Patents by Inventor Timothy M. Woudenberg
Timothy M. Woudenberg has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
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Publication number: 20080299651Abstract: A thermal cycler for automatic performance of the polymerase chain reaction is provided. The thermal cycler comprises a heater control that provides close temperature control of the reaction.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 4, 2007Publication date: December 4, 2008Applicant: Applera CorporationInventors: John Girdner Atwood, Albert Carmelo Mossa, Lisa May Goven, Fenton Williams, Timothy M. Woudenberg, Marcel Margulies, Robert P. Ragusa, Richard Leath, Clive Miles
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Publication number: 20080153134Abstract: A microplate having a substrate with a hydrophobic surface and a plurality of hydrophilic reaction spots on the hydrophobic surface. Each of the plurality of reaction spots having an amphiphilic polymer and a polynucleotide conjugated to the amphiphilic polymer.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2006Publication date: June 26, 2008Inventors: Willy Wiyatno, Timothy Z. Liu, Timothy M. Woudenberg
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Patent number: 7381570Abstract: The invention is directed to a method and device for simultaneously testing a sample for the presence, absence, and/or amounts of one or more of a plurality of selected analytes. The invention includes, in one aspect, a device for detecting or quantitating a plurality of different analytes in a liquid sample. Each chamber may include an analyte-specific reagent effective to react with a selected analyte that may be present in the sample, and detection means for detecting the signal. Also disclosed are methods utilizing the device.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2006Date of Patent: June 3, 2008Assignee: Applera CorporationInventors: Timothy M. Woudenberg, Michael Albin, Reid B. Kowallis, Yefim Raysberg, Robert P. Ragusa, Emily S. Winn-Deen
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Patent number: 7381571Abstract: The invention is directed to a method and device for simultaneously testing a sample for the presence, absence, and/or amounts of one or more of a plurality of selected analytes. The invention includes, in one aspect, a device for detecting or quantitating a plurality of different analytes in a liquid sample. Each chamber may include an analyte-specific reagent effective to react with a selected analyte that may be present in the sample, and detection means for detecting the signal. Also disclosed are methods utilizing the device.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2006Date of Patent: June 3, 2008Assignee: Applera CorporationInventors: Timothy M. Woudenberg, Michael Albin, Reid B. Kowallis, Yefim Raysberg, Robert P. Ragusa, Emily S. Winn-Deen
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Patent number: 7381569Abstract: The invention is directed to a method and device for simultaneously testing a sample for the presence, absence, and/or amounts of one or more of a plurality of selected analytes. The invention includes, in one aspect, a device for detecting or quantitating a plurality of different analytes in a liquid sample. Each chamber may include an analyte-specific reagent effective to react with a selected analyte that may be present in the sample, and detection means for detecting the signal. Also disclosed are methods utilizing the device.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2006Date of Patent: June 3, 2008Assignee: Applera CorporationInventors: Timothy M. Woudenberg, Michael Albin, Reid B. Kowallis, Yefim Raysberg, Robert P. Raqusa, Emily S. Winn-Deen
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Patent number: 7357852Abstract: Bubble-free electrodes, electrochemical cells including bubble-free electrodes, analytical devices, and methods for preparing and using them are provided. The analytical devices each include at least one bubble-free electrode. Analytical devices that include an electrochemical cell and a sample containment device are also provided, wherein the electrochemical cell includes an anodic reservoir, a cathodic reservoir, an electrical connection between the anodic reservoir and the cathodic reservoir, and a first bubble-free electrode disposed within one of the anodic reservoir and the cathodic reservoir. A second electrode is disposed within the other reservoir and a power source is provided having a positive terminal that is normally in electrical contact with the first electrode, and a negative terminal that is normally in electrical contact with the second electrode.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2004Date of Patent: April 15, 2008Assignee: Applera CorporationInventors: Timothy M. Woudenberg, Zbigniew T. Bryning, Reid B. Kowallis
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Publication number: 20080066549Abstract: An embodiment relates generally to a method for analysis of a nucleic acid. The method includes providing for a resonant structure configured to couple with one or more fluorescently labeled nucleic acids and directing an excitation light from a source on the resonant structure. The method also includes generating plasmons on the surface of the resonant structure where the analyte is fixed at a point of energy concentration of the resonant structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 18, 2007Publication date: March 20, 2008Inventors: Mark F. OLDHAM, Eric S. Nordman, Charles R. Connell, Timothy M. Woudenberg
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Patent number: 7244622Abstract: The invention is directed to a method and device for simultaneously testing a sample for the presence, absence, and/or amounts of one or more of a plurality of selected analytes. The invention includes, in one aspect, a device for detecting or quantitating a plurality of different analytes in a liquid sample. Each chamber may include an analyte-specific reagent effective to react with a selected analyte that may be present in the sample, and detection means for detecting the signal. Also disclosed are methods utilizing the device.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2005Date of Patent: July 17, 2007Assignee: Applera CorporationInventors: Timothy M. Woudenberg, Michael Albin, Reid B. Kowallis, Yefim Raysberg, Robert P. Ragusa, Emily S. Winn-Deen
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Patent number: 7238517Abstract: An instrument for performing highly accurate PCR employing a sample block in microtiter tray format. The sample block has local balance and local symmetry. A three zone film heater controlled by a computer and ramp cooling solenoid valves also controlled by the computer for gating coolant flow through the block controls the block temperature. Constant bias cooling is used for small changes. Sample temperature is calculated instead of measured. A platen deforms plastic caps to apply a minimum acceptable threshold force for seating the tubes and thermally isolates them. A cover isolates the block. The control software includes diagnostics. An install program tests and characterizes the instrument. A new user interface is used. Disposable, multipiece plastic microtiter trays to give individual freedom to sample tubes are taught.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2003Date of Patent: July 3, 2007Assignee: Applera CorporationInventors: John Girdner Atwood, Albert Carmelo Mossa, Lisa May Goven, Fenton Williams, Timothy M. Woudenberg, Marcel Margulies, Robert P. Ragusa, Richard Leath, Clive Miles
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Patent number: 7211443Abstract: The invention is directed to a method and device for simultaneously testing a sample for the presence, absence, and/or amounts of one or more a plurality of selected analytes. The invention includes, in one aspect, a device for detecting or quantitating a plurality of different analytes in a liquid sample. The device includes a substrate which defines a sample-distribution network having (i) a sample inlet, (ii) one or more detection chambers, and (iii) channel means providing a dead-end fluid connection between each of the chambers and the inlet. Each chamber may include an analyte-specific reagent effective to react with a selected analyte that may be present in the sample, and detection means for detecting the signal. Also disclosed are methods utilizing the device.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2003Date of Patent: May 1, 2007Assignee: Applera CorporationInventors: Timothy M. Woudenberg, Michael Albin, Reid B. Kowalis, Yefim Raysberg, Robert P. Ragusa, Emily S. Winn-Deen
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Patent number: 7198900Abstract: The present invention generally relates to the detection of analytes, particularly biomolecules in samples. The invention also relates to compositions, methods, and kits for detecting the presence of analytes, typically in multiplex detection formats. The invention also relates to methods for determining the presence of at least one analyte in a sample, the methods employing employ single molecule detection techniques to individually detect at least one molecular complex or at least part of a molecular complex.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2003Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Applera CorporationInventors: Timothy M. Woudenberg, Dar Bahatt, Muhammad A. Sharaf, Timothy Z. Liu, Serguei Ermakov, Charles R. Connell, Jens J. Hyldig-Nielsen
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Patent number: 6890409Abstract: Bubble-free electrodes, electrochemical cells including bubble-free electrodes, analytical devices, and methods for preparing and using them are provided. The analytical devices each include at least one bubble-free electrode. Analytical devices that include an electrochemical cell and a sample containment device are also provided, wherein the electrochemical cell includes an anodic reservoir, a cathodic reservoir, an electrical connection between the anodic reservoir and the cathodic reservoir, and a first bubble-free electrode disposed within one of the anodic reservoir and the cathodic reservoir. A second electrode is disposed within the other reservoir and a power source is provided having a positive terminal that is normally in electrical contact with the first electrode, and a negative terminal that is normally in electrical contact with the second electrode.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2001Date of Patent: May 10, 2005Assignee: Applera CorporationInventors: Timothy M. Woudenberg, Zbigniew T. Bryning, Reid B. Kowallis
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Publication number: 20040248146Abstract: An instrument for performing highly accurate PCR employing a sample block in microtiter tray format. The sample block has local balance and local symmetry. A three zone film heater controlled by a computer and ramp cooling solenoid valves also controlled by the computer for gating coolant flow through the block controls the block temperature. Constant bias cooling is used for small changes. Sample temperature is calculated instead of measured. A platen deforms plastic caps to apply a minimum acceptable threshold force for seating the tubes and thermally isolates them. A cover isolates the block. The control software includes diagnostics. An install program tests and characterizes the instrument. A new user interface is used. Disposable, multipiece plastic microtiter trays to give individual freedom to sample tubes are taught.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2003Publication date: December 9, 2004Applicant: Applera CorporationInventors: John Girdner Atwood, Albert Carmelo Mossa, Lisa May Goven, Fenton Williams Brookfield, Marcel Margulies, Robert P. Ragusa, Richard Leath, Timothy M. Woudenberg, Clive Miles
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Publication number: 20040178074Abstract: The present invention provides, in one aspect, an apparatus or electrophoretic separation of analytes. In one aspect, the apparatus comprises a disc-shaped substrate defining (1) a central reservoir region, (2) a plurality of electrophoretic channels in fluid communication with, and emanating substantially radially from, the central reservoir region, the channels being coplanar with each other, and each channel having (i) a proximal end which is linked to the reservoir region, and (ii) a distal end, and preferably (3) for each channel, at least one chamber, and preferably three chambers, linked by a passageway in fluid communication with the distal end of that channel.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 8, 2003Publication date: September 16, 2004Applicant: Applera CorporationInventors: Timothy M. Woudenberg, Reid B. Kowallis
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Publication number: 20040086927Abstract: An instrument for performing highly accurate PCR employing a sample block in microtiter tray format. The sample block has local balance and local symmetry. A three zone film heater controlled by a computer and ramp cooling solenoid valves also controlled by the computer for gating coolant flow through the block controls the block temperature. Constant bias cooling is used for small changes. Sample temperature is calculated instead of measured. A platen deforms plastic caps to apply a minimum acceptable threshold force for seating the tubes and thermally isolates them. A cover isolates the block. The control software includes diagnostics. An install program tests and characterizes the instrument. A new user interface is used. Disposable, multipiece plastic microtiter trays to give individual freedom to sample tubes are taught.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2003Publication date: May 6, 2004Applicant: Applera Corporation, a DE corporationInventors: John Girdner Atwood, Albert Carmelo Mossa, Lisa May Goven, Fenton Williams, Timothy M. Woudenberg, Marcel Margulies, Robert P. Ragusa, Richard Leath, Clive Miles
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Patent number: 6660147Abstract: The present invention provides, in one aspect, an apparatus for electrophoretic separation of analytes. In one aspect, the apparatus comprises a disc-shaped substrate defining (1) a central reservoir region, (2) a plurality of electrophoretic channels in fluid communication with, and emanating substantially radially from, the central reservoir region, the channels being coplanar with each other, and each channel having (i) a proximal end which is linked to the reservoir region, and (ii) a distal end, and preferably (3) for each channel, at least one chamber, and preferably three chambers, linked by a passageway in fluid communication with the distal end of that channel.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2000Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Applera CorporationInventors: Timothy M. Woudenberg, Reid B. Kowallis
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Publication number: 20030075445Abstract: Bubble-free electrodes, electrochemical cells including bubble-free electrodes, analytical devices, and methods for preparing and using them are provided. The analytical devices each include at least one bubble-free electrode. Analytical devices that include an electrochemical cell and a sample containment device are also provided, wherein the electrochemical cell includes an anodic reservoir, a cathodic reservoir, an electrical connection between the anodic reservoir and the cathodic reservoir, and a first bubble-free electrode disposed within one of the anodic reservoir and the cathodic reservoir. A second electrode is disposed within the other reservoir and a power source is provided having a positive terminal that is normally in electrical contact with the first electrode, and a negative terminal that is normally in electrical contact with the second electrode.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 24, 2001Publication date: April 24, 2003Inventors: Timothy M. Woudenberg, Zbigniew T. Bryning, Reid B. Kowallis
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Publication number: 20020072112Abstract: An instrument for performing highly accurate PCR employing a sample block in microtiter tray format. The sample block has local balance and local symmetry. A three zone film heater controlled by a computer and ramp cooling solenoid valves also controlled by the computer for gating coolant flow through the block controls the block temperature. Constant bias cooling is used for small changes. Sample temperature is calculated instead of measured. A platen deforms plastic caps to apply a minimum acceptable threshold force for seating the tubes and thermally isolates them. A cover isolates the block. The control software includes diagnostics. An install program tests and characterizes the instrument. A new user interface is used. Disposable, multipiece plastic microtiter trays to give individual freedom to sample tubes are taught.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 11, 2000Publication date: June 13, 2002Inventors: JOHN GIRDNER ATWOOD, ALBERT CARMELO MOSSA, LISA MAY GOVEN, FENTON WILLIAMS, TIMOTHY M. WOUDENBERG, MARCEL MARGOULIES, ROBERT P. RAGUSA, RICHARD LEATH, CLIVE MILES
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Patent number: 6033880Abstract: Apparatus and method for performing a nucleic acid amplification reaction and preferably a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in a reaction mixture in at least one capillary tube. Several different embodiments are disclosed. One embodiment cycles a sample through a capillary tube loop passing through two thermostatted fluid baths. Another embodiment has the capillary tube routed alternatingly between two heat exchangers to that the sample makes only one pass through the tube. Other embodiments maintain the heat exchangers stationary and translate the samples between them. Still further embodiments maintain the samples stationary and either automatically translate or rotate the heat exchangers past the samples contained within the capillary tubes to perform the thermal cycles necessary for the amplification reaction.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 1998Date of Patent: March 7, 2000Assignee: The Perkin-Elmer CorporationInventors: Lawrence A. Haff, Enrico Picozza, Will Bloch, Robert Ragusa, Joseph DiCesare, David Tracy, Paul Saviano, Timothy M. Woudenberg, Richard W. Noreiks
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Patent number: 6015674Abstract: An apparatus is provided which includes a sample holder for holding a reaction chamber which includes an optical interface, a fiber optic cable for delivering an excitation beam to a sample housed within the reaction chamber and for receiving light emitted by the sample, and a lens co-axially disposed with the fiber optic cable and positioned outside the reaction chamber for focusing the excitation beam through the optical interface and within a volume of the sample and for collecting and transmitting to the fiber optic cable light emitted within the volume of the sample.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 1998Date of Patent: January 18, 2000Assignee: Perkin-Elmer Corporation Applied Biosystems DivisionInventors: Timothy M. Woudenberg, Kevin S. Bodner, Charles R. Connell, John Shigeura, David H. Tracy, Eugene F. Young