally disposed settling zone downstream of and generally surrounded by said second settling zone for gravity settling solids during generally horizontal wastewater flow therealong.

Claim 70

Dependent Claim 163 words

A mechanism for wastewater treatment comprising means for defining a chamber in which wastewater is treated during the passage thereof through said chamber, inlet means for introducing wastewater into said chamber, first filter means in said chamber through which wastewater passes for separating larger and smaller solids and effecting gravity settling thereof in respective first upstream and second downstream side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones on opposite sides of said first filter means, second filter means through which wastewater passes upstream of said first filter means for preventing the entry of larger than the large solids into said first upstream zone, means downstream of said second settling zone for generally terminating bacteriological growth within the wastewater, means for isolating the downstream side of said bacteriological growth terminating means from the upstream side thereof to thereby generally prevent hydraulic return flow of the bacteriological growth terminated wastewater to said second settling zone except by transmigration, and outlet means for discharging wastewater from said chamber.

Claim 71

Dependent Claim 163 words

A mechanism for wastewater treatment comprising means for defining a chamber in which wastewater is treated during the passage thereof through said chamber, inlet means for introducing wastewater into said chamber, first filter means in said chamber through which wastewater passes for separating larger and smaller solids and effecting gravity settling thereof in respective first upstream and second downstream side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones on opposite sides of said first filter means, second filter means through which wastewater passes upstream of said first filter means for preventing the entry of larger than the large solids into said first upstream zone, means downstream of said second settling zone for generally terminating bacteriological growth within the wastewater, means for isolating the downstream side of said bacteriological growth terminating means from the upstream side thereof to thereby generally prevent hydraulic return flow of the bacteriological growth terminated wastewater to said second settling zone except by transmigration, and outlet means for discharging wastewater from said chamber.

Claim 72

Dependent Claim 28 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 67 wherein said first and second filter means and said first and second settling zones are each of a generally annular configuration.

Claim 73

Dependent Claim 35 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 68 including a third generally horizontally disposed settling zone downstream of and generally surrounded by said second settling zone for gravity settling solids during generally horizontal wastewater flow therealong.

Claim 74

Dependent Claim 50 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 67 wherein said first and second filter means and said first and second settling zones are each of a generally annular configuration, and said first and second filtering means and said first and second settling zones are generally in concentric relationship to each other.

Claim 75

Dependent Claim 35 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 70 including a third generally horizontally disposed settling zone downstream of and generally surrounded by said second settling zone for gravity settling solids during generally horizontal wastewater flow therealong.

Claim 76

Dependent Claim 50 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 67 wherein said first and second filter means and said first and second settling zones are each of a generally annular configuration, and said first and second filtering means and said first and second settling zone are generally in nested relationship to each other.

Claim 77

Dependent Claim 35 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 72 including a third generally horizontally disposed settling zone downstream of and generally surrounded by said second settling zone for gravity settling solids during generally horizontal wastewater flow therealong.

Claim 78

Dependent Claim 239 words

A mechanism for wastewater treatment comprising means for defining a chamber in which wastewater is treated during the passage thereof through said chamber, inlet means for introducing wastewater into said chamber, means for defining first upstream and second downstream side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones, first filter means in said chamber through which wastewater passes between said first upstream and second downstream side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones for separating larger and smaller solids and effecting gravity settling thereof in said respective first upstream and second down stream settling zones, second filter means through which wastewater passes upstream of said first filter means for preventing the entry of larger than the large solids into said first upstream zone, means downstream of said second settling zone for defining a third downstream settling zone for effecting further settling of the wastewater solids, means down stream of said third settling zone for defining a fourth down stream settling zone for effecting further settling of the waste water solids, means downstream of said fourth settling zone for defining a fifth downstream settling zone for effecting further settling of wastewater solids, means downstream of said fifth settling zone for defining a sixth downstream settling zone for effecting further settling of wastewater solids, means down stream of said sixth settling zone for defining a seventh down stream settling zone for effecting further settling of wastewater solids, and outlet means for discharging wastewater from said chamber.

Claim 79

Dependent Claim 239 words

A mechanism for wastewater treatment comprising means for defining a chamber in which wastewater is treated during the passage thereof through said chamber, inlet means for introducing wastewater into said chamber, means for defining first upstream and second downstream side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones, first filter means in said chamber through which wastewater passes between said first upstream and second downstream side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones for separating larger and smaller solids and effecting gravity settling thereof in said respective first upstream and second down stream settling zones, second filter means through which wastewater passes upstream of said first filter means for preventing the entry of larger than the large solids into said first upstream zone, means downstream of said second settling zone for defining a third downstream settling zone for effecting further settling of the wastewater solids, means down stream of said third settling zone for defining a fourth down stream settling zone for effecting further settling of the waste water solids, means downstream of said fourth settling zone for defining a fifth downstream settling zone for effecting further settling of wastewater solids, means downstream of said fifth settling zone for defining a sixth downstream settling zone for effecting further settling of wastewater solids, means down stream of said sixth settling zone for defining a seventh down stream settling zone for effecting further settling of wastewater solids, and outlet means for discharging wastewater from said chamber.

Claim 80

Dependent Claim 182 words

A mechanism for wastewater treatment comprising means for defining a chamber in which wastewater is treated during the passage thereof through said chamber, inlet means for introducing wastewater into said chamber, means for defining first upstream and second downstream side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones, first filter means in said chamber through which wastewater passes between said first upstream and second downstream side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zone for separating larger and smaller solids and effecting gravity settling thereof in said respective first upstream and second down stream settling zones, second filter means through which wastewater passes upstream of said first filter means for preventing the entry of larger than the large solids into said first upstream zone, means downstream of said second settling zone for defining a third downstream settling zone for effecting further settling of the wastewater solids, means for effecting generally vertical wastewater flow in any one of said first through third settling zone, means for effecting generally horizontal wastewater flow in another of said first through third settling means, and outlet means for discharging wastewater from said chamber.

Claim 81

Dependent Claim 182 words

A mechanism for wastewater treatment comprising means for defining a chamber in which wastewater is treated during the passage thereof through said chamber, inlet means for introducing wastewater into said chamber, means for defining first upstream and second downstream side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones, first filter means in said chamber through which wastewater passes between said first upstream and second downstream side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zone for separating larger and smaller solids and effecting gravity settling thereof in said respective first upstream and second down stream settling zones, second filter means through which wastewater passes upstream of said first filter means for preventing the entry of larger than the large solids into said first upstream zone, means downstream of said second settling zone for defining a third downstream settling zone for effecting further settling of the wastewater solids, means for effecting generally vertical wastewater flow in any one of said first through third settling zone, means for effecting generally horizontal wastewater flow in another of said first through third settling means, and outlet means for discharging wastewater from said chamber.

Claim 82

Dependent Claim 196 words

A mechanism for wastewater treatment comprising first means for defining a first generally vertically disposed settling chamber in which first size wastewater solids will gravity settle, inlet means for introducing wastewater into said first settling chamber, second means downstream of said first settling chamber for defining a second generally vertically disposed settling chamber in which second size wastewater solids smaller than the first size waste water solids will gravity settle, first filter means upstream of said first settling chamber for preventing third size wastewater solids larger than the first size wastewater solids from entering the first settling chamber, second filter means upstream of said second settling chamber for preventing the first size wastewater solids from entering said second settling chamber and passing the second size wastewater solids into the second settling chamber, means downstream of said second settling chamber for defining a third generally vertically disposed settling chamber for further gravity settling the second size wastewater solids which have not settled in the second settling chamber and flowed into the third settling chamber, and said first through third settling chambers being generally in side-by-side relationship, and outlet means for discharging wastewater from said third settling chamber.

Claim 83

Dependent Claim 196 words

A mechanism for wastewater treatment comprising first means for defining a first generally vertically disposed settling chamber in which first size wastewater solids will gravity settle, inlet means for introducing wastewater into said first settling chamber, second means downstream of said first settling chamber for defining a second generally vertically disposed settling chamber in which second size wastewater solids smaller than the first size waste water solids will gravity settle, first filter means upstream of said first settling chamber for preventing third size wastewater solids larger than the first size wastewater solids from entering the first settling chamber, second filter means upstream of said second settling chamber for preventing the first size wastewater solids from entering said second settling chamber and passing the second size wastewater solids into the second settling chamber, means downstream of said second settling chamber for defining a third generally vertically disposed settling chamber for further gravity settling the second size wastewater solids which have not settled in the second settling chamber and flowed into the third settling chamber, and said first through third settling chambers being generally in side-by-side relationship, and outlet means for discharging wastewater from said third settling chamber.

Claim 84

Dependent Claim 48 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 76 including third filter means between said first and second settling chambers for selectively passing fourth size wastewater solids smaller than the first size solids but larger than the second size solids from the first settling chamber into the second settling chamber.

Claim 85

Dependent Claim 25 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 77 wherein said second and third filter means define a wall common to said first and second settling chambers.

Claim 86

Dependent Claim 23 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 77 wherein said first, second and third settling chambers are in generally concentric relationship to each other.

Claim 87

Dependent Claim 58 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 76 including third filter means between said first and second settling chambers for selectively passing fourth size wastewater solids smaller than the first size solids but larger than the second size solids from the first settling chamber into the second settling chamber in response to wastewater height in the first settling chamber.

Claim 88

Dependent Claim 23 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 76 wherein said second filter means defines a wall common to said first and second settling chambers.

Claim 89

Dependent Claim 23 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 76 wherein said first, second and third settling chambers are in generally concentric relationship to each other.

Claim 90

Dependent Claim 33 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 82 including first, second and third wall means in generally telescopic radially spaced relationship from each other for selectively defining said first, second and third settling chambers.

Claim 91

Dependent Claim 33 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 76 including first, second and third wall means in generally telescopic radially spaced relationship from each other for selectively defining said first, second and third settling chambers.

Claim 92

Dependent Claim 48 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 76 including first, second and third wall means in generally telescopic radially spaced relationship from each other for selectively defining said first, second and third settling chambers, and said first, second and third settling chambers are each of a generally annular configuration.

Claim 93

Dependent Claim 25 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 76 wherein said first, second and third chambers include bottom wall portions upon which the respective wastewater solids settle.

Claim 94

Dependent Claim 48 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 76 including means defining a relatively large tank having an inlet through which the wastewater is delivered into said tank for subsequent processing through said first, second and third settling chambers, and means for delivering the processed wastewater exteriorly of said tank.

Claim 95

Dependent Claim 47 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 76 including means defining a septic tank having an inlet through which the wastewater is delivered into said tank for subsequent processing through said first, second and third settling chambers, and means for delivering the processed wastewater exteriorly of said tank.

Claim 96

Dependent Claim 133 words

A chlorinating and filtering mechanism comprising means for defining a chlorination chamber defined at least by a peripheral wall and a bottom wall, inlet means for introducing wastewater into said chamber, means for defining a filtering chamber defined in part by a peripheral wall, said filtering chamber peripheral wall being located generally within said chlorination chamber peripheral wall and in at least partial spaced relationship thereto, said peripheral walls defining therebetween a wastewater chlorination contact zone, means for introducing wastewater into said chlorination chamber, means for chlorinating the wastewater incident to its flow into said chlorination contact zone, filtering means in said filtering chamber downstream of said chlorination contact zone for filtering solids from the wastewater which have passed beyond said chlorination contact zone, and outlet means for discharging wastewater from said chamber.

Claim 97

Dependent Claim 133 words

A chlorinating and filtering mechanism comprising means for defining a chlorination chamber defined at least by a peripheral wall and a bottom wall, inlet means for introducing wastewater into said chamber, means for defining a filtering chamber defined in part by a peripheral wall, said filtering chamber peripheral wall being located generally within said chlorination chamber peripheral wall and in at least partial spaced relationship thereto, said peripheral walls defining therebetween a wastewater chlorination contact zone, means for introducing wastewater into said chlorination chamber, means for chlorinating the wastewater incident to its flow into said chlorination contact zone, filtering means in said filtering chamber downstream of said chlorination contact zone for filtering solids from the wastewater which have passed beyond said chlorination contact zone, and outlet means for discharging wastewater from said chamber.

Claim 98

Dependent Claim 44 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 89 wherein a juncture portion of said chlorination chamber peripheral wall and said bottom wall define a settling zone for solids during the flow of the wastewater from said chlorination chamber to said filtering chamber.

Claim 99

Dependent Claim 23 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 89 wherein said wastewater introducing means is located generally above said chlorination contact zone.

Claim 100

Dependent Claim 28 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 89 wherein said wastewater introducing means is located generally at an upper portion of said chlorination chamber peripheral wall.

Claim 101

Dependent Claim 38 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 89 wherein said wastewater introducing means is located generally above said chlorination contact zone, and said chlorinating means is located between said introducing means and said chlorination contact zone.

Claim 102

Dependent Claim 44 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 89 wherein said wastewater introducing means is located generally at an upper portion of said chlorination chamber peripheral wall, and said chlorinating means is located between said introducing means and said chlorination chamber contact zone.

Claim 103

Dependent Claim 71 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 89 including means upstream of said chlorination chamber for defining another wastewater solids settling chamber within which wastewater level can vary, and said wastewater introducing means is constructed and arranged for controlling the flow of wastewater from said another wastewater solids settling chamber into said chlorination chamber in response to the level of the wastewater in said another wastewater solids settling chamber.

Claim 104

Dependent Claim 83 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 89 including means upstream of said chlorination chamber for defining another wastewater solids settling chamber within which wastewater level can vary, said wastewater introducing means is constructed and arranged for controlling the flow of wastewater from said another wastewater solids settling chamber into said chlorination chamber in response to the level of the wastewater in said another wastewater solids settling chamber, and said controlling means is an opening in said chlorination chamber peripheral wall.

Claim 105

Dependent Claim 72 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 89 including means upstream of said chlorination chamber for defining another wastewater solids settling chamber within which wastewater level can vary, and said wastewater introducing means is constructed and arranged for controlling the flow of wastewater from said another wastewater solids settling chamber into said chlorination chamber in response to the hydraulic head of the wastewater in said another wastewater solids settling chamber.

Claim 106

Dependent Claim 73 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 89 including means upstream of said chlorination chamber for defining another wastewater solids settling chamber within which wastewater level can vary, and said wastewater introducing means is constructed and arranged for controlling the flow of wastewater from said another wastewater solids settling chamber into said chlorination chamber proportionally in response to the hydraulic head of the wastewater in said another wastewater solids settling chamber.

Claim 107

Dependent Claim 89 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 89 including means upstream of said chlorination chamber for defining another wastewater solids settling chamber within which wastewater level can vary, said wastewater introducing means is constructed and arranged for controlling the flow of wastewater from said another wastewater solids settling chamber into said chlorination chamber proportionally in response to the hydraulic head of the wastewater in said another wastewater solids settling chamber, and said controlling means are a pair of elevationally offset openings in said chlorination chamber peripheral wall.

Claim 108

Dependent Claim 25 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 89 wherein said introducing means include at least two inlets in said chlorination chamber peripheral wall.

Claim 109

Dependent Claim 27 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 89 wherein said introducing means include at least two peripherally spaced inlets in said chlorination chamber peripheral wall.

Claim 110

Dependent Claim 39 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 89 wherein said introducing means include at least two inlets in said chlorination chamber peripheral wall, and said chlorinating means is located between said inlets and said chlorination contact zone.

Claim 111

Dependent Claim 54 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 89 including means for defining a generally inclined flow path for wastewater between said wastewater introducing means and said chlorination contact zone, and said chlorinating means is constructed and arranged for introducing chlorine into the wastewater during the flow thereof along said inclined flow path.

Claim 112

Dependent Claim 71 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 103 including means upstream of said chlorination chamber for defining another wastewater solids settling chamber within which wastewater level can vary, and said wastewater introducing means is constructed and arranged for controlling the flow of wastewater from said another wastewater solids settling chamber into said chlorination chamber in response to the level of the wastewater in said another wastewater solids settling chamber.

Claim 113

Dependent Claim 69 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 103 wherein said peripheral walls are constructed and arranged to define a first wastewater solids settling chamber for effecting generally vertical settlement of solids from the wastewater during flow thereof from said chlorination chamber to said filtering chamber, and said filtering chamber peripheral wall and bottom wall define a second wastewater solids settling chamber downstream of said first settling chamber.

Claim 114

Dependent Claim 72 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 103 including means upstream of said chlorination chamber for defining another wastewater solids settling chamber within which wastewater level can vary, and said wastewater introducing means is constructed and arranged for controlling the flow of wastewater from said another wastewater solids settling chamber into said chlorination chamber in response to the hydraulic head of the wastewater in said another wastewater solids settling chamber.

Claim 115

Dependent Claim 29 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 103 wherein said filtering means are constructed and arranged to effect flow of wastewater therethrough in a generally horizontal direction.

Claim 116

Dependent Claim 55 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 89 including means for defining a generally inclined flow path for wastewater between said wastewater introducing means and said chlorination contact zone, and said chlorinating means is constructed and arranged for introducing chlorine transversely into the wastewater during the flow thereof along said inclined flow path.

Claim 117

Dependent Claim 57 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanisms as defined in claim 89 including means for defining a generally inclined flow path for wastewater between said wastewater introducing means and said chlorination contact zone, and said chlorinating means is constructed and arranged for introducing chlorine transversely from above into the wastewater during the flow thereof along said inclined flow path.

Claim 118

Dependent Claim 58 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 89 including means for defining a generally inclined flow path for wastewater between said wastewater introducing means and said chlorination contact zone, and said chlorinating means is constructed and arranged for introducing chlorine tablets transversely from above into the wastewater during the flow thereof along said inclined flow path.

Claim 119

Dependent Claim 29 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 89 wherein said filtering means are constructed and arranged to effect flow of wastewater therethrough in a generally horizontal direction.

Claim 120

Dependent Claim 58 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 89 wherein said filtering means are constructed and arranged to effect flow of wastewater therethrough in a generally horizontal direction and said chlorination chamber is constructed and arranged to effect generally vertical settlement of solids from the wastewater during flow thereof from said chlorination chamber to said filtering chamber.

Claim 121

Dependent Claim 70 words

The chlorinating and filtering mechanism as defined in claim 89 wherein said peripheral walls are constructed and arranged to define a first waste water solids settling chamber for effecting generally vertical settlement of solids from the wastewater during flow thereof from said chlorination chamber to said filtering chamber, and said filtering chamber peripheral wall and bottom wall define a second wastewater solids settling chamber downstream of said first settling chamber.

Claim 122

Dependent Claim 125 words

A mechanism for wastewater treatment comprising means for defining a chamber in which wastewater is treated during the passage thereof through said chamber, inlet means for introducing wastewater into said chamber, first filter means for preventing relatively large size solids from entering said chamber, second filter means in said chamber downstream of said first filter means for effecting the passage therethrough of relatively smaller size solids, means downstream of said second filter means defining a downstream settling zone for effecting the settlement thereat of the relatively smaller size solids, means downstream of said settling zone for controlling wastewater flow through said settling zone generally in response to the level of the wastewater in said settling zone, and outlet means for discharging wastewater from said chamber.

Claim 123

Dependent Claim 125 words

A mechanism for wastewater treatment comprising means for defining a chamber in which wastewater is treated during the passage thereof through said chamber, inlet means for introducing wastewater into said chamber, first filter means for preventing relatively large size solids from entering said chamber, second filter means in said chamber downstream of said first filter means for effecting the passage therethrough of relatively smaller size solids, means downstream of said second filter means defining a downstream settling zone for effecting the settlement thereat of the relatively smaller size solids, means downstream of said settling zone for controlling wastewater flow through said settling zone generally in response to the level of the wastewater in said settling zone, and outlet means for discharging wastewater from said chamber.

Claim 124

Dependent Claim 21 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 114 wherein said controlling means is an opening in fluid communication with said settling zone.

Claim 125

Dependent Claim 23 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 114 wherein said settling zone is defined by said second filter means and a wall downstream thereof.

Claim 126

Dependent Claim 33 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 114, wherein said settling zone is defined by said second filter means and a wall downstream thereof, and said controlling means is an opening in said wall.

Claim 127

Dependent Claim 40 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 114 wherein said settling zone is defined by said second filter means and a wall downstream thereof, and a second wall downstream of said first-mentioned wall and defining therewith a second downstream settling zone.

Claim 128

Dependent Claim 54 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 114 wherein said settling zone is defined by said second filter means and a wall downstream thereof, a second wall downstream of said first-mentioned wall and defining therewith a second downstream settling zone, and said controlling means is in fluid communication with said first and second settling zones.

Claim 129

Dependent Claim 64 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 114 wherein said settling zone is defined by said second filter means and a wall downstream thereof, a second wall downstream of said first-mentioned wall and defining therewith a second downstream settling zone, said controlling means is in fluid communication with said first and second settling zones, and said controlling means is an opening in said first-mentioned wall.

Claim 130

Dependent Claim 120 words

A wastewater treatment tank comprising a wastewater treatment chamber, means for introducing wastewater into said wastewater treatment chamber, a solids settling chamber within said wastewater treatment chamber, means for conducting wastewater from said wastewater treatment chamber into said solids settling chamber, filtering means forming a part of said solid settling chamber through which wastewater passes for separating larger and smaller solids between first upstream and second downstream side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones on opposite sides of said filter means, means for conducting wastewater from said solids settling chamber exteriorly of said wastewater treatment chamber, and means for chlorinating the wastewater prior to settling out solids therefrom by said settling means and before the wastewater exits the wastewater treatment chamber.

Claim 131

Dependent Claim 120 words

A wastewater treatment tank comprising a wastewater treatment chamber, means for introducing wastewater into said wastewater treatment chamber, a solids settling chamber within said wastewater treatment chamber, means for conducting wastewater from said wastewater treatment chamber into said solids settling chamber, filtering means forming a part of said solid settling chamber through which wastewater passes for separating larger and smaller solids between first upstream and second downstream side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones on opposite sides of said filter means, means for conducting wastewater from said solids settling chamber exteriorly of said wastewater treatment chamber, and means for chlorinating the wastewater prior to settling out solids therefrom by said settling means and before the wastewater exits the wastewater treatment chamber.

Claim 132

Dependent Claim 23 words

The wastewater treatment tank as defined in claim 121 wherein said wastewater treatment chamber is a clarification chamber of a wastewater treatment system.

Claim 133

Dependent Claim 18 words

The wastewater treatment tank as defined in claim 121 wherein said wastewater treatment chamber is a septic tank.

Claim 134

Dependent Claim 36 words

The wastewater treatment tank as defined in claim 121 wherein said wastewater treatment chamber is a clarification chamber of a wastewater treatment system, and wastewater treatment system includes an aeration chamber upstream of said clarification chamber.

Claim 135

Dependent Claim 44 words

The wastewater treatment tank as defined in claim 121 wherein said wastewater treatment chamber is a clarification chamber of a wastewater treatment system, wastewater treatment system includes an aeration chamber upstream of said clarification chamber, and a pretreatment chamber upstream of said aeration chamber.

Claim 136

Dependent Claim 38 words

The wastewater treatment tank as defined in claim 121 including filter means upstream of said settling means for separating larger and smaller solids prior to settling out of the smaller solids from the wastewater by said settling means.

Claim 137

Dependent Claim 43 words

The wastewater treatment tank as defined in claim 121 wherein said solids settling chamber includes filter means upstream of said settling means for filtering larger and smaller solids prior to settling out of the smaller solids from the wastewater by said settling means.

Claim 138

Dependent Claim 38 words

The wastewater treatment tank as defined in claim 121 wherein said solids settling chamber includes means for controlling wastewater flow through said settling means generally in response to the level of the wastewater in said wastewater treatment chamber.

Claim 139

Dependent Claim 122 words

A mechanism for wastewater treatment comprising means for defining a chamber in which wastewater is treated during the passage thereof through said chamber, said chamber including filter means through which wastewater passes for separating larger and smaller solids between first upstream and second downstream side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones on opposite sides of said filter means, said filter means and first and second settling zones being each of a generally annular configuration, a plurality of third generally horizontally disposed and vertically stacked settling zones downstream of and generally surrounded by said second settling zone for gravity settling solids during generally horizontal wastewater flow therealong, inlet means for introducing wastewater into said chamber, and outlet means for discharging wastewater from said chamber.

Claim 140

Dependent Claim 122 words

A mechanism for wastewater treatment comprising means for defining a chamber in which wastewater is treated during the passage thereof through said chamber, said chamber including filter means through which wastewater passes for separating larger and smaller solids between first upstream and second downstream side-by-side generally vertically disposed settling zones on opposite sides of said filter means, said filter means and first and second settling zones being each of a generally annular configuration, a plurality of third generally horizontally disposed and vertically stacked settling zones downstream of and generally surrounded by said second settling zone for gravity settling solids during generally horizontal wastewater flow therealong, inlet means for introducing wastewater into said chamber, and outlet means for discharging wastewater from said chamber.

Claim 141

Dependent Claim 25 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 129 wherein said filter means and first and second settling zones are generally in concentric relationship to each other.

Claim 142

Dependent Claim 25 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 129 wherein said filter means and first and second settling zones are generally in nested relationship to each other.

Claim 143

Dependent Claim 59 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 131 including means within said chamber downstream of said second settling zone and upstream of said third settling zone for flow equalizing wastewater flow through said first and second settling zones generally in variable response to upstream variable levels of the wastewater in at least one of said first and second settling zones.

Claim 144

Dependent Claim 59 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 129 including means within said chamber downstream of said second settling zone and upstream of said third settling zone for flow equalizing wastewater flow through said first and second settling zones generally in variable response to upstream variable levels of the wastewater in at least one of said first and second settling zones.

Claim 145

Dependent Claim 59 words

The mechanism as defined in claim 130 including means within said chamber downstream of said second settling zone and upstream of said third settling zone for flow equalizing wastewater flow through said first and second settling zones generally in variable response to upstream variable levels of the wastewater in at least one of said first and second settling zones.

Annuity Stage	Window Opens	Payment Deadline	Surcharge Period Until	Estimated Fee	Status
3.5 Years (Year 4)	1996-05-03	1996-11-02	1997-05-04	$2000.00	Window Closed / Lapsed
7.5 Years (Year 8)	2000-05-03	2000-11-02	2001-05-04	$3760.00	Window Closed / Lapsed
11.5 Years (Year 12)	2004-05-03	2004-11-02	2005-05-04	$7700.00	Window Closed / Lapsed

Wastewater treatment mechanism

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