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 [Search a list of Patent Appplications for class 96]   CLASS 96,GAS SEPARATION: APPARATUS
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SECTION I - CLASS DEFINITION

This class provides for apparatus used in separation of a gas from a fluid mixture comprising (i) a gas and solid or liquid particles entrained therein, (ii) a liquid and gas entrained therein, or (iii) a plurality of gases. As a general rule for this class, there must be a relationship of apparatus parts embracing: (a) an inlet for the fluid mixture to be treated, (b) a means effective to cause separation into constituent parts, and (c) an outlet for at least one constituent separate and distinct from an outlet for another constituent, which may be for removal of the separating media itself, or a single outlet used at different times to remove the separated constituents. The gas separation apparatus for this class does not include means in which the separation is caused by a chemical reaction.

The basic subject matter of this class is of a subcombination nature and may include only such ancillary apparatus (e.g., fluid handling means, etc.) as is necessary to perfect the gas separating function. Significant inclusion in a claim of features beyond merely perfecting the gas separating function indicates classification in a more comprehensive class. Generally, however, the mere naming of an art device in a claim to a gas separator does not affect classification. Thus, a claim to an air filter combined with a nominally included motor vehicle is proper for this class.

SECTION II - NOTES TO THE CLASS DEFINITION

(1) Note. The gas separation apparatus for this class generally involves means to use a magnetic field, to use an electrical field, to diffuse selectively, to sorb on a solid sorbent, to degasify a liquid, to contact a gas with a liquid, to filter, or to deflect, or involves other mechanical means. See Lines With Other Classes, below, for the line concerning the means in which the gas separation is caused by a chemical reaction.
(2) Note. This class also provides for the subcombination of the separating media, per se, when disclosed for gas separating. However, see Lines with other Classes, and References to Other Classes, below, for solid sorbents and liquid sorbents.
(3) Note. Devices which may inherently perform a gas separating function but are not found in this class include grids, gratings, grilles, woven fabrics, screens, and the like. They will be found in a stock material class, for which see Lines With Other Classes, Below. However, devices of these types when positively stated as being for gas separation will be found in Class 96.
(4) Note. This class also provides for apparatus in which the fluid mixture is treated to change its make-up, but no real separation occurs, provided no other suitable classification exists. Accordingly, in this class are found "spark arresters," which merely change the size of particles entrained in a gas. (See References To Other Classes for the line concerning spark arresters when used on furnaces.) These devices are usually deflectors or screens and are included in this class because of their similarity to apparatus which actually separate the fluid mixture into constituent parts. Similarly, agglomerators which by themselves may not separate constituents of a fluid mixture, but cause small particles therein to join together or coalesce to form larger particles, are in this class unless basis for other classification exists.

SECTION III - LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS

See the class search note for Class 422, Chemical Apparatus and Process Disinfecting, Deodorizing, Preserving, or Sterilizing, for the line concerning the means in which the gas separation is caused by a chemical reaction.

Solid sorbants are found in Class 502, Catalyst, Solid Sorbent, or Support Therefor: Product or Process of Making, and liquid sorbents are found in Class 252, Compositions. (Also see the search class notes below.)

Devices which may inherently perform a gas separating function but are not found in this class include grids, gratings, grilles, woven fabrics, screens, and the like. They will be found in a stock material class (e.g., Class 428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, etc.).

SECTION IV - REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:

15, Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning,   appropriate subclasses for gas separation devices claimed in combination with a work contacting tool (e.g., a vacuum cleaner comprising a device contacting the work to be cleaned and an air filter, etc.) and subclasses 301+ for gas separating means associated with fixed position or installed cleaners. For classification in Class 15, subclasses 301+, it is not necessary to claim the work contacting tool; it is sufficient to claim a building modification to accommodate the system parts or some special modification of the apparatus for its intended use, such modification going beyond mere ground support means.
34, Drying and Gas or Vapor Contact With Solids,   appropriate subclasses for generic apparatus for separating liquids from solids (i.e., drying) and the contacting of solids with either gases or vapors. Class 96 takes the apparatus for the separation of a gas from a fluid mixture in combination with means to regenerate the separating media by drying or by gas or vapor contact.
47, Plant Husbandry,   appropriate subclasses for apparatus for separation of a gas from a fluid mixture by use of a plant of higher order.
48, Gas: Heating and Illuminating,   appropriate subclasses for apparatus for the manufacture of heating and illuminating gases and means for the purification, distribution, and storage thereof.
60, Power Plants,   subclasses 272+ for a power plant of the internal combustion engine type with treatment or handling of exhaust gas.
62, Refrigeration,   appropriate subclasses for apparatus peculiar to removing heat from a substance, usually by a change of phase of a coolant or refrigerant, and for apparatus involving subject matter for Class 96 combined with significant refrigeration apparatus. Examples of significant refrigeration are: (i) expansion of a gas through an orifice whereby cooling is effected to condense any of the constituents of the gas by such temperature reduction; (ii) a significant physical relationship or arrangement between elements of a refrigeration circuit (e.g., two related refrigeration coils, detailed description of the circuit, etc.); (iii) change of phase of a coolant or refrigerant (i.e., evaporation, melting, or sublimation) whereby cooling is effected to condense any of the constituents of the gas by such temperature reduction. Some examples of what may be found in Class 62 are: (a) separation of a constituent from a plurality of gases by a significantly claimed refrigeration step or apparatus; (b) condensation of moisture from the atmosphere as a result of a refrigeration operation; (c) gas drying by sorption followed by contacting the dried gas with a liquid to produce cooling by evaporation; (d) a refrigerated enclosure combined with sorption means; (e) refrigeration producing processes and apparatus combined with steps or means for drying the refrigerant; and (f) extracting a constituent from a plurality of gases by liquefaction and separation (e.g., fractionation or distillation, etc.).
73, Measuring and Testing,   subclasses 23.2+ for apparatus for gas analysis, per se, and also the combination of gas separation apparatus and significant gas analysis means. The combination of gas separation apparatus and nominal means for "analyzing" or "detecting" without further detail of the analysis or detection means is insufficient to cause a patent to be placed in Class 73; that patent will be placed in Class 96. Also, if there is feedback means from the analytical apparatus to control or effect a change in the gas separation, then classification is in Class 96. For volume or rate of flow meters combined with gas-liquid separators, see Class 73, subclass 200.
95, Gas Separation: Processes,   for the corresponding processes to the apparatus of Class 96. When a patent has a claim or claims to a Class 95 process and a claim or claims to a Class 96 apparatus, the patent will be placed as an original in Class 95, even though there may be an apparatus claim that is more comprehensive than a process claim.
110, Furnaces,   subclasses 119+ for significant furnace apparatus including a spark arrester.
118, Coating Apparatus,   subclasses 715+ for coating apparatus in which the coating material used is either gaseous or vaporous. The apparatus may have gas separation means for removing foreign or undesirable components from the coating material.
122, Liquid Heaters and Vaporizers,   subclass 492 for devices located in the steam dome of a boiler for separating water from steam.
123, Internal-Combustion Engines,   subclasses 518+ for internal-combustion engines including a charge-forming device having a fuel vapor recovery and storage system.
128, Surgery,   subclasses 200.24+ for apparatus for supplying a breathable gas to, or exhausting such gas from, a living body. Subclass 200.24 and the subclasses mentioned below require that the apparatus be adapted for use on or in the living body and also include diagnostic or therapeutic apparatus when the only disclosed utility is for diagnosis or treatment of a living body. See especially subclass 200.25 for an artificial gill or means for separating entrained air from a liquid stream; subclass 201.25 for a respiratory device including body or head supported means covering user"s scalp and means for removing a substance from respiratory gas; subclass 204.16 for removal of a substance from respiratory gas by cooling; subclass 205.12 for means for supplying respiratory gas under positive pressure including means for removing a substance from the respiratory gas; and subclass 205.27 for a respiratory device including means for removing a substance from a respiratory gas.
131, Tobacco,   subclasses 331+ for means for removing or separating a constituent material from tobacco smoke combined with tobacco products or disclosed for use with a tobacco user"s appliance or article where the disclosure or claim is directed solely to such use. A copy of a patent so limited as above should be placed as a cross-reference in Class 96 if general utility for gas separation is recognized.
137, Fluid Handling,   appropriate subclasses for combinations of fluid handling apparatus and gas separation apparatus involving more than mere flow control (e.g., valving, etc.) to or from the gas separating apparatus. (i) For classification in either Class 137 or Class 96 where both the fluid handling apparatus and gas separation apparatus are included in the combination, classification will be based upon the ultimate purpose of the subject matter and not on the ancillary or subordinate feature of the combination consistent with the objects and aims therefor (e.g., it is not intended that the inclusion of a fabric filter no matter how specifically defined will be sufficient to carry a "gas field storage and distribution system" to Class 96, whether the filter protects the operating parts of the system or is the most downstream element thereof). The fluid handling for Class 96 should be no more than that necessary to convey or conduct the fluid mixture to, at, or away from the point of separation. (ii) However, where (a) the Class 137 feature is a simple valve (e.g., a check valve, a mere stop and go valve, or a mere flow control valve as distinct from a multiway valve or a pressure regulator), (b) the gas separation apparatus and valve are in an intimate flow relationship within a gas conduit, and (c) the gas separation apparatus is claimed by more than name only, classification is in Class 96, regardless of the ultimate purpose of the subject matter and irrespective of the details of the valve recited in the claim. (iii) Class 137 also takes separation of gases from gases, liquids, or solids by gravitational means only (i.e., where no specific means is claimed for effecting the separation). A single expansion chamber alone which separates a fluid mixture is not regarded as a specific separating means. However, two such chambers (in series or parallel) are considered to be specific. If there is a baffle or other impingement surface claimed, other than the wall of the chamber itself, such apparatus is to be placed in Class 96.
141, Fluent Material Handling, With Receiver or Receiver Coacting Means,   appropriate subclasses for apparatus for transferring fluent material through a flow confining system, the source and receiver parts of which are normally separable.
156, Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,   appropriate subclasses for apparatus there classified for adhesively bonding and otherwise manufacturing filters.
160, Flexible or Portable Closure, Partition, or Panel,   appropriate subclasses for flexible fabric panel units and subclasses 382+ for fabric fastening means. Class 160 is the generic class for panel units having flexible fabric and takes flexible fabric panel units having several different named purposes, one of which may be gas separation. Class 96 takes a panel unit having flexible fabric when used only for gas separation.
165, Heat Exchange,   appropriate subclasses for apparatus where only indirect heat exchange is involved and subclasses 58+ for a heating and cooling system with an ancillary separator. However, cold wall-hot wall thermal diffusion apparatus will be found in Class 96, subclass 221.
166, Wells,   for shafts or deep borings in the earth for the extraction of fluids from the earth. Gas separation apparatus including a nominal recitation of a well is proper for Class 96. For classification in Class 166, some details specific to wells should be recited for the combination of gas separation apparatus and a well. However, in the situation in which one of the constituents separated is inserted into an input well, a mere broad recitation of such well is sufficient for classification in Class 166.
180, Motor Vehicles,   subclass 68.3 for modified vehicle structure such as hood modifications and other air inlets (e.g., body grille, etc.) with conduits or connections to or for carburetor intake and including filter means.
181, Acoustics,   subclass 231 for a muffler with a solid particle separator (e.g., spark arrester, vacuum cleaner, etc.). See Class 96, subclasses 380+ for gas separation apparatus with sound damping means.
196, Mineral Oils: Apparatus,   for apparatus for treating, refining, or recovering mineral oils such as petroleum, coal, tar, pitch, asphalt, or related products. Class 196 takes apparatus having means for gas separation combined with significant means to treat, refine, or recover mineral oils.
202, Distillation: Apparatus,   appropriate subclasses for apparatus for the volatilization of a substance from either solids or liquids for the purpose of recovering material from the vapor produced by condensation or absorption. Other means for the physical treatment of the vapor may be included (e.g., filter, deflector, dephlegmator, etc.).
204, Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy,   subclasses 193+ for apparatus in which a chemical change is brought about by the application of an electric current to material being treated wherein more than the mere thermal effect of the current is involved, and subclasses 660+ for apparatus for the separation or purification of liquids by the physical or physical-chemical action of an electrical stress.
209, Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids,   subclasses indented under subclasses 21 and 133 that include "deposition" in their titles for apparatus for the separating and segregating into grades components of solid mixtures employing a gaseous suspending medium which is separated from the solids.
210, Liquid Purification or Separation,   appropriate subclasses for apparatus for the separation of a constituent from a flowable liquid mixture; except for apparatus for the separation of a gas initially present in a liquid mixture. Class 210 is superior to Class 96 and takes separating apparatus, per se, generically disclosed or claimed for use in fluid separation or if the disclosure or a claim is restricted to liquid separation apparatus. Class 210 also takes apparatus which removes or vents gas formed incidentally to the handling of the fluid mixture or as a result of a Class 210 treatment (see particularly subclasses 120 , 180, 188, 218, 406, and 436). However, Class 96 takes apparatus operating to remove gas initially present in an inflowing liquid mixture, with or without liquid separation. Apparatus for the removal of a volatile organic compound (e.g., ethanol (C2H5OH), gasoline, etc.) from a liquid is not taken to be apparatus for the degasification of a liquid for Class 96 when the volatile organic compound is initially present as a liquid mixed with another liquid. Apparatus for the removal of a volatile organic compound from a liquid may be found in Class 210 for liquid purification or separation or Class 202 for separatory distillation. Class 96 will also take apparatus including a liquid separation means in a Class 96 gas separation apparatus (e.g., means to regenerate a scrubbing liquid in a gas scrubbing apparatus, etc.).
215, Bottles and Jars,   subclass 308 for closures for bottles and jars with the receptacle interior communicable with the exterior through a filter when the closure is in the applied position.
220, Receptacles,   subclasses 366 and 367+ for vents for closures for receptacles combined with gas separating means wherein the gas separator is recited by name only, or the claim includes details of the receptacle (e.g., splash plate in the receptacle or vent, etc.) or of the closure (e.g., configuration or means for attaching to the receptacle, etc.).
236, Automatic Temperature and Humidity Regulation,   subclasses 53 through 60for steam traps with thermostatically controlled valves.
239, Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing,   subclasses 34+ for slow diffusers, which are devices used to disperse or spread material into the ambient air without the use of draft producing means. With a disclosure of gas separation or humidity control (air conditioning), Class 239 will take, as a slow diffuser, a pad, filter, or fibrous mass that is saturated or maintained saturated with a diffusible liquid (water or volatile solvents) unless any of the following are included: (i) gas contacting means within the meaning of Class 261 (e.g., special flow arrangements through conduits or the like, etc.), or (ii) gas movement effecting means (e.g., pump, fan, etc.). Class 261 will take patents having the qualifications in (i) or (ii) if the filter, pad, or mass is: (a) continuously supplied with liquid, (b) cyclically or periodically moved through a liquid reservoir, (c) maintained wet by liquid applying means, or (d) moistened by maintaining some part of a continuous wick type member immersed in liquid. Class 96 will take patents having the qualifications in (i) or (ii) if the liquid supply means described in (a) through (d) is not included. An absorbent mass with oil or viscous fluid therein or supplied thereto disclosed for gas separation, or a solid or nonabsorbent sheet disclosed in a gas separating environment is not classified in Class 239, but is classifiable in either Class 96 or Class 261, depending on the nature of the liquid source. (See also the search class note to Class 261 in this section).
241, Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration,   subclasses 68+ for apparatus for combinations of comminution and separation of solids from a gas. Class 241 is superior to the material separation classes and, therefore, provides for apparatus in which comminution is combined with means to separate the material into classes according to the physical characteristics of its components before, during, or after the comminuting operation. Class 96 takes apparatus, such as deflectors or the like, that may act to comminute material as a secondary or incidental function of what is basically a holding back or separating procedure (e.g., disintegration or attrition of ignited particles in spark arresters, etc.). Such apparatus are classified on the basis of their essential function in Class 96.
242, Winding, Tensioning, or Guiding,   subclasses 550+ for unwinding an elongated material, and subclasses 570+ for a coil holder of general use.
250, Radiant Energy,   subclasses 281+ for apparatus for the ionic separation of materials utilizing the charge-to-mass ratios of particles. See particularly subclasses 294+ for apparatus to subject the ionized particles to the effects of an electric or magnetic field, which causes the particles to travel through a curved trajectory, the particles of a certain charge-to-mass ratio having a trajectory different from those particles having other charge-to-mass ratios.
252, Compositions,   subclasses 189+ for substances (e.g., liquid sorbent compositions, etc.) for use in absorbing or binding carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur (S), negative elements, or acids; subclass 193 for substances (e.g., liquid sorbent compositions, etc.) for use in absorbing or binding ammonia, alkalis, or other bases; and subclass 194 for substances (e.g., liquid sorbent compositions, etc.) for use in absorbing or binding water.
261, Gas and Liquid Contact Apparatus,   appropriate subclasses, for apparatus for degasifying liquid (e.g., deaerating feed water heater, etc.) wherein the liquid is merely contacted with a gas in a chamber or space for deaeration thereof; for apparatus wherein a gaseous fluid mixture is contacted with a liquid spray, sheet, stream, or bath to precipitate dust or to sorb a constituent from the gaseous fluid mixture; for apparatus comprising a nonabsorbent element on which a gaseous fluid mixture is contacted with a liquid if the element is continuously supplied with a liquid or is continuously moved into and out of a liquid bath or supply; and for apparatus comprising an absorbent porous sheet or mass on which a gaseous fluid mixture is contacted with a liquid if the sheet or mass is: (a) continuously supplied with liquid, (b) cyclically or periodically moved through a liquid reservoir, (c) maintained wet by liquid applying means, or (d) moistened by maintaining some part of a continuous wick type member immersed in liquid, by following the law of the machine, or during normal operation of a gas contacting function. Note that under the provisions of (a) and (b) there must be no affirmative means to dry the sheet or mass, nor means to assure a dry condition of the sheet or mass before gas flow is resumed or the sheet or mass is returned to the gas contacting position. If apparatus for degasifying liquid by contact with a gas has other means to cause gas separation of the liquid with gas entrained therein, of the separated gas, or of the separated liquid, then the apparatus is classified in Class 96. If apparatus in which a gaseous fluid mixture is contacted with a liquid to precipitate dust or to sorb a constituent from the gaseous fluid mixture has other means to cause gas separation or has means to treat the contact liquid, then the apparatus is classified in Class 96.
(1) Note. Apparatus for separating ammonia (NH3) or acid anhydrides (CO2, SO2, etc.) from a gas by mere contact with a liquid is classified in Class 261.
(2) Note. Processes for gas separation by contacting a gaseous fluid mixture with a liquid and processes of degasifying a liquid are classified in Class 95.
266, Metallurgical Apparatus,   subclasses 144+ for metallurgical apparatus combined with gas separating means and subclasses 200+ for apparatus for treating liquefied metal. See particularly subclasses 208+ for apparatus for treating liquefied metal by application of vacuum that may include degasification of the liquefied metal.
296, Land Vehicles: Bodies and Tops,   subclasses 77.1+ for storm-front shields, aprons, or robes used to protect the occupants of vehicles from storm or wind coming from the direction in which the vehicle is moving.
323, Electricity: Power Supply or Regulation Systems,   subclasses 220 through 354for voltage magnitude control means not restricted to electrostatic precipitator systems.
363, Electric Power Conversion Systems,   appropriate subclasses, especially subclasses 59+ , 74+, and 100 for current rectification systems not restricted to electrostatic precipitator systems.
376, Induced Nuclear Reactions: Processes, Systems, and Elements,   for apparatus for induced nuclear reactions combined with means for reaction product treatment. See particularly subclasses 146+ , 189, 195, 198, and 201. See subclasses 308+ for apparatus including fission reactor material treatment and subclasses 370+ for reactor structures with means for separation of a vapor.
383, Flexible Bags,   subclasses 42+ for bag closures and appropriate subclasses for bags not used as filter bags for gas separation.
406, Conveyors: Fluid Current,   subclasses 154+ for apparatus to convey solid material in a fluid current with means to separate the solids from the fluid at the conveyor outlet.
415, Rotary Kinetic Fluid Motors or Pumps,   subclass 121.2 for a pump or motor combined with means to separate solids from a gaseous working fluid and subclasses 169.2+ for a pump or motor combined with means to separate moisture vapor or liquid from a gaseous working fluid.
417, Pumps,   appropriate subclasses for pumps combined with upstream filtering or separating means specifically disclosed as protecting the pump and also for pumps combined with separators if any of the separated constituents are fed back or applied to the pump. This includes, for example, lubricant, coolant, or an impelling fluid which is separated from an impelled fluid, as in a jet pump. Class 417 takes jet pumps for flues combined with a spark arrester, because the combination of a jet pump and a spark arrester is considered to be a perfecting feature of the pump. See Class 417, subclass 156 .
(1) Note. A system for evacuating a space and in which a trap is included for preventing back-streaming or back-migration of molecules from a pumping area to the space being evacuated and which operates in the manner of a Class 96 gas separator will be considered a gas separator whether or not the apparatus is so identified. It will be noted that with the trap positioned between the space and the pump, separation would occur with gas flowing in either direction (i.e., from the space to the pump or from the pump to the space), if the fluid is separable.
Classification of the different combinations which may be claimed is as follows: (a) A Class 96 type trap or separator, per se, identified either as a pump or a separator is classified in Class 96. (b) A separator or molecule trap of the Class 96 type combined with a pump to evacuate space is classified in Class 96 unless there is some specific relationship between the separator or trap and the pump (other than the mere pumping of the fluid to and through the trap). As a nonlimiting example, if the separated material is conducted to a pump element for lubrication, cooling, etc., then classification is in Class 417. (c) A separator or molecule trap of the Class 96 type combined with a pump and a space being evacuated is classified in Class 96 unless there is some special separable connection of the type recognized in Class 141 for receiver coaction, in which case classification is in Class 141, regardless of any interrelationship between the pump and the separator or trap as set forth in (b) above. (d) A pump claimed in combination with nominally claimed filter or separator will be classified in Class 417. (a), (b), and (c) do not take into account the combination with heat exchanging or refrigerating means provided for in Classes 62 and 165, for which see the search class notes set out in other parts of this section.
418, Rotary Expansible Chamber Devices,   for rotary expansible chamber type pumps. The line between Class 96 and Class 418 is the same as set forth above for Class 417.
422, Chemical Apparatus and Process Disinfecting, Deodorizing, Preserving, or Sterilizing,   for apparatus for (a) carrying out chemical reactions, (b) preparing or treating chemical compounds or compositions, even though only a physical reaction is discernible, and (c) performing an analysis which involves either a chemical reaction or a physical reaction not elsewhere provided for. See subclasses 88+ for apparatus for quantitative or qualitative chemical analysis of a gas sample including means for absorbing or adsorbing the gas sample or that portion to be tested into or onto liquid or solid media. See subclasses 120+ for apparatus for (a) taking the odor out of or masking the odor of or (b) chemical purification of a life-sustaining environmental gas (for breathing apparatus) or the chemical generation of the same. See subclasses 168+ for apparatus for the modification of a waste gas, prior to its discharge into the atmosphere, by chemical reaction to reduce the pollutant content thereof. Class 96 takes the combination of preserving, disinfecting, or sterilizing means and gas separation means of the type that meets the requirements for gas separation apparatus in the definition for Class 96. The gas separating means may be claimed by name only, provided such named device is disclosed as being more than a mere supporting or treating means for a preserving, disinfecting, or sterilizing substance (see, e.g., Class 96, subclasses 223+).
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,   for stock material which may inherently perform a gas separating function (e.g., a structurally defined web or sheet including apertures, etc.). However, stock material when positively stated as being for gas separation will be found in Class 96 (see Class 55, subclasses 522+ ).
435, Chemistry: Molecular Biology and Microbiology,   subclasses 283.1+ for apparatus claimed or solely disclosed for using a microorganism or enzyme to synthesize a chemical product or for treating a material with a microorganism or enzyme to separate, liberate, or purify a preexisting substance.
451, Abrading,   subclass 453 for an accessory usable with abrading means for collecting particles coming from a grinding wheel or work during operation of the grinding wheel.
454, Ventilation,   appropriate subclasses for ventilated structures, per se, or combined with a gas separating operation. Class 454 includes devices such as screens or gridlike members (e.g., bird screens, etc.), chimney caps, diffusion type air registers, hoods, offtakes, louvers, and pipe caps which function to control rather than to separate gas.
493, Manufacturing Container or Tube From Paper; or Other Manufacturing From a Sheet or Web,   subclasses 39+ for cigarette filter making methods or apparatus; see especially subclasses 47+ for methods or apparatus to assemble dissimilar filter materials (e.g., fiber and powdered charcoal, etc.) and subclass 941 for a cross-reference art collection for operations involving the construction of a filter.
494, Imperforate Bowl: Centrifugal Separators,   for apparatus for the breaking up or subdividing of material, which material comprises a mixture of fluids or fluent substances, into two or more components by utilizing a rotatable, receptaclelike member having a generally solid wall, and commonly termed a bowl, for subjecting the material to centrifugal force. Thus, gas separation apparatus that is an imperforate bowl, centrifugal separator is proper for Class 494.
502, Catalyst, Solid Sorbent, or Support Therefor: Product or Process of Making,   subclasses 60+ for zeolite compositions, per se, and for processes of making zeolite compositions, and subclasses 400+ for other solid sorbent compositions, per se, and for processes of making solid sorbent compositions. Class 502 will take zeolite or other solid sorbent compositions having details of the physical characteristics of the composition itself (e.g., porosity, particle size, etc.). Class 502 will also take zeolite or other solid sorbent compositions that are layered, laminated, or otherwise affixed to another zeolite or other solid sorbent composition or to a support material. Class 96 takes apparatus having (a) an inlet for the fluid mixture to be treated, (b) a means effective to cause separation into constituent parts, and (c) an outlet for at least one constituent separate and distinct from an outlet for another constituent or a single outlet used at different times to remove the separated constituents. The means effective to cause separation into constituent parts confines the zeolite or other solid sorbent composition inside an enclosure that contains the fluid mixture being separated. Class 96 also takes filter elements having zeolite or other solid sorbent compositions held in an open structure or rim that encases, holds, or borders the zeolite or other solid sorbent composition or held on a skeletal structure.

SECTION V - GLOSSARY

CHARGE GAS, GAS, OR SYSTEM FLUID

(Terms used in Class 55 subclass titles and definitions). These terms are used synonymously and mean the inlet mixture of gas carrying therein solids or fluids, the mixture during separation, or a gaseous constituent after separation.

DETECT

The term "detect," which is used in many of the control subclasses, is used in both a quantitative and a qualitative sense. This means that a definite measurement of a process variable is made (e.g., temperature, pressure, concentration, etc.) or that the presence of a particular event is determined (e.g., presence of sparking, change in liquid level determined by position of float, etc.).

FILTER

An article or mass of material made of closely spaced or intimately arranged intermeshed or unconnected fibers, elements, strands, or particles that collectively act as a barrier to physically retain at least one constituent of a fluid mixture on its surfaces or in the spaces between the fibers, elements, strands, or particles while permitting passage of the remaining constituents.

A filter has no "chemical" affinity for a constituent of a fluid mixture. The retention of the constituent by the filter depends upon a mechanical entrapment of solid or liquid particles because of their relatively large size compared with the interstices or spaces between individual fibers, elements, strands, or particles. The retained particles can be removed by brushing, wiping, shaking, or similar mechanical action.

FLUID MIXTURE

The phrase "fluid mixture" is used throughout the definitions to mean (a) a gas and solid or liquid particles entrained therein, (b) a liquid and gas entrained therein, or (c) a plurality of gases.

GAS

Matter of very low density and viscosity, relatively great expansion and contraction, with changes in pressure and temperature, that is readily diffusive, with a tendency to expand indefinitely, with molecules in free movement. The term "gas" includes "vapor" (q.v.).

GASEOUS FLUID MIXTURE

The phrase "gaseous fluid mixture" is used throughout the definitions to mean (a) a gas and solid or liquid particles entrained therein or (b) a plurality of gases.

LIQUID SORBENT

A liquid capable of retaining part of a fluid mixture with which it is contacted. The action in most cases is that of selective retention (i.e., the sorbent removes only that part of the fluid mixture for which it has the greatest affinity).

REGENERATION

Restoration of the separatory material to the condition it was in before the separatory process.

SEPARATING APPARATUS

The entire gas separating means, which consists of all of the apparatus parts related to gas separation and includes apparatus parts that are in addition to the separator.

SEPARATING MEDIUM (MEDIA)

Liquid sorbent or means that effects the separation into constituent parts (e.g., deflector, filter, molecular sieve, sorber, etc.). (Media has been used in the singular and in the plural.)

SEPARATOR

The portion of the apparatus that consists of a separating medium and the structure supporting, retaining, or substantially confining the separating medium.

SOLID SORBENT

A solid sorbent is a solid material which separates a constituent (e.g., a gas, vapor, etc.) from a fluid mixture containing such constituents in a "quasi-chemical" manner. The action in most instances is that of selective retention (i.e., the sorbent removes only the part of the fluid mixture for which it has the greatest affinity). The retained constituent cannot be removed by shaking, brushing, or similar mechanical action, but generally can be removed by heating, pressure reduction, or use of a stripping or denuding fluid.

TREATMENT

(a) With respect to the class subject matter, the term is restricted to reversible and nonchemical changes in physical characteristics of the fluid mixture or a separated constituent (e.g., heating, cooling, humidity control, agitating, pressure regulation, etc.). (b) With respect to the media used to perform the gas separation or to a material used to condition the fluid mixture for separation, the term may include chemical preparation, reconditioning, or reaction.

VAPOR

The gaseous state of matter that is liquid or solid under a temperature of 0°C and pressure of 760 mm Hg.

SUBCLASSES

[List of Patents for class 96 subclass 1]    1MAGNETIC SEPARATING MEANS:
 This subclass is indented under the class definition.  Apparatus having means to produce magnetic lines of force in order to separate a constituent or to aid the separation of a constituent from a fluid mixture.
(1) Note. The means may be either a permanent magnet or an electromagnet.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:

95, Gas Separation: Processes,   subclasses 43+ for a process using the selective diffusion of gases through a solid, liquid, or gaseous barrier, such as a semipermeable membrane.
210, Liquid Purification or Separation,   subclasses 96.2 , 257.2, and 321.6+ for apparatus having membranes or dialyzers for separating liquids and subclasses 500.21+ for semipermeable membranes used in the separation of liquids.
215, Bottles and Jars,   subclass 261 for closures for bottles and jars having a barrier permeable to gas and impermeable to liquid.
  
[List of Patents for class 96 subclass 2]    2Electromagnet:
 This subclass is indented under subclass 1.  Apparatus in which the magnetic lines of force are produced by an electric current.
  
[List of Patents for class 96 subclass 3]    3And electric field separation apparatus:
 This subclass is indented under subclass 1.  Apparatus in which means to form an electric field is also used.
  
[List of Patents for class 96 subclass 4]    4APPARATUS FOR SELECTIVE DIFFUSION OF GASES (E.G., SEMIPERMEABLE MEMBRANE, ETC):
 This subclass is indented under the class definition.  Apparatus comprising a solid, liquid, or gaseous barrier which is permeable to one or more gases of a fluid mixture, where the permeation of such gases occurs at differing rates for different gases.

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95, Gas Separation: Processes,   subclasses 43+ for a process using the selective diffusion of gases through a solid, liquid, or gaseous barrier, such as a semipermeable membrane.
210, Liquid Purification or Separation,   subclasses 96.2 , 257.2, and 321.6+ for apparatus having membranes or dialyzers for separating liquids and subclasses 500.21+ for semipermeable membranes used in the separation of liquids.
215, Bottles and Jars,   subclass 261 for closures for bottles and jars having a barrier permeable to gas and impermeable to liquid.
  
[List of Patents for class 96 subclass 5]    5Immobilized liquid membrane:
 This subclass is indented under subclass 4.  Apparatus in which the barrier to gas diffusion is a liquid that is supported or immobilized in or on a porous medium.

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95, Gas Separation: Processes,   subclass 44 for corresponding processes. Patents are not cross-referenced from Class 95, subclass 44 to this subclass based only on disclosure. Therefore, relevant disclosures of gas separation apparatus may be found in the process area.
  
[List of Patents for class 96 subclass 6]    6Membrane to degasify liquid:
 This subclass is indented under subclass 4.  Apparatus which is used to separate gas entrained in a liquid (e.g., by selectively allowing the gas to pass through a barrier, such as a membrane, etc.).

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155+,for apparatus effecting the degasification of a liquid without utilizing the selective diffusion of gases.

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95, Gas Separation: Processes,   subclass 46 for corresponding processes. Patents are not cross-referenced from Class 95, subclass 46 to this subclass based only on disclosure. Therefore, relevant disclosures of gas separation apparatus may be found in the process area.
  
[List of Patents for class 96 subclass 7]    7Plural separate barriers:
 This subclass is indented under subclass 4.  Apparatus comprising two or more distinctly separate barriers (e.g., membrane stack, etc.).
  
[List of Patents for class 96 subclass 8]    8Parallel hollow fibers or cylinders (e.g., bundled, etc.):
 This subclass is indented under subclass 7.  Apparatus comprising a plurality of hollow fibers or cylinders, where the hollow fibers or cylinders are usually small-diameter tubes bundled for parallel gas flow.

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210, Liquid Purification or Separation,   subclass 323.2 for plural distinct tubular separators and subclass 500.23 for hollow fibers or cylindrical semipermeable membranes used in the purifying or separating of liquids.
  
[List of Patents for class 96 subclass 9]    9Barriers connected in series:
 This subclass is indented under subclass 7.  Apparatus in which at least two separate barriers are arranged in series for sequential gas diffusion or separation.
  
[List of Patents for class 96 subclass 10]    10Hollow fiber or cylinder:
 This subclass is indented under subclass 4.  Apparatus in which the gas is diffused through the wall of a hollow fiber or cylinder (e.g., tube, etc.).

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210, Liquid Purification or Separation,   subclass 500.23 for hollow fibers or cylindrical semipermeable membranes used to purify or separate liquids.
  
[List of Patents for class 96 subclass 11]    11Plural layers (e.g., laminated barrier, etc.):
 This subclass is indented under subclass 4.  Apparatus in which the barrier for gas diffusion comprises two or more distinguishable layers.
(1) Note. The layers or laminates may be of similar composition. Where the barrier has been formed by evaporation of one or more components to result in a surface layer depleted in these components and the surface layer is distinguishable from the remaining barrier thickness upon subsequent inspection, the barrier is taken to be composed of at least two distinguishable layers.
(2) Note. Plural layer (or laminated) membranes are often referred to as composites. However, the use of this term as applied to classification in this subclass does not include a single porous barrier material impregnated with a second material unless enough of the second material remains on the exterior of the single porous barrier material to form a distinguishable coating or second layer.
  
[List of Patents for class 96 subclass 12]    12Organic compound containing layer:
 This subclass is indented under subclass 11.  Apparatus in which at least one of the distinguishable layers contains an organic compound.

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210, Liquid Purification or Separation,   subclasses 500.27+ for semipermeable membranes containing an organic compound which are used for purifying or separating liquids.
  
[List of Patents for class 96 subclass 13]    13Ring containing organic compound:
 This subclass is indented under subclass 12.  Apparatus in which at least one of the distinguishable layers contains an organic compound that is cyclic.

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14,for gas diffusion membranes composed of a single layer and having at least one ring containing organic compound.

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210, Liquid Purification or Separation,   subclasses 500.28+ for semipermeable membranes containing a cyclic organic compound which are used for purifying or separating liquids.
  
[List of Patents for class 96 subclass 14]    14Membrane having ring containing organic compound:
 This subclass is indented under subclass 4.  Apparatus in which the barrier has at least one cyclic or ring containing organic compound.

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13,for gas diffusion apparatus with plural layers in which at least one of such layers has a ring containing organic compound.

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210, Liquid Purification or Separation,   subclasses 500.28+ for semipermeable membranes containing a cyclic organic compound which are used for purifying or separating liquids.
  
[List of Patents for class 96 subclass 15]    15ELECTRIC FIELD SEPARATION APPARATUS (E.G., ELECTRICAL PRECIPITATOR, ELECTROSTATIC TYPE, ETC.):
 This subclass is indented under the class definition.  Apparatus in which a constituent of the fluid mixture is separated or precipitated by an electric field or discharge means and includes an electrode arranged to emit, collect, or control movement of charged particles (e.g., electrical or Cottrell precipitators, electrostatic type, etc.); and subcombinations thereof (e.g., electrodes for such apparatus, etc.).
(1) Note. Treatment by an electric field to agglomerate or coalesce constituents of the fluid mixture, where no provision for separation or precipitation, as such, is described, is classified in this subclass if the disclosure relates to gas separation and the ultimate use of the apparatus is for gas separation.
(2) Note. This subclass is the collecting home for means for insuring nonconducting properties of the apparatus, other than mere conductor sheath. Thus, patents claiming such means with only nominal recitation of other features are classified in this subclass rather than the indented subclasses, and other patents with significant disclosures of such means are cross-referenced to this subclass. However, patents concerning insulation and having a disclosure or claims pertaining to electrode retaining or supporting means are not placed in this subclass but are found in subclass 88.
(3) Note. The line between Class 96 and the applicable electrical classes is based on the amount of disclosure. If there is a general utility or multiple purpose disclosure and the claims are not limited to electric field separation apparatus for this class (such as by including precipitator electrodes), then classification is in the appropriate other class.

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3,for electric field separation apparatus combined with magnetic separating means.
88,for insulation features combined with electrode retaining or supporting means.
223+,for gas separation apparatus combined with sterilizing means.

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95, Gas Separation: Processes,   subclasses 57+ for processes involving an electric field for separating fluid mixtures.
174, Electricity: Conductors and Insulators,   subclasses 137+ for insulators.
204, Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy,   appropriate subclasses; particularly 660+ for similar apparatus dealing with the electrical separation of liquids and degasification of liquid aided by electrical discharge involving the conversion of constituents to other compounds. When such chemical conversion is in doubt, placement of electrical apparatus for degasifying liquid is proper for Class 96.
210, Liquid Purification or Separation,   subclass 243 for liquid separation apparatus with electrical insulating or electricity discharging means.
250, Radiant Energy,   subclasses 281+ for processes and apparatus for separating ionized material based on the differing charge-to-mass ratios of such material.
313, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices,   appropriate subclasses for electric space discharge devices, especially subclasses 231.01+ for such discharge devices which have means for passing a fluent material between the discharge electrodes.
315, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices: Systems,   appropriate subclasses for miscellaneous systems for supplying electrical energy to electric space discharge devices of the gas or vapor ionization type.
327, Miscellaneous Active Electrical Nonlinear Devices, Circuits, and Systems,   appropriate subclasses and particularly subclasses 530+ for miscellaneous circuits having a specific source of supply or bias voltage.
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices,   subclasses 227+ for particle charging means and 230+ for ionizing means which are not solely disclosed in connection with the separation of a gaseous fluid mixture.
422, Chemical Apparatus and Process Disinfecting, Deodorizing, Preserving, or Sterilizing,   subclasses 22+ for processes of disinfecting, deodorizing, preserving, or sterilizing using direct contact with electrical or electromagnetic radiation, and subclasses 186.04+ for electrostatic field or electrical discharge apparatus for chemical treatment not combined or associated with gas separation apparatus of the type found in Class 96, subclasses 223+. Also, see the search class note to Class 422 at the beginning of this class.
  
[List of Patents for class 96 subclass 16]    16And radioactive or ultraviolet light ionizer:
 This subclass is indented under subclass 15.  Apparatus having means to ionize a gaseous fluid mixture either by radioactive or ultraviolet light means.

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223+,for nonelectrical separation apparatus combined with sterilizing means.
  
[List of Patents for class 96 subclass 17]    17Electric charge produced by friction (e.g., by gas flow, etc.):
 This subclass is indented under subclass 15.  Apparatus in which electrification of a separator part is accomplished by friction between two solid bodies or by flow of gas across or through a solid.
(1) Note. Placing a member in an electric field to charge such member is not included in this subclass.

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16,for electric field separation apparatus including radioactive or ultraviolet light ionizers.
80+,for electric field separation apparatus with voltage supply means or circuitry.

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55, Gas Separation,   subclass 360 for means to ground a filter and serving to prevent shock hazard, the static electricity having no precipitating or separating function.
310, Electrical Generator or Motor Structure,   subclasses 308+ ; particularly subclass 310 for charge accumulating electrostatic generators of the friction type.
  
[List of Patents for class 96 subclass 18]    18With control means responsive to sensed condition:
 This subclass is indented under subclass 15.  Apparatus in which means are provided to detect an apparatus or a process characteristic or change therein and to control or regulate operation of the apparatus or process based on the detected characteristic or change therein.
(1) Note. In this subclass and the subclasses indented hereunder, a single means may be used both to detect the characteristic or a change therein and to implement an action in the apparatus based upon the detected characteristic or change therein. There must be a positive action made by the apparatus because of the detected characteristic or change therein. An example is a pressure relief valve in which a certain pressure must be reached before the valve opens to relieve pressure differential across the valve. Another example is a thermostat with a bimetallic element in which a certain temperature must be reached before the element is deformed enough to trip a switch, thus implementing a control action in the apparatus as a result of the temperature or change therein. Apparatus in which no positive action is made by the single means as a result of the detected characteristic or change therein is not classified in this subclass or in the subclasses indented hereunder, but is classified below. An example of such means would be an ammeter for recording spikes in electric current to denote sparking events, but without means for implementing any reaction in the apparatus (e.g., to reduce electrode voltage, etc.) as a result of such current spikes.

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25,for electric field separation apparatus with programmed, cyclic, or time responsive control means not responsive to a sensed condition.
26,for electric field separation apparatus with measuring, indicating, signal, or alarm means.
30+,for electric field separation apparatus with cleaner and interrelated shutdown or voltage adjustment means.
80+,for electric field separation apparatus with voltage supply or circuitry which is not specifically used to control operation of the apparatus.
102,