AU2022214311A1

AU2022214311A1 - Cyclic flow apparatus

Info

Publication number: AU2022214311A1
Application number: AU2022214311A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Derek O. Jones; Kelly C. Robertson; Jacob C. Savstrom; Klenton T. WILLIS
Original assignee: Donaldson Co Inc
Current assignee: Donaldson Co Inc
Priority date: 2021-01-29
Filing date: 2022-01-28
Publication date: 2023-07-06
Also published as: JP2024507639A; CA3205831A1; KR20230133323A; WO2022165131A1; US20220244747A1; MX2023008468A; CN117043462A; EP4285022A1; AU2022214311A9

Abstract

The cyclic flow apparatuses consistent with the technology disclosed herein are configured to sealably couple to a liquid flow circuit. The cyclic flow apparatus is configured to change a flow velocity of a liquid through a filter media holder. In various embodiments, the cyclic flow apparatus is configured to change the flow velocity of the liquid through a portion of the liquid flow circuit. The cyclic flow apparatus can be configured to cyclically change the flow velocity of the liquid in the liquid flow circuit through the filter media holder.

Description

CYCLIC FLOW APPARATUS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/143,174, filed 29 January 2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

Technological Field

[0002] The present disclosure is generally related to a flow apparatus. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a cyclic flow apparatus.

Background

[0003] In the development of filtration media, fluid flow test benches are often employed that help test the efficacy of the filtration media. The test bench generally defines a closed liquid flow circuit through which fluid is pumped. The filtration media is typically mounted within the liquid flow circuit of the test bench such that the pumped fluid passes through the filtration media. The fluid is often charged with one or more contaminants upstream of the filtration media, and the effectiveness of the filtration media in separating the contaminants can be quantified based on a variety of parameters including efficiency, pressure drop, collection capacity, and the like.

[0004] Typically the fluid of a test bench is pumped through the liquid flow circuit at a constant flow rate. But in many real-life implementations of the filtration media, the flow rate varies during use. Such flow rate variations impact the performance of the filter media. As such, there is general interest in having the ability to test filter media under variable flow rate conditions. While test benches have been developed that cycle the flow rate of the fluid flow in the test bench, such test benches are relatively large and complex and can be cost prohibitive.

Summary

[0005] The cyclic flow apparatuses described herein are configured to be installed along a liquid flow circuit to achieve a varying flow rate through at least a portion of the liquid flow circuit. The cyclic flow apparatus can be a component of a liquid flow circuit, or it can be a retrofit device that is configured to be installed in an existing liquid flow circuit. In the latter case, the existing liquid flow circuit can be designed to have a constant flow rate, and the cyclic flow apparatus can be a retrofit device that modifies the liquid flow circuit to have a varying flow rate rather than a constant flow rate.

[0006] In some embodiments, the current technology relates to a cyclic flow apparatus. A housing has a first variable volume and a first flow opening. The first flow opening extends to the first variable volume. The housing has a moveable sidewall defining the first variable volume. A first conduit coupling structure is about the first flow opening. A linear actuator is fixed to the moveable sidewall.

[0007] In some such embodiments, the moveable sidewall is a piston. Additionally or alternatively, the linear actuator and the moveable sidewall are configured to change a flow velocity of a liquid in a liquid flow circuit. Additionally or alternatively, the first conduit coupling structure is configured to sealably couple to a liquid flow circuit. Additionally or alternatively, the piston has a media opening defining a flow path in fluid communication with the first variable volume. Additionally or alternatively, the piston comprises a media coupling structure about the media opening. Additionally or alternatively, the piston forms a fluid seal with the housing across the first variable volume. Additionally or alternatively, the first flow opening is a flow inlet and flow outlet. Additionally or alternatively, the first flow opening is a flow inlet and the first flow opening is not a flow outlet. Additionally or alternatively, the housing has a complementary variable volume, where the moveable sidewall defines the complementary variable volume. Additionally or alternatively, the housing has a second flow opening extending to the complementary variable volume. Additionally or alternatively, the cyclic flow apparatus is a retrofit device.

[0008] Some examples of the current technology relate to a cyclic flow apparatus having a housing and a piston. The housing has a flow inlet, a flow outlet, and a cavity extending in an axial direction from the flow inlet to the flow outlet. The piston is disposed across the cavity and forms a seal with the housing. The piston is linearly translatable in the axial direction along the cavity. The piston defines an axially extending media opening in fluid communication with the cavity.

[0009] In some such embodiments, the apparatus has an actuator translatably coupled to the piston. Additionally or alternatively, the actuator is configured to cyclically translate the piston between a first position and a second position in the cavity. Additionally or alternatively, the first position is towards a first end of the cavity and the second position is towards the second end of the cavity. Additionally or alternatively, the piston defines a media coupling structure about the media opening.

[0010] Yet other examples of the current technology relate to a cyclic flow apparatus. A housing has a first variable volume defining a first flow opening and a conduit coupling structure about the first flow opening. The conduit coupling structure is configured to detachably couple to a liquid flow circuit. An actuator is in operative communication with the housing. The actuator is configured to cause the housing to cyclically accumulate liquid in the liquid flow circuit in the first variable volume and release liquid from the first variable volume to the liquid flow circuit. [0011] In some such embodiments, the apparatus has a flow sensor positioned in the first flow opening and a controller coupled to the actuator. The controller is in data communication with the flow sensor. Additionally or alternatively, the housing is a cylinder. Additionally or alternatively, the system has a piston translatably disposed in the cylinder, where the first variable volume is defined by the cylinder and piston. Additionally or alternatively, a complementary variable volume is defined by the cylinder and the piston, where the cylinder defines a second flow opening extending to the complementary variable volume. Additionally or alternatively, the first variable volume is a bladder. Additionally or alternatively, the first flow opening is a flow inlet and flow outlet. Additionally or alternatively, the first flow opening is a flow inlet and the first flow opening is not a flow outlet. Additionally or alternatively, the cyclic flow apparatus is a retrofit device.

[0012] In yet other example embodiments, the current technology relates to a cyclic flow apparatus having a housing defining a first variable volume and a complementary variable volume. The housing has an outer casing having a fixed volume. A bladder is disposed in the casing. The bladder defines the first variable volume. A bladder inlet extends to the first variable volume and a bladder outlet extends from the first variable volume. The complementary variable volume is defined between the bladder and the casing. The casing defines a casing inlet and a casing outlet. A flow control valve is operably coupled to the bladder outlet. An actuator is operably coupled to the flow control valve. The actuator is configured to oscillate the flow control valve between a restricted position and an open position. [0013] In some such embodiments, the bladder inlet and the casing inlet are at opposite axial ends of the housing. Additionally or alternatively, a flow sensor is positioned adjacent the bladder outlet and a controller coupled to the actuator, where the controller is in data communication with the flow sensor. Additionally or alternatively, the apparatus has a first conduit coupling structure about the bladder outlet, a second conduit coupling structure about the casing outlet, a third conduit coupling structure about the bladder inlet, and a fourth conduit coupling structure about the casing inlet, where each conduit coupling structure is configured to be coupled to a liquid flow circuit. Additionally or alternatively, the actuator is configured to cause the bladder to cyclically accumulate and release liquid. Additionally or alternatively, the cyclic flow apparatus is a retrofit device.

[0014] Some embodiments of the current technology relate to a cyclic flow apparatus having a housing defining a first variable volume and a first flow opening extending to the first variable volume. The housing has a moveable sidewall defining the first variable volume. An actuator is operably coupled to the moveable sidewall. A flow sensor is configured to sense a liquid flow velocity. A controller is in data communication with the flow sensor and is in operative communication with the actuator. The controller is configured to operate the actuator to define a liquid flow velocity relative to the flow sensor.

[0015] In some such embodiments, the moveable sidewall includes a piston. Additionally or alternatively, the piston defines an opening and a media coupling structure about the opening. Additionally or alternatively, the flow sensor is disposed on the piston. Additionally or alternatively, the flow sensor is disposed adjacent the first flow opening. Additionally or alternatively, the actuator is a linear actuator. Additionally or alternatively, the actuator is configured to operate a flow control valve. Additionally or alternatively, the housing has a first conduit coupling structure about the first flow opening, where the first conduit coupling structure is configured to sealably couple to a liquid flow circuit. Additionally or alternatively, the first flow opening is a flow inlet and flow outlet. Additionally or alternatively, the first flow opening is a flow inlet and the first flow opening is not a flow outlet. Additionally or alternatively, the housing has a complementary variable volume, where the moveable sidewall defines the complementary variable volume. Additionally or alternatively, the housing has a second flow opening extending to the complementary variable volume. [0016] The above summary is not intended to describe each embodiment or every implementation. Rather, a more complete understanding of illustrative embodiments will become apparent and appreciated by reference to the following Detailed Description of Exemplary Embodiments and claims in view of the accompanying figures of the drawing.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0017] FIG. l is a schematic flow diagram for an example test bench consistent with an example implementation of the current technology.

[0018] FIG. 2 is a schematic flow diagram for another example test bench consistent with another example implementation of the current technology.

[0019] FIG. 3 is schematic cross-sectional view of an example cyclic flow apparatus.

[0020] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another example cyclic flow apparatus.

[0021] FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of yet another example cyclic flow apparatus.

[0022] FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of yet another example cyclic flow apparatus.

[0023] FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternate exemplary variable volume housing.

[0024] FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of yet another example cyclic flow apparatus.

[0025] FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of yet another example cyclic flow apparatus.

[0026] The present technology may be more completely understood and appreciated in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments in connection with the accompanying drawings.

[0027] The figures are rendered primarily for clarity and, as a result, are not necessarily drawn to scale. Moreover, various structure/components, including but not limited to fasteners, electrical components (wiring, cables, etc.), and the like, may be shown diagrammatically or removed from some or all of the views to better illustrate aspects of the depicted embodiments, or where inclusion of such structure/components is not necessary to an understanding of the various exemplary embodiments described herein. The lack of illustration/description of such structure/components in a particular figure is, however, not to be interpreted as limiting the scope of the various embodiments in any way.

Detailed Description

[0028] Cyclic flow apparatuses consistent with the technology disclosed herein can have a variety of different configurations. The cyclic flow apparatus is generally configured to change a flow velocity of a liquid through a filter media holder. In various embodiments, the cyclic flow apparatus is configured to change the flow velocity of the liquid through a portion of the liquid flow circuit. The cyclic flow apparatus can be configured to cyclically change the flow velocity of the liquid in the liquid flow circuit through the filter media holder. Such cycling of the flow velocity through the filter media holder can advantageously provide a media testing environment that provides a closer representation of real-world operational environments of a filter media. “Cyclic flow” is generally defined as a flow rate that fluctuates in a repeating pattern over time.

[0029] The cyclic flow apparatus can be a retrofit device that is configured to sealably couple to an existing liquid flow circuit, or an integral component of a liquid flow circuit. Where the cyclic flow apparatus is a retrofit device, the cyclic flow apparatus is configured to be installed in an existing liquid flow circuit. The existing liquid flow circuit can be configured to have a constant flow rate, and the cyclic flow apparatus can be a retrofit device that modifies the liquid flow circuit to have a varying flow rate rather than a constant flow rate. A “retrofit device” as defined herein is an accessory component that is configured to be added to an existing system to modify the system. In various embodiments, the cyclic flow apparatus is a retrofit device that is configured to modify a constant flow rate liquid flow circuit to exhibit cyclic flow conditions through a portion of the liquid flow circuit.

[0030] FIG. l is a schematic flow diagram for a first example liquid flow circuit 10 consistent with various implementations of the current technology. The liquid flow circuit 10 is consistent with a multi-pass filter media test bench, in various embodiments. The liquid flow circuit 10 generally has an inlet line 12 that extends from a fluid reservoir 20 to a filter media holder 30. The fluid reservoir 20 is generally configured to contain the liquid that passes through the liquid flow circuit 10. The liquid can be water, hydraulic fluid, fuel, and oil, as examples. A contaminant injector 22 is generally in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir 20. The contaminant injector 22 is configured to inject a contaminant into the fluid reservoir 20. In various embodiments, the contaminant injector 22 is configured to inject a contaminant into the fluid reservoir 20 at a continuous rate. The contaminant can be a test dust, for example.

[0031] Various components can be disposed along the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. For example, a pump 40 can be fluidly coupled to the inlet line 12. The pump 40 can be configured to elicit liquid flow around the liquid flow circuit 10. In various embodiments, the pump 40 is configured to elicit liquid flow around the liquid flow circuit 10 at a particular liquid flow rate. In various embodiments the particular liquid flow rate is selectable by a user, such as through a user interface that is in operative communication with the pump 40.

[0032] The filter media holder 30 is generally disposed across the inlet line 12. The filter media holder 30 defines an opening that is a filtration pathway for the liquid in the liquid flow circuit 10. The filter media holder 30 is generally configured to secure filter media about the opening such that the liquid in the liquid flow circuit 10 passes through the filter media. An outlet line 14 extends from the filter media holder 30 to the fluid reservoir 20, where the outlet line 14 is configured to accommodate liquid flow from the filter media holder 30 to the fluid reservoir 20, when the liquid is then cycled through the liquid flow circuit repeatedly until the testing stops. Various additional and alternate components can be disposed along the outlet line 14.

[0033] A pressure sensor 50 is generally configured to sense the differential pressure across the media holder 30. In particular, the pressure sensor 50 can have a first sensor 52 configured to measure the liquid pressure on the upstream side of the media holder 30 and the pressure sensor 50 can have a second sensor 54 configured to measure the liquid pressure on the downstream side of the media holder 30.

According to some testing procedures, testing of a filter media is terminated upon the pressure sensor 50 sensing a threshold differential pressure across the media holder 30 (and, therefore, across the filter media mounted to the media holder 30).

[0034] The liquid flow circuit 10 has an upstream particle counter 60 and a downstream particle counter 62. The upstream particle counter 60 is positioned along the liquid flow circuit 10 upstream of the media holder 30. The downstream particle counter 62 is positioned along the liquid flow circuit 10 downstream of the media holder 30. The particle counters 60, 62 can be consistent with particle counters known in the art.

[0035] A flow sensor 70 is generally positioned along the liquid flow circuit 10 that is configured to monitor the flow rate of the liquid through the liquid flow circuit 10. In some embodiments, the flow sensor 70 is in communication with a user interface to report the flow rate to a user. In some embodiments the flow sensor 70 is in data communication with a controller that is in operative communication with the pump 40 to ensure a constant flow rate is attained. In some such embodiments, the flow sensor 70 can also be in data communication with a user interface to report the flow rate to a user.

[0036] FIG. 2 is a schematic flow diagram for another example test bench consistent with another example implementation of the current technology. The liquid flow circuit 11 is consistent with a single-pass filter media test bench, in various embodiments. The liquid flow circuit 11 generally defines a single-pass flow path 15 that extends between a fluid reservoir 21 and a filter media holder 31. More particularly, the single-pass flow path 15 extends from a recirculation flow path 13 having the fluid reservoir 21 to a drain tank 23 through the filter media holder 31. The single-pass flow path 15 has an inlet line 12 that extends from the recirculation flow path 13 to the filter media holder 31, and an outlet line 14 that extends from the filter media holder 31 to the drain tank 23.

[0037] The fluid reservoir 21 is generally configured to contain the liquid that passes through the single-pass flow path 15. The liquid can be water, hydraulic fluid, fuel, and oil, as examples. In the current example, the liquid contains a contaminant such as test dust, and the liquid-contaminant mixture is recirculated through the recirculation flow path 13 with a recirculation pump 42 to prevent settling of the contaminant in the reservoir 21.

[0038] Various components can be disposed along the single-pass flow path 15. A sample pump 41 can be fluidly coupled to the single-pass flow path 15. The sample pump 41 can be configured to elicit liquid flow through the single-pass flow path 15. In various embodiments, the sample pump 41 is configured to elicit liquid flow through the single-pass flow path at a particular liquid flow rate. In various embodiments the particular liquid flow rate is selectable by a user, such as through a user interface that is in operative communication with the sample pump 41. [0039] The filter media holder 31 is generally disposed across the single-pass flow path 15. The filter media holder 31 defines an opening that is a filtration pathway for the liquid in the single-pass flow path 15. The filter media holder 31 is generally configured to secure filter media about the opening such that the liquid in the singlepass flow path 15 passes through the filter media. The single-pass flow path 15 extends from the filter media holder 31 to the drain tank 23, where the liquid that is filtered by the filter media (on the filter media holder 31) is held.

[0040] A pressure sensor 51 is generally configured to sense the differential pressure across the media holder 31. The pressure sensor 51 can have a configuration similar to that depicted in FIG. 1 where there is a liquid pressure sensor on the upstream side of the media holder 31 and another liquid pressure sensor on the downstream side of the media holder 31. The single-pass flow path 15 can also have an upstream particle counter 61 and a downstream particle counter 63 consistent with particle counters known in the art.

[0041] A flow sensor 71 is generally positioned along the single-pass flow path 15 that is configured to monitor the flow rate of the liquid through the single-pass flow path 15. In some embodiments, the flow sensor 71 is in communication with a user interface to report the flow rate to a user. In some embodiments the flow sensor 71 is in data communication with a controller that is in operative communication with the sample pump 41 to ensure a constant flow rate is attained. The flow sensor 71 can also be in data communication with a user interface to report the flow rate to a user.

[0042] The cyclic flow apparatuses described herein can generally be installed on liquid flow circuits such as that depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2 to enable liquid flow through the liquid flow circuit that has a varying flow rate rather than a constant flow rate.

[0043] FIG. 3 depicts one example schematic cross-sectional view of an example cyclic flow apparatus 100 consistent with various embodiments. The cyclic flow apparatus 100 has a housing 110 defining a first variable volume 116. The housing 110 has a moveable sidewall 124 defining the first variable volume 116. The housing 110 has a first flow opening 112 extending to the first variable volume 116.

[0044] The cyclic flow apparatus 100 is generally configured to change a liquid flow velocity through a media holder 130. The cyclic flow apparatus 100 can be configured to create cyclic liquid flow conditions through the media holder 130. In various embodiments, the cyclic flow apparatus 100 is configured to cycle a liquid flow velocity through the media holder 130.

[0045] The housing 110 generally has a first flow opening 112, a second flow opening 114, and a cavity 111 extending from the first flow opening 112 to the second flow opening 114. The first flow opening 112 and the second flow opening 114 are defined on opposite axial ends of the housing 110. The first flow opening 112 can be a flow inlet in various embodiments. The second flow opening 114 can be a flow outlet in various embodiments. In various embodiments the first flow opening 112 is only a flow inlet and is not a flow outlet.

[0046] The moveable sidewall 124 is a piston 124 that is disposed across the cavity 111. The piston 124 forms a fluid seal with the inner surface of the housing 110. The piston 124 is generally linearly translatable in the axial direction along the cavity 111. As such, the position of the piston 124 within the cavity 111 defines the volume of the first variable volume 116 and the volume of a complementary variable volume 118 on the opposite side of the piston 124. The first flow opening 112 extends to the first variable volume 116. The second flow opening 114 extends to the complementary variable volume 118.

[0047] The piston 124 has a media holder 130 that is generally configured to hold filtration media for testing. The media holder 130 has a media coupling structure 131 that is generally configured to secure filter media to the piston 124. The media coupling structure 131 is configured to create a seal around the edges of the filter media to direct fluid flow through the media. The media coupling structure 131 can be a clamp, for example. The media holder 130 defines a media opening 132 that is an axially extending opening through the piston 124. The media opening 132 is in fluid communication with the cavity 111. The media opening 132 defines a flow path between the first variable volume 116 and the complementary variable volume 118. The media coupling structure 131 generally surrounds the media opening 132 such that filter media coupled to the media coupling structure 131 extends across the media opening 132. The media opening 132 extends from the first variable volume 116 to the complementary variable volume 118.

[0048] In some embodiments the media opening 132 is a plurality of discrete openings through the moveable sidewall 124 that cumulatively define the media opening 132. Such a configuration advantageously provides structural support to the media across the media opening 132. In some other embodiments, a support screen such as a wire mesh screen is coupled to the moveable sidewall 124 across the media opening 132 that is configured to provide support to a filter media. Other configurations can also be used.

[0049] An actuator 120 is generally operably coupled to the moveable sidewall 124. In the current example, the actuator 120 is translatably coupled to the piston 124 via a shaft 122. In various embodiments the actuator 120 is a linear actuator that is fixed to the piston 124. The actuator 120 is configured to actuate linear translation of the piston 124 through the cavity 111. More particularly, the actuator 120 is configured to cyclically translate the piston 124 between a first position and a second position in the cavity 111. The direction and velocity of the piston 124 through the cavity 111 can define the direction, the velocity, or both the direction and the velocity of fluid flow through the media opening 132 and, more particularly, through a filter media that is secured to the media holder 130 of the piston.

[0050] In various implementations, the cyclic flow apparatus 100 is configured to couple to a liquid reservoir (not currently depicted). In various implementations, the cyclic flow apparatus 100 is configured to couple to a liquid flow circuit 10 that may incorporate a liquid reservoir, where only a portion of the liquid flow circuit 10 is currently depicted. While the element number associated with the multi-pass liquid flow circuit 10 described above with reference to FIG. 1 is used in the discussions of cyclic flow apparatuses herein, it will be appreciated that the liquid flow circuit can be consistent with a single-pass liquid flow circuit 11 discussed above with reference to FIG. 2. In some embodiments, the cyclic flow apparatus 100 is integral to the liquid flow circuit 10. However, in some other examples, the cyclic flow apparatus 100 is configured to be coupled to the liquid flow circuit 10. The cyclic flow apparatus 100 has a first conduit coupling structure 113 about the first flow opening 112. The first conduit coupling structure 113 is configured to sealably couple to a flow line, such as the inlet line 12, of the liquid flow circuit 10 such that the first flow opening 112 is in direct fluid communication with the liquid flow circuit 10. In various embodiments, the first conduit coupling structure 113 is configured to detachably couple to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The first conduit coupling structure 113 can use a variety of different fastening mechanisms and combinations of fastening mechanisms as are generally known in the art.

[0051] The cyclic flow apparatus 100 generally has a second conduit coupling structure 115 about the second flow opening 114. The second conduit coupling structure 115 is configured to sealably couple to a flow line, such as an outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10 such that the second flow opening 114 is in direct fluid communication with the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The second conduit coupling structure 115 is configured to detachably couple to the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The second conduit coupling structure 115 can use a variety of different fastening mechanisms and combinations of fastening mechanisms as are generally known in the art.

[0052] In the current example, the cyclic flow apparatus 100 is generally configured to be installed in the liquid flow circuit 10. In some implementations the cyclic flow apparatus 100 is configured to replace the media holder 30 of the liquid flow circuit 10. As such, the media holder 30 of the liquid flow circuit 10 can be removed and the first conduit coupling structure 113 is coupled to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10 and the second conduit coupling structure 115 is coupled to the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. In some other embodiments, the cyclic flow apparatus 100 is configured to be integral with the liquid flow circuit. In some, but not all, such embodiments, the cyclic flow apparatus 100 can omit one or both of the first and second conduit coupling structures 113, 115 where the inlet line 12 and/or the outlet line 14 are integral with the housing 110.

[0053] As discussed above, the liquid flow circuit 10 that is coupled to the cyclic flow apparatus 100 is configured to cycle liquid through the flow circuit at a constant volumetric flow rate. When the moveable sidewall 124 is stationary within the cavity 111, the velocity of the liquid passing through the media opening 132 (or through a filter media coupled to the piston 124 about the media opening) is constant and is equal to the volumetric flow rate divided by the flow area of the media opening 132. When the moveable sidewall 124 is linearly translated through the cavity 111 towards the second flow opening 114, the velocity of the liquid passing through the media opening 132 is decreased by the linear velocity of the moveable sidewall 124. When the moveable sidewall 124 is linearly translated through the cavity 111 towards the first flow opening 112, the velocity of the liquid passing through the media opening 132 is increased by the linear velocity of the moveable sidewall 124. In this way the fluid velocity through the media holder 130 can be varied.

[0054] In some embodiments, the apparatus 100 incorporates a liquid flow sensor that is configured to sense one or both of the fluid flow velocity or fluid flow rate through the media holder 130. In various other embodiments, the apparatus 100 does not incorporate a liquid flow sensor and a processing system 142 can be configured to calculate the liquid flow velocity and/or the flow rate through the media holder 130. Such a calculation is generally based on the flow rate through the liquid flow circuit 10 and the linear velocity of the piston 124, as has been described above. The processing system 142 can obtain the liquid flow circuit 10 flow rate either from data entered by a user through a user interface or data obtained from a flow sensor 70, 71 of the liquid flow circuit 10 discussed above with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. In some such examples, the flow sensor 70, 71 is in data communication with the processing system 142 that is configured to receive flow rate data from the flow sensor 70, 71 of the flow circuit 10, 11 (FIGS. 1 and 2). The processing system 142 is depicted as separate from the controller 140 in FIG. 3, but in some embodiments the processing system 142 is a component of the controller 140. In some embodiments consistent with FIG. 3, the processing system 142 can be a computer, for example, that is in communication with the controller 140.

[0055] In some embodiments, the controller 140 can be in operative communication with the actuator 120 such that the controller 140 is configured to operate the actuator (thereby translating the moveable sidewall 124) to define liquid flow velocity conditions through the media holder 130. The liquid flow velocity conditions can be specified by a user to the system through a user interface such a computer, dials, keypad, touchscreen, or the like. The liquid flow velocity conditions can be consistent with cyclic flow conditions. The processing system 142 can be configured to determine the cycle speed of the piston to achieve the specified liquid flow velocity conditions and communicate operational instructions to the controller 140, which is configured to send control signals to the actuator 120. In various embodiments the actuator 120 is configured to actuate cyclic flow conditions in response to receiving control signals from the controller 140.

[0056] In some embodiments, removing the media holder 30, 31 in the liquid flow circuit 10 would also result in removal of the pressure sensor 50, 51 (FIGS. 1 and 2). As such, the cyclic flow apparatus 100 can incorporate a first pressure sensor 136 disposed on the upstream side of the moveable sidewall 124 of the apparatus 100 and a second pressure sensor 138 is disposed on a second side of the moveable sidewall 124 such that the differential pressure can be calculated across the filter media holder 130. In some embodiments, the system can be configured to calculate the liquid flow velocity through the media holder 130 based on the differential pressure data. [0057] There may be various modifications to the design depicted in FIG. 3 that are consistent with the technology disclosed herein. While the current design has a single flow inlet 112 and a single flow outlet 114, in some embodiments there can be multiple inlets 112 and multiple outlets 114 to the housing 110. The multiple inlets 112 and multiple outlets 114 can extend to the housing 110 from multiple directions. Multiple inlets extending to and from the housing may advantageously increase the speed at which the fluid flow velocity can be changed, for example. Further, in some embodiments the inlets and the outlets can extend from the housing in the axial direction rather than the transverse direction as depicted.

[0058] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another example cyclic flow apparatus 200 consistent with the technology disclosed herein. The cyclic flow apparatus 200 has a housing 210 defining a first variable volume 216. The housing 210 has a moveable sidewall 224 defining the first variable volume 216. The housing 210 has a first flow opening 212 extending to the first variable volume 216. A conduit coupling structure 213 is disposed about the first flow opening 212. The conduit coupling structure 213 is configured to sealably couple to a liquid flow circuit 10 and can have configurations similar to conduit coupling structures discussed above. In the current example, the conduit coupling structure 213 is configured to couple to an inlet line 12 of a liquid flow circuit 10. However, it will be appreciated that in some implementations, the conduit coupling structure 213 is configured to couple to an outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10 and will operate consistently with this description. In some other embodiments, the cyclic flow apparatus 200 is configured to be integral with the liquid flow circuit 10. In some, but not all, such embodiments, the cyclic flow apparatus 200 may omit the conduit coupling structure 213 where the liquid flow circuit 10 is integral with the housing 110.

[0059] The cyclic flow apparatus 200 is configured to change a liquid flow velocity through a media holder 30. The cyclic flow apparatus 200 is generally configured to modify fluid flow through an inlet line 12 (or an outlet line) of a liquid flow circuit 10 to adjust the liquid flow velocity through the media holder 30 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The cyclic flow apparatus 200 can be configured to create cyclic flow conditions through the media holder 30. In various embodiments, the cyclic flow apparatus 200 is configured to cycle a liquid flow velocity through the media holder 30. In the current example, the media holder 30 is not defined by the cyclic flow apparatus 200. Rather, here the media holder 30 is a component of the liquid flow circuit 10 (only a portion of which is currently depicted) that the cyclic flow apparatus 200 is configured to couple to.

[0060] In the current example, the cyclic flow apparatus 200 can operate as an accumulator. The cyclic flow apparatus 200 is configured to be fluidly coupled to the liquid flow circuit 10 upstream of the media holder 30. In various embodiments, the cyclic flow apparatus 200 is configured cyclically accumulate liquid from the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10 in the housing 210 (specifically, the first variable volume 216) and release liquid from the housing 210 (e.g., the first variable volume 216) to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. After passing through the media holder 30, liquid passes through an outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10.

[0061] In the current example, the cyclic flow apparatus 200 does not couple to the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10, but in some other embodiments the cyclic flow apparatus 200 is configured to couple to the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. In such embodiments, the cyclic flow apparatus 200 is configured cyclically accumulate liquid from the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10 in the housing 210 and release liquid from the housing 210 to the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. In such an implementation, when the liquid is released from the housing 210 the flow rate through the media holder 30 generally decreases and when liquid accumulates in housing 210 the flow rate through the media holder 30 increases.

[0062] The housing 210 has the first flow opening 212 and a cavity 211 extending from the first flow opening 212. The cavity 211 extends in an axial direction from the first flow opening 212 towards an opposite axial end 202 of the housing 210. In the current example, the first flow opening 212 is a flow inlet, meaning that liquid enters the housing through the first flow opening 212. In the current example, the first flow opening 212 is also a flow outlet, meaning that liquid exits the housing 210 through the first flow opening 212. The first flow opening 212 extends to the first variable volume 216.

[0063] The moveable sidewall 224 is a piston 224 that is disposed across the cavity 211. The piston 224 forms a fluid seal with the inner surface of the housing 210. The piston 224 is linearly translatable in the axial direction along the cavity 211. As such, the position of the piston 224 within the cavity 211 defines the volume of the first variable volume 216. A complementary variable volume 218 is defined on the opposite side of the piston 224 but, unlike the previous embodiment, here the complementary variable volume 218 does not receive liquid from the liquid flow circuit 10. In further contrast with the previous embodiment, the piston 224 does not define a media holder. Rather, the media holder 30 is a component of the liquid flow circuit 10.

[0064] An actuator 220 is generally operably coupled to the moveable sidewall 224. In the current example, the actuator 220 is translatably coupled to the piston 224 via a shaft 222. In various embodiments the actuator 220 is a linear actuator that is fixed to the piston 224. The actuator 220 is configured to actuate linear translation of the piston 224 through the cavity 211. More particularly, the actuator 220 is configured to cyclically translate the piston 224 between a first position and a second position in the cavity 211. The direction and velocity of the piston 224 through the cavity 211 is related to the velocity of fluid flow through the media holder 30 in the liquid flow circuit 10. The actuator 220 and the moveable sidewall 224 are configured to change a flow velocity of a liquid in the liquid flow circuit 10.

[0065] More particularly, the cyclic flow apparatus 200 is configured to fluidly couple to a liquid flow circuit 10 that cycles liquid through at a constant volumetric flow rate. When the moveable sidewall 224 is stationary within the cavity 211, the velocity of the liquid passing through the media holder 30 (or through a filter media coupled to the media holder about a media opening in the media holder) is constant and is equal to the volumetric flow rate divided by the flow area of the opening in the media holder 30. When the moveable sidewall 224 is linearly translated through the cavity 211 away from the first flow opening 212, liquid is diverted from the liquid flow circuit 10 to the first variable volume 216. As such, the volumetric flow rate towards the media holder 30 decreases by the volumetric flow rate of liquid moving into the first variable volume 216 of the housing 210, which decreases the velocity of the liquid passing through the media holder 30. When the moveable sidewall 224 is linearly translated through the cavity 211 towards the first flow opening 212, liquid is released from the first variable volume 216 to the liquid flow circuit 10. As a result, the volumetric flow rate through the media holder 30 increases by the volumetric flow rate of liquid leaving the housing 210. In this way the fluid velocity through a sample filter media secured across the media holder 30 can be varied.

[0066] In some embodiments, the cyclic flow apparatus 200 has a flow sensor 234 that is configured to sense a liquid flow velocity. For example, a flow sensor 234 can be coupled to the housing 210 adjacent to the first flow opening 212 to sense the liquid flow velocity through the first flow opening 212. In some other embodiments the flow sensor 234 of the apparatus 200 can be coupled to the media holder 30 in the liquid flow circuit 10. In embodiments incorporating a flow sensor 234, the flow sensor 234 can be in communication with a user interface to record and report the liquid flow velocity to a user, for example. In various examples, the flow sensor 234 is in data communication with a controller 240. The controller 240 can be in operative communication with the actuator 220 such that the controller 240 is configured to operate the actuator (thereby translating the moveable sidewall 224) to define a liquid flow velocity relative to the flow sensor and, more particularly, through the media holder 30. In various embodiments the cyclic flow apparatus 200 does not have a flow sensor 234. In some embodiments the flow sensor can be a component of the liquid flow circuit 10, as discussed above. In some embodiments the system is configured to calculate the flow rate through the media holder 30 based on the liquid flow rate through the liquid flow circuit (either determined by a flow sensor or entered by a user) combined with the liquid flow rate to or from the apparatus 200 based on the expansion or contraction of the first variable volume 216 in response to the displacement of the piston 224.

[0067] In the current example configuration, the cyclic flow apparatus 200 does not replace any components of the liquid flow circuit 10 (such as with the example of FIG. 3, which is configured to replace the media holder and possibly other components). Rather, in the current example, the cyclic flow apparatus 200 is configured to be added to the liquid flow circuit 10.

[0068] FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of yet another example cyclic flow apparatus 300. The cyclic flow apparatus 300 is similar to that described above with reference to FIG. 4 except that in the current example, the first variable volume 316 of the housing 310 is configured to be in fluid communication with a liquid flow circuit 10 upstream of the media holder 30 and the complementary variable volume 318 of the housing 310 is configured to be in fluid communication with the liquid flow circuit 10 downstream of the media holder 30. The first variable volume 316 of the housing 310 is configured to be in fluid communication with an inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10 and the complementary variable volume 318 of the housing 310 is configured to be in fluid communication with an outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The cyclic flow apparatus 300 can be described as being in parallel with the media holder 30. Such a configuration advantageously facilitates modification or cycling of the velocity of fluid through the media holder 30 without significantly varying the volumetric flow through the liquid circuit upstream and downstream of the cyclic flow apparatus 300. For example, as the first variable volume 316 increases to reduce the volume of flow through the media holder 30, the complementary variable volume 318 decreases to release a corresponding volume of liquid.

[0069] The housing 310 generally has a first flow opening 312, a second flow opening 314, and a cavity 311 extending from the first flow opening 312 to the second flow opening 314. The cyclic flow apparatus 300 has a housing 310 defining a first variable volume 316. The housing 310 has a moveable sidewall 324 defining the first variable volume 316 and a complementary variable volume 318. The housing 310 has a first flow opening 312 extending to the first variable volume 316 and a second flow opening 314 extending to the complementary variable volume 318. The first flow opening 312 and the second flow opening 314 are defined on opposite axial ends of the housing 310. In the current example, each of the first flow opening 312 and the second flow opening 314 operate as a flow inlet and a flow outlet to the housing 310. [0070] The cyclic flow apparatus 300 is generally configured to change a liquid flow velocity through a media holder 30. The cyclic flow apparatus 300 can be configured to create cyclic liquid flow conditions through the media holder 30. In various embodiments, the cyclic flow apparatus 300 is configured to cycle a liquid flow velocity through the media coupling structure 30. Similar to the example discussed with respect to FIG. 4, in the current example the media holder 30 is not a component of the cyclic flow apparatus 300. Rather, the media holder 30 is a component of the liquid flow circuit 10 that the cyclic flow apparatus 300 is configured to couple to.

[0071] The moveable sidewall 324 is a piston 324 that is disposed across the cavity 311. The piston 324 forms a fluid seal with the inner surface of the housing 310. The piston 324 is generally linearly translatable in the axial direction along the cavity 311. As such, the position of the piston 324 within the cavity 311 defines the volume of the first variable volume 316 and the volume of a complementary variable volume 318 on the opposite side of the piston 324.

[0072] An actuator 320 is translatably coupled to the moveable sidewall 324. In the current example, the actuator 320 is fixed to the piston 324 via a shaft 322. In various embodiments the actuator 320 is a linear actuator that is fixed to the piston 324. The actuator 320 is configured to actuate linear translation of the piston 324 through the cavity 311. More particularly, the actuator 320 is configured to cyclically translate the piston 324 between a first position and a second position in the cavity 311. The direction and velocity of the piston 324 through the cavity 311 can define the velocity of fluid flow through the media holder 30 and, more particularly, through a filter media that is secured to the media holder 30. The actuator 320 can be configured to cause the housing to cyclically accumulate liquid from the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10 in the first variable volume 316 and release liquid from the first variable volume 316 to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10.

[0073] The cyclic flow apparatus 300 generally has a first conduit coupling structure 313 about the first flow opening 312 that is configured to sealably couple to the liquid flow circuit 10 such that the first flow opening 312 is in direct fluid communication with the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. In various embodiments, the first conduit coupling structure 313 is configured to detachably couple to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The cyclic flow apparatus 300 also has a second conduit coupling structure 315 about the second flow opening 314 that is configured to sealably couple to the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit such that the second flow opening 314 is in direct fluid communication with the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The second conduit coupling structure 315 is configured to detachably couple to the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. In some other embodiments, the cyclic flow apparatus 300 is configured to be integral with the liquid flow circuit 10. In some, but not all, such embodiments the cyclic flow apparatus 300 can omit one or both of the first and second conduit coupling structures 313, 315 where the inlet line 12 and/or the outlet line 14 are integral with the housing 110.

[0074] As has been discussed, the liquid flow circuit 10 that is coupled to the cyclic flow apparatus 300 is generally configured to cycle liquid through the flow circuit at a constant volumetric flow rate. When the moveable sidewall 324 is stationary within the cavity 311, the velocity of the liquid passing through the opening of the media holder 30 (or through a filter media coupled to the media holder) is constant and is equal to the volumetric flow rate divided by the flow area of the opening in the media holder 30. When the moveable sidewall 324 is linearly translated through the cavity 311 away from the first flow opening 312, liquid from the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10 accumulates in the first variable volume 316. The volumetric flow rate through the inlet line 12 decreases by the volumetric flow rate of liquid into the first variable volume 316 of the housing 310, which decreases the velocity of the liquid passing through the media holder 30. At the same time, liquid within the complementary variable volume 318 is released in the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10.

[0075] When the moveable sidewall 324 is linearly translated through the cavity 311 towards the first flow opening 312, liquid from the first variable volume 316 of the housing 310 is released to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The volumetric flow rate through the inlet line 12 increases by the volumetric flow rate of liquid leaving the first variable volume 316 of the housing 310, which increases the velocity of liquid passing through the media holder 30. At the same time, the complementary variable volume 318 accumulates liquid from the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The volumetric flow rate through the outlet line 14 correspondingly decreases by the volumetric flow rate of liquid entering the complementary variable volume 318 of the housing 310.

[0076] In the above-described way the fluid velocity through a sample filter media secured across the media holder 30 can be cyclically varied.

[0077] As has been discussed above, the cyclic flow apparatus 300 can have a flow sensor 334 that is configured to sense a liquid flow velocity. The flow sensor 334 can be configured to sense the liquid flow velocity through the first flow opening 312 or elsewhere, as has been described above. The flow sensor 334 can be in communication with a user interface, a controller 340, or both a user interface and the controller 340. The controller 340 can be in operative communication with the actuator 320 as has been described above.

[0078] FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of yet another example cyclic flow apparatus. Similar to the example discussed above with reference to FIG. 5, here a first variable volume 416 of a housing 410 is configured to be in fluid communication with a liquid flow circuit 10 upstream of the media holder 30 and a complementary variable volume 418 of the housing 410 is configured to be in fluid communication with the liquid flow circuit 10 downstream of the media holder 30. In the current example, however, the first variable volume 416 of the housing 410 is configured to be installed in-line with the inlet line 12 of a liquid flow circuit 10 and the complementary variable volume 418 of the housing 410 is in fluid communication with the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. More particularly, the complementary variable volume 418 of the housing 410 feeds into the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. This configuration may advantageously facilitate modification or cycling of the velocity of fluid through the media holder 30 without varying the volumetric flow through the liquid circuit upstream and downstream of the cyclic flow apparatus 400.

[0079] The housing 410 generally has a first flow opening 412, a second flow opening 414, and a cavity 411 extending from the first flow opening 412 to the second flow opening 414. The housing 410 of the cyclic flow apparatus 400 defines the first variable volume 416 and the complementary variable volume 418. The housing 410 has a moveable sidewall 424 defining the first variable volume 416 and the complementary variable volume 418. The housing 410 has a first flow opening 412 extending to the first variable volume 416 and a second flow opening 414 extending to the complementary variable volume 418. The first flow opening 412 and the second flow opening 414 are defined on opposite axial ends of the housing 410. In the current example, the first flow opening 412 operates as a flow outlet to the housing 410. The first flow opening 412 is not a flow inlet. The second flow opening 414 operates as a flow inlet and a flow outlet to the housing 410.

[0080] A first conduit coupling structure 413 is disposed about the first flow opening 412 that is configured to sealably couple to the liquid flow circuit 10 such that the first flow opening 412 is in direct fluid communication with the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. In various embodiments, the first conduit coupling structure 413 is configured to detachably couple to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. A second conduit coupling structure 415 is disposed about the second flow opening 414 that is configured to sealably couple to the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit such that the second flow opening 414 is in direct fluid communication with the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The second conduit coupling structure 415 is configured to detachably couple to the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10.

[0081] Similar to some previous examples, here the moveable sidewall 424 is a piston 424 that is disposed across the cavity 411 that defines the first variable volume 416 and the complementary variable volume 418 of the housing 410. The piston 424 forms a fluid seal with the inner surface of the housing 410. The piston 424 is generally linearly translatable in the axial direction along the cavity 411. As such, the position of the piston 424 within the cavity 411 defines the volume of the first variable volume 416 and the volume of the complementary variable volume 418 on the opposite side of the piston 424.

[0082] An actuator 420 is translatably coupled to the piston 424 via a shaft 422. In various embodiments the actuator 420 is a linear actuator that is fixed to the piston 424. The actuator 420 is configured to actuate linear translation of the piston 424 through the cavity 411. More particularly, the actuator 420 is configured to cyclically translate the piston 424 between a first position and a second position in the cavity 411. The direction and velocity of the piston 424 through the cavity 411 can define the velocity of fluid flow through the media holder 30 and, more particularly, through a filter media that is secured to the media holder 30. The actuator 420 can be configured to cause the housing 410 to cyclically accumulate liquid from the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10 in the first variable volume 416 and release liquid from the first variable volume 416 to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10.

[0083] Unlike previous examples, in the current example, the housing 410 has a third flow opening 419 that is configured to be fluidly coupled to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The third flow opening 419 is configured to be positioned upstream of the first flow opening 412 along the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. A third conduit coupling structure 417 about the third flow opening 419 is configured to sealably couple to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The third conduit coupling structure 417 can be consistent with other conduit coupling structures described herein. It should be noted that, similar to examples described above, one or more of the conduit coupling structures 413, 415, 417, can be omitted in some embodiments where the cyclic flow apparatus is integral with the fluid flow circuit 10.

[0084] The first variable volume 416 is configured to fluidly couple the inlet line 12 and the media holder 30. The first flow opening 412 and the third flow opening 419 are in direct fluid communication with the first variable volume 416. In particular, in the current example, the piston 424 and the shaft 422 define a liquid conduit 426 that fluidly couples the third flow opening 419 and the first variable volume 416. In this example, the liquid conduit 426 passes through the complementary variable volume 418 but is fluidly isolated from the complementary variable volume 418. In operation, the liquid flow circuit 10 can be configured to direct liquid flow through the liquid conduit 426 at a constant volumetric flow rate. [0085] As with previous embodiments described, the cyclic flow apparatus 400 is configured to change the liquid flow velocity through a media holder 30. The cyclic flow apparatus 400 can be configured to create cyclic liquid flow conditions through the media holder 30. In various embodiments, the cyclic flow apparatus 400 is configured to cycle a liquid flow velocity through the media coupling structure 30. [0086] As has been described above, when the moveable sidewall 424 is stationary within the cavity 411, the velocity of the liquid passing through the media holder 30 (or through a filter media coupled to the media holder 30) is constant and is equal to the volumetric flow rate of the liquid flow circuit 10 divided by the flow area of the opening in the media holder 30. When the moveable sidewall 424 is linearly translated through the cavity 411 away from the first flow opening 412, the volumetric flow rate decreases by the volumetric flow rate of liquid into the first variable volume 416, which decreases the velocity of the liquid passing through the media holder 30. When the moveable sidewall 424 is linearly translated through the cavity 411 towards the first flow opening 412, the volumetric flow rate through the first flow opening 412 increases by the volumetric flow rate of liquid pushed out from the first variable volume 416 by the piston, which increases the velocity of liquid passing through the media holder 30.

[0087] In various embodiments, a flexible hose can fluidly couple the liquid conduit 426 of the shaft 422 and the inlet line 12 to accommodate linear translation of the piston 424 (and, therefore, the shaft 422).

[0088] As has been discussed above, the cyclic flow apparatus 400 can have a flow sensor 434 that is configured to sense a liquid flow velocity. The flow sensor 434 can be configured to sense the liquid flow velocity through the first flow opening 412 or elsewhere, as has been described above. The flow sensor 434 can be in communication with a user interface, a controller 440, or both a user interface and the controller 440. The controller 440 can be in operative communication with the actuator 420 as has been described above.

[0089] While in the current example the apparatus 400 has the first variable volume 416 that is coupled to the inlet line 12 immediately upstream of the media holder 30, in some other embodiments the first variable volume 416 is coupled to the outlet line 14 downstream of the media holder 30. In such a configuration, the first variable volume 416 of a housing 410 is configured to be in fluid communication with a liquid flow circuit 10 downstream of the media holder 30 and the complementary variable volume 418 of the housing 410 is configured to be in fluid communication with the liquid flow circuit 10 along the inlet line 12 upstream of the media holder 30. In such an example the first variable volume 416 of the housing 410 can be configured to be installed in-line with the outlet line 14 of a liquid flow circuit 10 and the complementary variable volume 418 of the housing 410 can be configured to feed into the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10.

[0090] It is noted that in embodiments depicted and described above, displacement of a first volume of liquid from the first variable volume by the piston results in an opposite displacement of a corresponding volume of liquid from the complementary variable volume, where the corresponding volume is less than the first volume of liquid. The reason for this is that the shaft reduces the volume of the complementary variable volume compared to the first variable volume. FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternate exemplary variable volume housing 510 consistent with some embodiments, where the housing 510 configuration advantageously equalizes the volume per unit length of the first variable volume 516 and the complementary variable volume 518. The housing 510 can be substituted for other housings disclosed in the present application and can be constructed to define openings and flow paths consistent with embodiments already disclosed.

[0091] The housing 510 has a first end 502 and a second end 504 and a fluid flow passageway 511 extending axially from the first end 502 to the second end 504. A moveable sidewall 524 is disposed in the fluid flow passageway 511. A first variable volume 516 and a complementary variable volume 518 are defined on opposite sides of the moveable sidewall 524 within the housing 510. The moveable sidewall 524 is a piston 524. A first shaft 522 is configured to couple the piston 524 to an actuator (not currently depicted). The first shaft 522 extends through the second end 504 of the housing 510 and through the complementary variable volume 518 in the axial direction. A second shaft 526 is coupled to the piston 524 opposite the first shaft 522. The second shaft 526 extends through the first end 502 of the housing 510 and through the first variable volume 516. The cross-sectional area of the first shaft 522 and the cross-sectional area of the second shaft 526 are equal in various embodiments, where the cross-sectional areas are orthogonal to the axial extension of the housing 510.

[0092] FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of yet another example cyclic flow apparatus 600 consistent with various embodiments. The cyclic flow apparatus 600 is configured to be coupled to a liquid flow circuit 10. The cyclic flow apparatus 600 has a housing 610 defining a first flow opening 612 and a first conduit coupling structure 613 about the first flow opening 612. The first conduit coupling structure 613 is configured to detachably couple to a liquid flow circuit 10. An actuator 620 is in operative communication with the housing 610. The actuator 620 is configured to cyclically accumulate liquid in the liquid flow circuit 10 to the housing 610 (and, in particular, the first variable volume 616) and release liquid from the housing 610 (and, in particular, the first variable volume 616) to the liquid flow circuit 10. In some embodiments, a flow sensor 634 is positioned adjacent to the first flow opening 612. In particular, here the flow sensor 634 is positioned adjacent to a bladder outlet 612 (where the bladder is described in more detail below). The flow sensor 634 can be configured to sense the liquid flow velocity through the first flow opening 612 or elsewhere, as has been described above. The flow sensor 634 can be in communication with a user interface, a controller 640, or both a user interface and the controller 640. The controller 640 can be in operative communication with the actuator 620 and in data communication with the flow sensor 634 to change the flow velocity of liquid through the first flow opening 612.

[0093] In the current example, the housing 610 defines a cavity 611 having a first variable volume 616 and a complementary variable volume 618. The first variable volume 616 is configured to be coupled in-line with an inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The first variable volume 616 is in a series between the inlet line 12 and a media holder 30. As such, the first variable volume 616 has the first conduit coupling structure 613 that is configured to couple to the liquid flow circuit 10 upstream of a media holder 30 and a second conduit coupling structure 617 about a second flow opening 619 that is configured to couple to the liquid flow circuit 10 upstream of the first conduit coupling structure 613.

[0094] The complementary variable volume 618 is configured to be coupled inline with an outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The complementary variable volume 618 is in a series between the media holder 30 and the outlet line 14. As such, the housing 610 has a third conduit coupling structure 615 about a third flow opening 614 in communication with the complementary variable volume 618. The third conduit coupling structure 615 is configured to couple to the liquid flow circuit 10 downstream of the media holder 30. The housing 610 has a fourth conduit coupling structure 621 about a fourth flow opening 623 in communication with the complementary variable volume 618. The fourth conduit coupling structure 621 is configured to couple to the liquid flow circuit 10 upstream of the third conduit coupling structure 615. Similar to examples described above, one or more of the conduit coupling structures 613, 615, 617, 621 can be omitted in some embodiments where the cyclic flow apparatus is integral with the fluid flow circuit 10.

[0095] Similar to other embodiments described herein, the housing 610 has a moveable sidewall 624 that defines the first variable volume 616. However, unlike previous examples, in the current example, the moveable sidewall 624 is a bladder 624. The bladder 624 is generally constructed of a hollow, flexible material such as an elastomeric material such as rubber. In some other embodiments the moveable sidewall can be a bellows having collapsible and expandable sidewalls. The first flow opening 612 of the bladder 624 can be referred to as the bladder outlet 612. The second flow opening 619 of the bladder 624 can be referred to as the bladder inlet 619. The bladder outlet 612 extends from the first variable volume 616 and the bladder inlet 619 extends to the first variable volume 616.

[0096] In the current example, the housing 610 has an outer casing 644 that contains the bladder 624. The outer casing 644 is generally rigid to define a fixed volume. The complementary variable volume 618 is defined by the volume between the bladder 624 and an inner surface of the outer casing 644. Such a configuration may advantageously allow for liquid accumulated by the first variable volume 616 to displace liquid accumulated by the complementary variable volume 618. The third flow opening 614 and the fourth flow opening 623 are defined by the outer casing 644. The third flow opening 614 can be referred to as the casing outlet 614 and the fourth flow opening 623 can be referred to as the casing inlet 623. In the current configuration, the casing inlet 623 and the bladder inlet 619 are on opposite axial ends of the housing 610. Similarly, the casing outlet 614 and the bladder outlet 612 are on opposite axial ends of the housing 610.

[0097] In the current example, the actuator 620 is operably coupled to the moveable sidewall 624. In particular, a flow control valve 636 is coupled to the bladder 624 across the bladder outlet 612 and the actuator 620 is operably coupled to the flow control valve 636. The actuator 620 is configured to selectively oscillate the valve 636 between a restricted position and an open position to reduce and increase the flow rate of liquid through the first flow opening 612 and, therefore, reduce and increase the flow rate of liquid through the media holder 30. Reducing the flow rate of liquid through the first flow opening 612 results in the bladder 624 retaining liquid from the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10 and the bladder 624 expanding to accommodate the increased volume of liquid in the bladder. Increasing the flow rate of liquid through the first flow opening 612 results in the bladder 624 releasing liquid into the liquid flow circuit 10 and contracting around the decreasing volume on liquid within the bladder 624.

[0098] FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of yet another example cyclic flow apparatus. Similar to the example discussed above with reference to FIG. 8, here a first variable volume 716 of a housing 710 is configured to be in-line with an inlet line 12 of a liquid flow circuit 10 and a complementary variable volume 718 of the housing 710 is configured to be in fluid communication with an outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. Configuring both the first variable volume 716 and the complementary variable volume 718 to be in-line with the flow lines in a liquid flow circuit may advantageously allow for constant fluid flow through the volumes, reducing accumulation or settling of particles in the volumes. In the current example the first variable volume 716 of the housing 710 is configured to be installed in-line with the inlet line 12 of a liquid flow circuit 10 and the complementary variable volume 718 of the housing 710 is in fluid communication with the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. This configuration advantageously facilitates modification or cycling of the velocity of fluid through the media holder 30 without varying the volumetric flow through the liquid flow circuit 10 upstream and downstream of the cyclic flow apparatus 700.

[0099] The housing 710 generally has a first flow opening 712, a second flow opening 714, and a cavity 711 extending from the first flow opening 712 to the second flow opening 714. The housing 710 of the cyclic flow apparatus 700 defines the first variable volume 716 and the complementary variable volume 718. The housing 710 has a moveable sidewall 724 defining the first variable volume 716 and the complementary variable volume 718. The housing 710 has a first flow opening 712 extending to the first variable volume 716 and a second flow opening 714 extending to the complementary variable volume 718. The first flow opening 712 and the second flow opening 714 are defined on opposite axial ends of the housing 710. In the current example, the first flow opening 712 operates as a flow outlet to the first variable volume 716 of the housing 710. The first flow opening 712 is not a flow inlet. The second flow opening 714 operates as a flow outlet to the complementary variable volume 718 of the housing 710.

[00100] A first conduit coupling structure 713 is disposed about the first flow opening 712 that is configured to sealably couple to the liquid flow circuit 10 such that the first flow opening 712 is in direct fluid communication with the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. In various embodiments, the first conduit coupling structure 713 is configured to detachably couple to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. A second conduit coupling structure 715 is disposed about the second flow opening 714 that is configured to sealably couple to the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit such that the second flow opening 714 is in direct fluid communication with the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The second conduit coupling structure 715 is configured to detachably couple to the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10.

[00101] The housing 710 has a third flow opening 719 that is configured to be fluidly coupled to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The first flow opening 712 and the third flow opening 719 are in direct fluid communication with the first variable volume 716. The third flow opening 719 is configured to be upstream of the first flow opening 712 along the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The third flow opening 719 operates as an inlet of the first variable volume 716. A third conduit coupling structure 717 about the third flow opening 719 is configured to sealably couple to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The third conduit coupling structure 717 can be consistent with other conduit coupling structures described herein.

[00102] The housing 710 has a fourth flow opening 723 that is configured to be fluidly coupled to the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The fourth flow opening 723 is configured to be upstream of the second flow opening 714 along the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The second flow opening 714 and the fourth opening 723 are in direct fluid communication with the complementary variable volume 718. The fourth flow opening 723 operates as an inlet of the complementary variable volume 718. A fourth conduit coupling structure 721 about the fourth flow opening 723 is configured to sealably couple to the outlet line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The fourth conduit coupling structure 721 can be consistent with other conduit coupling structures described herein. Similar to examples described above, one or more of the conduit coupling structures 713, 715, 717, 721 can be omitted in some embodiments where the cyclic flow apparatus is integral with the fluid flow circuit 10.

[00103] Similar to some previous examples, here the moveable sidewall 724 is a piston 724 that is disposed across the fluid passageway 711 that defines the first variable volume 716 and the complementary variable volume 718 of the housing 710. The piston 724 forms a fluid seal with the inner surface of the housing 710. The piston 724 is generally linearly translatable in the axial direction along the cavity 711. As such, the position of the piston 724 within the cavity 711 defines the volume of the first variable volume 716 and the volume of the complementary variable volume 718 on the opposite side of the piston 724.

[00104] An actuator 720 is translatably coupled to the piston 724 via a shaft 722. In various embodiments the actuator 720 is a linear actuator that is fixed to the piston 724. The actuator 720 is configured to actuate linear translation of the piston 724 through the cavity 711. More particularly, the actuator 720 is configured to cyclically translate the piston 724 between a first position and a second position in the cavity 711. The direction and velocity of the piston 724 through the cavity 711 can define the velocity of fluid flow through the media holder 30 and, more particularly, through a filter media that is secured to the media holder 30.

[00105] As with previous embodiments described, the cyclic flow apparatus 700 is configured to change the liquid flow velocity through a media holder 30. The cyclic flow apparatus 700 can be configured to create cyclic liquid flow conditions through the media holder 30. In various embodiments, the cyclic flow apparatus 700 is configured to cycle a liquid flow velocity through a media coupling structure of the media holder 30.

[00106] In various embodiments, the liquid flow circuit 10 that is coupled to the cyclic flow apparatus 700 is configured to cycle liquid through the flow circuit at a constant volumetric flow rate. As such, when the moveable sidewall 724 is stationary within the cavity 711, the velocity of the liquid passing through the media holder 30 (or through a filter media coupled to the media holder 30) is constant and is equal to the volumetric flow rate divided by the flow area of the opening in the media holder 30. When the moveable sidewall 724 is linearly translated through the cavity 711 away from the first flow opening 712, the volumetric flow rate through the first flow opening 712 decreases by the volumetric flow rate of liquid into the first variable volume 716, which decreases the velocity of the liquid passing through the media holder 30. When the moveable sidewall 724 is linearly translated through the cavity 711 towards the first flow opening 712, the volumetric flow rate through the first flow opening 712 increases by the volumetric flow rate of liquid pushed out from the first variable volume 716 by the piston, which increases the velocity of liquid passing through the media holder 30.

[00107] As has been discussed above, the cyclic flow apparatus 700 can have a flow sensor 734 that is configured to sense a liquid flow velocity. The flow sensor 734 can be configured to sense the liquid flow velocity through the first flow opening 712 or elsewhere, as has been described above. The flow sensor 734 can be in communication with a user interface, a controller 740, or both a user interface and the controller 740. The controller 740 can be in operative communication with the actuator 720 as has been described above.

[00108] In various implementations of the currently disclosed technology, the system is configured to oscillate the first variable volume between a minimum possible volume of the first variable volume and another volume. Such a system configuration reduces the opportunity for contaminants suspended in the liquid to remain in the first variable volume and, therefore, ensures that contaminants are passed through the liquid flow circuit downstream of the first variable volume. Similarly, in embodiments where there is a complementary variable volume that is in liquid communication with the liquid flow circuit (such as depicted in FIGS. 3, 5, 6, 8 and 9), various implementations of systems disclosed herein are configured to oscillate the complementary variable volume between its minimum possible volume to another volume for the same reason. Because the minimum possible volume of the complementary variable volume results in the maximum possible volume of the first variable volume and the minimum possible volume of the first variable volume results in the maximum possible volume of the complementary variable volume, such systems are configured to oscillate the first variable volume (and the complementary variable volume) between its minimum and maximum possible volumes.

[00109] For example, in embodiments where the first variable volume and the complementary variable volume is defined by a cylinder and a piston translatably disposed in the cylinder (such as depicted in FIGS. 3, 5, 6, 7 and 9), the system is configured to oscillate the piston between the axial ends of the cylinder such that the minimum volume of the first variable volume approaches zero and the maximum volume of the first variable volume approaches the volume of the cylinder minus the volume of the piston, when the complementary variable volume approaches zero. As another example, in embodiments where the first variable volume is defined by a bladder and the complementary variable volume is defined by a casing (such as depicted in FIG. 8), the minimum possible volume of the first variable volume 616 may approach zero correlating with a maximum possible volume of the complementary variable volume 618 which is the volume of the casing minus the volume of the bladder 624 when the internal volume of the bladder 624 approaches zero. The minimum possible volume of the complementary variable volume 618 may approach zero corresponding to the bladder 624 expanding to its maximum possible volume, where the bladder 624 is expanded to substantially fill the outer casing 644.

[00110] In some implementations of the current technology, it may be desirable to use different cyclic apparatuses having alternate configurations in combination with a particular liquid flow circuit. For example, some testing conditions may benefit from a cyclic flow apparatus having a first variable volume that is relatively large, while other testing conditions may benefit from a cyclic flow apparatus having a first variable volume that is relatively small. As such, some systems consistent with the technology disclosed herein incorporate multiple cyclic apparatuses each coupled to the liquid flow circuit in parallel. Each cyclic apparatus can define differently sized first variable volumes (and complementary variable volumes, where relevant). Each cyclic apparatus can be consistent with those discussed herein. In such implementations, the system can incorporate a switch, such as an electronic or mechanical switch, through which each cyclic apparatus can be selected for operative engagement with the liquid flow circuit. In some such embodiments, liquid communication between each cyclic apparatus and the liquid flow circuit is mutually exclusive.

Statement of the Embodiments

Embodiment 1. A cyclic flow apparatus comprising: a housing having a first variable volume and a first flow opening extending to the first variable volume, the housing comprising a moveable sidewall defining the first variable volume, and the housing comprising a first conduit coupling structure about the first flow opening; and a linear actuator fixed to the moveable sidewall.

Embodiment 2. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1 and 3-12, wherein the moveable sidewall is a piston.

Embodiment 3. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1-2 and 4-12, wherein the linear actuator and the moveable sidewall are configured to change a flow velocity of a liquid in a liquid flow circuit.

Embodiment 4. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1-3 and 5-12, wherein the first conduit coupling structure is configured to sealably couple to a liquid flow circuit.

Embodiment 5. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1-4 and 6-12, wherein the piston has a media opening defining a flow path in fluid communication with the first variable volume.

Embodiment 6. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1-5 and 7-12, wherein the piston comprises a media coupling structure about the media opening. Embodiment 7. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1-6 and 8-12, wherein the piston forms a fluid seal with the housing across the first variable volume. Embodiment 8. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1-7 and 9-12, wherein the first flow opening is a flow inlet and flow outlet.

Embodiment 9. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1-8 and 10-12, wherein the first flow opening is a flow inlet and the first flow opening is not a flow outlet.

Embodiment 10. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1-9 and 11-12, the housing having a complementary variable volume, wherein the moveable sidewall defines the complementary variable volume.

Embodiment 11. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1-10 and 12, wherein the housing has a second flow opening extending to the complementary variable volume.

Embodiment 12. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1-11, wherein the cyclic flow apparatus is a retrofit device.

Embodiment 13. A cyclic flow apparatus comprising: a housing having a flow inlet, a flow outlet, and a cavity extending in an axial direction from the flow inlet to the flow outlet; and a piston disposed across the cavity and forming a seal with the housing, wherein the piston is linearly translatable in the axial direction along the cavity, the piston defining an axially extending media opening in fluid communication with the cavity. Embodiment 14. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 13 and 15-18, further comprising an actuator coupled to the piston.

Embodiment 15. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 13-14 and 16-18, wherein the actuator is configured to cyclically translate the piston between a first position and a second position in the cavity.

Embodiment 16. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 13-15 and 17-18, wherein the first position is towards a first end of the cavity and the second position is towards the second end of the cavity.

Embodiment 17. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 13-16 and 18, wherein the piston defines a media coupling structure about the media opening. Embodiment 18. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 13-17, wherein the cyclic flow apparatus is a retrofit device.

Embodiment 19. A cyclic flow apparatus comprising: a housing having a first variable volume defining a first flow opening and a conduit coupling structure about the first flow opening, wherein the conduit coupling structure is configured to detachably couple to a liquid flow circuit; and an actuator in operative communication with the housing, wherein the actuator is configured to cause the housing to cyclically accumulate liquid in the liquid flow circuit in the first variable volume and release liquid from the first variable volume to the liquid flow circuit.

Embodiment 20. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 19 and 21-27, further comprising a flow sensor positioned in the first flow opening and a controller coupled to the actuator, wherein the controller is in data communication with the flow sensor.

Embodiment 21. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 19-20 and 22-27, wherein the housing is a cylinder.

Embodiment 22. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 19-21 and 23-27, further comprising a piston translatably disposed in the cylinder, wherein the first variable volume is defined by the cylinder and piston. Embodiment 23. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 19-22 and 24-27, further comprising a complementary variable volume defined by the cylinder and the piston, wherein the cylinder defines a second flow opening extending to the complementary variable volume.

Embodiment 24. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 19-23 and 25-27, wherein the first variable volume is a bladder.

Embodiment 25. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 19-24 and 26-27, wherein the first flow opening is a flow inlet and flow outlet.

Embodiment 26. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 19-25 and 27, wherein the first flow opening is a flow inlet and the first flow opening is not a flow outlet.

Embodiment 27. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 19-26, wherein the cyclic flow apparatus is a retrofit device.

Embodiment 28. A cyclic flow apparatus comprising: a housing defining a first variable volume and a complementary variable volume, the housing comprising an outer casing having a fixed volume and a bladder disposed in the casing, wherein the bladder defines the first variable volume, a bladder inlet extending to the first variable volume, and a bladder outlet extending from the first variable volume, wherein the complementary variable volume is defined between the bladder and the casing and the casing defines a casing inlet and a casing outlet; a flow control valve operably coupled to the bladder outlet; and an actuator operably coupled to the flow control valve, wherein the actuator is configured to oscillate the flow control valve between a restricted position and an open position.

Embodiment 29. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 28 and 30-33, wherein the bladder inlet and the casing inlet are at opposite axial ends of the housing. Embodiment 30. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 28-29 and 31-33, further comprising a flow sensor positioned adjacent the bladder outlet and a controller coupled to the actuator, wherein the controller is in data communication with the flow sensor.

Embodiment 31. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 28-30 and 32-33, further comprising a first conduit coupling structure about the bladder outlet, a second conduit coupling structure about the casing outlet, a third conduit coupling structure about the bladder inlet, and a fourth conduit coupling structure about the casing inlet, wherein each conduit coupling structure is configured to be coupled to a liquid flow circuit.

Embodiment 32. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 28-31 and 33, wherein the actuator is configured to cause the bladder to cyclically accumulate and release liquid.

Embodiment 33. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 28-32, wherein the cyclic flow apparatus is a retrofit device.

Embodiment 34. A cyclic flow apparatus comprising: a housing defining a first variable volume and a first flow opening extending to the first variable volume, the housing comprising a moveable sidewall defining the first variable volume; an actuator operably coupled to the moveable sidewall; a flow sensor configured to sense a liquid flow velocity; and a controller in data communication with the flow sensor and in operative communication with the actuator, wherein the controller is configured to operate the actuator to define a liquid flow velocity relative to the flow sensor.

Embodiment 35. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 34 and 36-46, wherein the moveable sidewall comprises a piston.

Embodiment 36. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 34-35 and 37-46, wherein the piston defines an opening and a media coupling structure about the opening.

Embodiment 37. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 34-36 and 38-46, wherein the flow sensor is disposed on the piston.

Embodiment 38. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 34-37 and 39-46, wherein the flow sensor is disposed adjacent the first flow opening.

Embodiment 39. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 34-38 and 40-46, wherein the actuator is a linear actuator.

Embodiment 40. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 34-39 and 41-46, wherein the actuator is configured to operate a flow control valve.

Embodiment 41. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 34-40 and 42-46, the housing comprising a first conduit coupling structure about the first flow opening, wherein the first conduit coupling structure is configured to sealably couple to a liquid flow circuit. Embodiment 42. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 34-41 and 43-46, wherein the first flow opening is a flow inlet and flow outlet.

Embodiment 43. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 34-42 and 44-46, wherein the first flow opening is a flow inlet and the first flow opening is not a flow outlet.

Embodiment 44. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 34-43 and 45-46, the housing having a complementary variable volume, wherein the moveable sidewall defines the complementary variable volume.

Embodiment 45. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 34-44 and 46, wherein the housing has a second flow opening extending to the complementary variable volume.

Embodiment 46. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 34-45, wherein the cyclic flow apparatus is a retrofit device.

[00111] One or more of the components, such as the controllers, sensors, detectors, or systems, described herein may include a processor, such as a central processing unit (CPU), computer, logic array, or other device capable of directing data coming into or out of the component. The processor may include one or more computing devices having memory, processing, and communication hardware. The processor may include circuitry used to couple various components of the controller together or with other components operably coupled to the controller. The functions of the processor may be performed by hardware and/or as computer instructions on a nontransient computer readable storage medium.

[00112] The processor may include any one or more of a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), and/or equivalent discrete or integrated logic circuitry. In some examples, the processor may include multiple components, such as any combination of one or more microprocessors, one or more controllers, one or more DSPs, one or more ASICs, and/or one or more FPGAs, as well as other discrete or integrated logic circuitry. The functions attributed to the processor herein may be embodied as software, firmware, hardware, or any combination thereof.

[00113] In one or more embodiments, the functionality of the processor may be implemented using one or more computer programs using a computing apparatus, which may include one or more processors and/or memory. Program code and/or logic described herein may be applied to input data/information to perform functionality described herein and generate desired output data/information. The output data/information may be applied as an input to one or more other devices and/or methods as described herein or as would be applied in a known fashion. In view of the above, it will be readily apparent that the controller functionality as described herein may be implemented in any manner known to one skilled in the art. [00114] It should also be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the phrase “configured” describes a system, apparatus, or other structure that is constructed to perform a particular task or adopt a particular configuration. The word "configured" can be used interchangeably with similar words such as “arranged”, “constructed”, “manufactured”, and the like.

[00115] All publications and patent applications in this specification are indicative of the level of ordinary skill in the art to which this technology pertains. All publications and patent applications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated by reference. In the event that any inconsistency exists between the disclosure of the present application and the disclosure(s) of any document incorporated herein by reference, the disclosure of the present application shall govern.

[00116] This application is intended to cover adaptations or variations of the present subject matter. It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive, and the claims are not limited to the illustrative embodiments as set forth herein. For the purpose of the present description and of the appended claims, except where otherwise indicated, all numerical values are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about". Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically enumerated herein. In this context, therefore, a value recited herein encompasses deviations of ± 3 percent. Within this context, a recited value may be considered to include values that are within general standard error for the measurement of the property that the number modifies.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A cyclic flow apparatus comprising: a housing having a first variable volume and a first flow opening extending to the first variable volume, the housing comprising a moveable sidewall defining the first variable volume, and the housing comprising a first conduit coupling structure about the first flow opening; and a linear actuator fixed to the moveable sidewall.

2. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1 and 3-12, wherein the moveable sidewall is a piston.

3. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1-2 and 4-12, wherein the linear actuator and the moveable sidewall are configured to change a flow velocity of a liquid in a liquid flow circuit.

4. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1-3 and 5-12, wherein the first conduit coupling structure is configured to sealably couple to a liquid flow circuit.

5. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1-4 and 6-12, wherein the piston has a media opening defining a flow path in fluid communication with the first variable volume.

6. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1-5 and 7-12, wherein the piston comprises a media coupling structure about the media opening.

7. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1-6 and 8-12, wherein the piston forms a fluid seal with the housing across the first variable volume.

8. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1-7 and 9-12, wherein the first flow opening is a flow inlet and flow outlet.

9. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1-8 and 10-12, wherein the first flow opening is a flow inlet and the first flow opening is not a flow outlet.

10. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1-9 and 11-12, the housing having a complementary variable volume, wherein the moveable sidewall defines the complementary variable volume.

11. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1-10 and 12, wherein the housing has a second flow opening extending to the complementary variable volume.

12. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 1-11, wherein the cyclic flow apparatus is a retrofit device.

13. A cyclic flow apparatus comprising:

38 a housing having a flow inlet, a flow outlet, and a cavity extending in an axial direction from the flow inlet to the flow outlet; and a piston disposed across the cavity and forming a seal with the housing, wherein the piston is linearly translatable in the axial direction along the cavity, the piston defining an axially extending media opening in fluid communication with the cavity.

14. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 13 and 15-17, further comprising an actuator coupled to the piston.

15. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 13-14 and 16-17, wherein the actuator is configured to cyclically translate the piston between a first position and a second position in the cavity.

16. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 13-15 and 17, wherein the first position is towards a first end of the cavity and the second position is towards the second end of the cavity.

17. The cyclic flow apparatus of any one of claims 13-16, wherein the piston defines a media coupling structure about the media opening.

18. A cyclic flow apparatus comprising: a housing having a first variable volume defining a first flow opening and a conduit coupling structure about the first flow opening, wherein the conduit coupling structure is configured to detachably couple to a liquid flow circuit; and an actuator in operative communication with the housing, wherein the actuator is configured to cause the housing to cyclically accumulate liquid in the liquid flow circuit in the first variable volume and release liquid from the first variable volume to the liquid flow circuit.

19. A cyclic flow apparatus comprising: a housing defining a first variable volume and a complementary variable volume, the housing comprising an outer casing having a fixed volume and a bladder disposed in the casing, wherein the bladder defines the first variable volume, a bladder inlet extending to the first variable volume, and a bladder outlet extending from the first variable volume, wherein the complementary variable volume is defined between the bladder and the casing and the casing defines a casing inlet and a casing outlet; a flow control valve operably coupled to the bladder outlet; and an actuator operably coupled to the flow control valve, wherein the actuator is configured to oscillate the flow control valve between a restricted position and an open position.

39

20. A cyclic flow apparatus comprising: a housing defining a first variable volume and a first flow opening extending to the first variable volume, the housing comprising a moveable sidewall defining the first variable volume; an actuator operably coupled to the moveable sidewall; a flow sensor configured to sense a liquid flow velocity; and a controller in data communication with the flow sensor and in operative communication with the actuator, wherein the controller is configured to operate the actuator to define a liquid flow velocity relative to the flow sensor.

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